Cefixime
1 medicine
Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used for urinary, respiratory, and ear infections. It must not be used by anyone with a history of severe allergic reaction to penicillins or cephalosporins.
Key facts
- Cefixime (sold as Cefixime and under various brand names) is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic with a long enough action to allow once-daily dosing.
- It is taken once a day, usually for 7 to 14 days depending on the infection, with or without food.
- Do not take cefixime if you have had a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis or hives, to a penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotic.
- Seek urgent care for facial or throat swelling, severe watery or bloody diarrhea, or a widespread rash.
What cefixime treats
Cefixime treats urinary tract infections, middle-ear infections, throat infections, and acute bronchitis caused by susceptible bacteria. It has weak activity against Staphylococcus aureus, so it is not used for staph skin infections. It does not treat colds, flu, or other viral illnesses.
How cefixime works
Cefixime blocks the proteins susceptible bacteria need to build their outer cell wall. Without a functioning wall the bacteria cannot survive internal pressure, so they break apart and die, letting your immune system clear the remaining infection.
Before you take it
- Avoid cefixime if you have a history of severe penicillin or cephalosporin allergy.
- Tell your prescriber about kidney disease, since the dose may need adjusting.
- Iron supplements and some antacids can reduce absorption; space them apart from your cefixime dose.
- Cefixime can reduce the reliability of hormonal birth control; use a backup method during treatment.
Side effects
Common effects include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and mild rash.
Stop and seek urgent medical care for any of these:
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or hives with difficulty breathing.
- Severe or bloody diarrhea, which can signal a serious gut infection (C. difficile colitis).
- Unusual bruising or bleeding, or a widespread blistering rash.
Safety essentials
- Never take cefixime if you have had a severe reaction to any penicillin or cephalosporin; the cross-reaction risk makes this an absolute contraindication.
- Watery or bloody diarrhea can appear during treatment or for weeks afterward and needs prompt medical assessment, not an over-the-counter remedy.
- Finish the full course even once you feel better, and tell your prescriber about kidney problems so your dose can be adjusted.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.