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.
Dosage & Administration:
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
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.
Side Effects:
The drug is generally well tolerated. The most frequent side effects are diarrhoea and stool changes; that have been more commonly associated with higher doses. Other side effects are nausea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, vomiting, flatulence, headache and dizziness. Allergies in the form of rash, pruritus, urticaria, drug fever and arthralgia have been reported. These reactions usually subsided upon dicontinuation of therapy.