Indications

Cefixime is indicated in the treatment of the following infections when caused by the susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms:
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections caused by Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis.
Otitis Media caused by Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis and Streptococcus pyogenes.
Pharyngitis and tonsillitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.
Acute bronchitis and acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae.
Uncomplicated gonorrhoea (cervical/urethral) caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
 

Pharmacology

Cefixime is a third generation semisynthetic cephalosporin antibiotic for oral administration. It is bactericidal against a broad spectrum of gram positive and gram negative bacteria at easily achievable plasma concentrations. It kills bacteria by interfering in the synthesis of bacterial cell wall. It is highly stable in the presence of Beta-lactamase enzyme. As a result, many organisms resistant to penicillins and some cephalsporins due to the presence of beta-lactamases, may be susceptible to Cefixime. Absorption of it is about 40% to 50% whether administered with or without food.
 

Dosage

The usual course of treatment is 7 days. This may be continued for up to 14 days depending on the severity of the infection.

Adult and children over 12 years: The recommended adult dose is 200-400 mg (1 to 2 capsules) daily, given either as a single dose or in two divided doses. For the treatment of uncomplicated cervical/urethral gonococcal infections, a single oral dose of Cefixime 400 mg is recommended.

Children (6 month or older): Usually 8 mg/kg/day given as a single dose or in two divided doses or may be given as following
½-1 year: 75 mg daily.
1-4 years: 100 mg daily.
5-10 years: 200 mg daily.
11-12 years: 300 mg daily
In typhoid fever, dosage should be 10 mg/kg/day for 14 days.
Children (under 6 month): The safety and efficacy of Cefixime has not been established in children aged less than 6 months.