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  • Writer's pictureShruti GOCHHWAL

All you should know about the antibiotic cefixime

Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin with a broad spectrum of activity against gram-positive as well as negative aerobic bacteria. Cefixime is active against gram-negative bacteria than the first- and second-generation cephalosporins. The in vitro activity of cefotaxime against S aureus, even penicillin-resistant strains, is excellent. Of course, methicillin- and Staphylococcus epidermidis-resistant strains are less susceptible. The in vitro activity of cefotaxime against anaerobic bacteria merits special mention.

Most of the Bacteroides strains, especially Bacteroides frugilis, are susceptible. Although most Clostridium perfringens strains are susceptible, Clostridium difficile strains are resistant. Cefotaxime is very active against the varied types of Veillonellu, Corynebucterium, propionibacteria, peptococcus, peptostreptococcus, and bifidobacteria. With regard to its in vivo activity, cefotaxime has proven its effectiveness in systemic infections in animal models and in infections of various organs or systems, including the lower respiratory tract, urinary tract, and central nervous system.

An increase in the activity of leukocytes, neutrophils, and macrophages, as well as an increase in the production of interleukin-1, has been reported with the use of cefotaxime.

In terms of clinical efficacy, monotherapy with cefotaxime was superior to different combinations of antimicrobial agents, especially in elderly patients. Cefotaxime also

has been shown to have a positive effect in elderly patients with pneumonia caused by gram-negative or gram-positive pathogens.

Cefixime is used as an antimicrobial agent for the initial treatment of lower respiratory tract infections in the critical care setting because of its broad spectrum against bacteria. This broad-spectrum coverage provides an opportunity for invasive procedures tie, fiberoptic bronchoscopy, bronchoalveolar lavage, lung biopsy) with less risk of infection and special

culture techniques to confirm the bacteria involved.” If the microorganism is identified, the clinician may then add a new antibiotic for synergistic action. Also, those physicians who believe in “empirical” treatment as the best form of antibiotic administration can prescribe treatment covering a wide variety of bacteria, without performing invasive procedures.

Indications of cefixime 200mg

cefixime antibiotic tab


Urinary Tract Infections

Cefixime is given to patients with urinary tract infection which is caused by bacterias.

Otitis Media

otitis media is caused by susceptible isolates of Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pyogenes. Cefixime works in such cases.

Inflammation of pharynx and tonsils

This is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.

Chronic Bronchitis

chronic bronchitis is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae. Cefixime can be given in such patients.

Gonorrhea

Cefixime is an antibiotic given for bacterial infections. It is effective against gonorrhoea.

In any case resistance against the antibiotic should be avoided. The dose should be taken as per the prescription. Proper cultures for all bacteria causing the particular disease. This antibiotic should be used in those cases where it is proven to be effective.

What are side effects of cefixime?

Common side effects of cefixime include:

  1. Loose motions

  2. Feeling nauseated

  3. Feel less hungry

  4. Flatulence

  5. Head pain

  6. Feeling dizzy

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