Cefpodoxime is a prescription medication used to treat various bacterial infections. It belongs to the class of drugs known as third-generation cephalosporin antibiotics. Cefpodoxime works by inhibiting the growth and spread of bacteria, helping the body's immune system fight off the infection.

Cefpodoxime is available in its generic form or under the brand name Vantin.

This medication can only be obtained with a prescription, meaning you must have a written prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to purchase it.

Cefpodoxime is primarily prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms. These infections may include:

• Respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia
  
• Ear infections
  
• Sinus infections
  
• Skin and soft tissue infections
  
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  
• Throat infections, including strep throat
  
  

Cefpodoxime is ineffective against viral infections, such as the common cold or the flu.

The use of cefpodoxime may lead to adverse side effects.

Mild side effects associated with cefpodoxime may include:

• Nausea
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Headache
  
• Stomach pain or discomfort
  
• Gas or bloating
  
• Vaginal itching or discharge
  
  

More severe side effects are rare but may include:
Severe diarrhea (possibly with blood or mucus)
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Skin rash
Hives
Swelling in the face, throat, hands, feet, or ankles
Sore throat
Fever
Wheezing
Seizures
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

If you experience any of these side effects or have concerns about them, consult your healthcare provider.

Before starting cefpodoxime, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with cefpodoxime.

Specifically, tell your healthcare provider if you are allergic to cephalosporin antibiotics or penicillin antibiotics.

If you have a history of kidney disease, liver disease, or gastrointestinal disease (especially colitis), inform your healthcare provider, as cefpodoxime may need to be used cautiously or adjusted in dosage.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your health care provider before using cefpodoxime to weigh the potential risks and benefits.

The recommended dosing of cefpodoxime may vary depending on the type and severity of the infection and the patient’s age and body weight. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for your situation.

Typically, the cefpodoxime tablet is taken orally with food, while the suspension form can be taken with or without food. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as your healthcare provider prescribes, even if your symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

Avoid taking antacids and medications for heartburn or GERD (proton pump inhibitors and H2-blockers) within 2 hours of cefpodoxime as this can decrease the effectiveness.

Do not discontinue or increase your cefpodoxime dosage without consulting your doctor first.

Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled amount. Do not take a double dose of cefpodoxime.

Cefpodoxime is currently only available via prescription. A licensed healthcare provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write you a prescription during a virtual or in-person visit. You can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether cefpodoxime is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment. Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances.

Providers on Sesame can assist you with obtaining a prescription for cefpodoxime, which you can pick up at a pharmacy near you, often on the same day. Don't wait to get your prescription filled—talk to a provider on Sesame today and streamline the process for convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Please remember that the decision to prescribe cefpodoxime is at the discretion of your health care provider.