Cefixime
DNX0119.HTM Cefixime (By mouth)
Cefixime (sef-IX-eem)
Treats bacterial infections. This medicine is a cephalosporin antibiotic.
Brand Name(s):Suprax
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to cephalosporin medicine such as Keflex®, Ceclor®, or Velosef®.
How to Use This Medicine:
Liquid, Tablet
- Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
- You may take your medicine with food or milk to avoid stomach upset.
- Shake the oral liquid before each use. Measure the liquid with a measuring spoon or medicine cup.
- Keep taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to stop, even if you feel better. If you stop taking this medicine too soon, your infection may come back.
If a dose is missed:
- Cefixime works best if a constant amount is in your system; try not to miss a dose.
- Take your medicine as soon as you remember that you have missed your dose.
- If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
- You should not use two doses at one time.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
- Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat or direct light.
- Keep the oral liquid at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused liquid that is more than 14 days old.
- Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking birth control pills or probenecid (Benemid®, ColBENEMID®) while taking cefixime.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
- Before taking this medicine, let your doctor know if you have ever had an allergic reaction to penicillin medicines.
- Cefixime may cause incorrect results with some urine sugar tests used by patients with diabetes.
- Be sure to tell your doctor if you have had kidney problems or stomach problems such as colitis.
- If you have severe diarrhea while taking cefixime, check with your doctor before taking medicine to stop the diarrhea.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Rash, hives, or blistering of the skin
- Swelling
- Wheezing or trouble breathing
- Severe diarrhea (watery or bloody)
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Mild diarrhea
- Nausea, upset stomach
- Sore mouth or tongue
- Vaginal itching or discharge
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.