Cefixime
Cefixime is a beta-lactam antibacterial. Formulation, species and infection site determine its clinical use.
Group
Third-generation oral cephalosporin
Mechanism of Action
Binds penicillin-binding proteins and disrupts bacterial cell-wall synthesis.
Dose Rates
Dogs
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bacterial infections | 10 mg/kg | PO | Every 12 h | |
| Urinary tract infection | 5 mg/kg | PO | Every 12–24 h | |
| Infectious endocarditis | 10 mg/kg | PO | Every 12 h | Historical alternative when resistance or contraindications prevent fluoroquinolone/aminoglycoside use; confirm susceptibility. |
| Respiratory or systemic bacterial infection | 12.5 mg/kg | PO | Every 12 h | Up to 14 days; Historical course 7–14 days; adapt to infection site and response. |
Cats
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bacterial infections | 10 mg/kg | PO | Every 12 h | |
| Urinary tract infection | 5 mg/kg | PO | Every 12–24 h | |
| Bacterial infections | 5–12.5 mg/kg | PO | Every 12 h |
Indications
- Susceptible bacterial and urinary infections
Contraindications
- Cephalosporin hypersensitivity; assess prior severe beta-lactam allergy.
- Significant renal dysfunction may require adjustment; use cautiously with seizure disorders.
Interactions
- Avoid mixing with other drugs in the same vial or syringe unless compatibility is established.
Adverse effects
- Hypersensitivity
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Injection-site reactions with parenteral products
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cefixime 400 mg tablet | Tablet | 400 mg / tablet | PO |
| Cefixime 20 mg/mL oral liquid | Oral Liquid | 20 mg / mL | PO |
| Cefixime 40 mg/mL oral liquid | Oral Liquid | 40 mg / mL | PO |
| Cefiget 200 mg tablet Getz Pharma (Pvt.) Limited Cefixime trihydrate expressed as cefixime equivalents. | Tablet | 200 mg / tablet | PO |
| Cefiget 400 mg capsule Getz Pharma (Pvt.) Limited Cefixime trihydrate expressed as cefixime equivalents. | Capsule | 400 mg / capsule | PO |
| Cefiget suspension 100 mg/5 mL Getz Pharma (Pvt.) Limited Final reconstituted strength expressed as cefixime equivalents. | Oral Liquid | 100 mg / 5 mL | PO |
| Cefiget DS suspension 200 mg/5 mL Getz Pharma (Pvt.) Limited Final reconstituted strength expressed as cefixime equivalents. | Oral Liquid | 200 mg / 5 mL | PO |
Monitoring and Administration
Choose treatment using organism identity, infection site and susceptibility testing. Reassess clinical response and renal function where impaired clearance may increase exposure.
Food-animal authorization and withdrawal periods depend on the exact formulation, species, regimen and jurisdiction; do not transfer foreign approvals or residue intervals to another product.
Activity against staphylococci is weaker than cefpodoxime. The source statement that cefixime is unavailable is not generalized: official regional product information confirms oral preparations.
Reconstituted suspension may be kept at room temperature or refrigerated according to the product described, but discard after 14 days.