Cefixime: what it treats and how to use it safely

Cefixime is an oral antibiotic doctors reach for when common infections don’t respond to milder meds. It’s a third‑generation cephalosporin used for ear infections, strep throat, bronchitis, some urinary tract infections, and certain cases of pneumonia. It’s not a cure‑all — it only works on bacteria, not viruses.

How to take cefixime

Take cefixime exactly as your prescriber directs. Adult dosing is often 400 mg once daily or 200 mg twice daily; kids get weight‑based doses. The drug comes as tablets and a liquid suspension — shake the bottle and measure doses with the supplied spoon. You can take it with or without food, but keeping a routine helps you remember. Finish the full course even if you feel better, or the infection can come back resistant.

Missed a dose? Take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s near the next dose. Don’t double up to catch up. Store tablets at room temperature and the suspension in the fridge if the label says so.

Side effects and warnings

Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, and mild rash. Most people tolerate cefixime fine, but watch for signs of a serious allergic reaction — hives, swelling of face or throat, trouble breathing — and get emergency care if that happens. Severe diarrhea that won’t stop or contains blood could signal C. difficile infection; call your doctor right away.

If you have a history of severe allergy to penicillin or other cephalosporins, tell your prescriber. Cross‑reactions are uncommon but possible. People with kidney problems may need a lower dose because the drug is cleared by the kidneys.

Certain medicines can change how cefixime works. Probenecid can raise cefixime levels. Antacids or supplements with aluminum or magnesium might reduce absorption, so separate them by a couple of hours when possible. If you take blood thinners, mention it — antibiotics can sometimes affect clotting tests or increase bleeding risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: many clinicians use cefixime when needed, but always check with your provider to weigh benefits and risks for you and the baby.

Thinking of buying cefixime online? Only use pharmacies that require a prescription and show clear contact and licensing info. Counterfeit antibiotics and wrong doses are real risks. Never self‑treat serious infections — a short clinic visit or telehealth consult can prevent complications.

When to call your doctor: fever that persists, worsening symptoms after 48–72 hours on therapy, new rash, severe diarrhea, or signs of an allergic reaction. Practical tip: keep a list of your current meds and allergies handy for any visit — it speeds up safe prescribing.

Cefixime is a useful oral antibiotic when used correctly. Ask questions, follow the full course, and reach out to your healthcare provider if anything feels off. That keeps treatment effective and lowers the chance of resistance.