Cefpodoxime is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections. It belongs to a group of antibiotics called cephalosporins, which work by stopping bacteria from building the cell wall they need to survive.
Cefpodoxime is available as cefpodoxime proxetil, which is the oral form that turns into active cefpodoxime after it is absorbed by the body. It may be prescribed as tablets or as an oral suspension, which is a liquid form often used for children or people who have trouble swallowing tablets.
Cefpodoxime does not work against viral infections, such as colds or the flu. It should only be used when prescribed by a health care provider, as the dose and length of treatment depend on the type of infection, age, weight, kidney function, and the form being used.
Indications for use
Cefpodoxime may be indicated for bacterial infections caused by germs that are sensitive to this antibiotic.
FDA-approved uses include:
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Throat and tonsil infections, such as pharyngitis or tonsillitis
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Acute bacterial sinusitis
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Community-acquired pneumonia
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Acute worsening of chronic bronchitis
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Uncomplicated urinary tract infections
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Uncomplicated gonorrhea
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Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections
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Acute middle ear infection in children, also called acute otitis media
Cefpodoxime may not be the first-choice antibiotic for every infection. The decision to use it can depend on the suspected bacteria, local resistance patterns, culture results, allergies, and other health conditions.
How to take it
Cefpodoxime should be taken exactly as prescribed. The dose, frequency, and duration vary depending on the infection being treated and whether the medicine is being used by an adult or child.
Available forms
Cefpodoxime is commonly available as:
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Tablets
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Oral suspension
The tablet is usually taken by mouth with food. The oral suspension is taken by mouth after the bottle has been shaken well to mix the medicine evenly.
Cefpodoxime should be taken for the full prescribed treatment course, even if symptoms improve earlier. Stopping antibiotics too soon can allow bacteria to keep growing and may make the infection harder to treat.
Adult dosing
Common adult dosing may include:
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Pharyngitis or tonsillitis: 100 mg every 12 hours for 5 to 10 days
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Acute bacterial sinusitis: 200 mg every 12 hours for 10 days
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Community-acquired pneumonia: 200 mg every 12 hours for 14 days
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Acute worsening of chronic bronchitis: 200 mg every 12 hours for 10 days
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Uncomplicated urinary tract infection: 100 mg every 12 hours for 7 days
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Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infection: 400 mg every 12 hours for 7 to 14 days
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Uncomplicated gonorrhea: a single 200 mg dose
These doses are general prescribing information and may be adjusted by a health care provider.
Pediatric dosing
In children, cefpodoxime dosing is usually based on body weight. Common pediatric dosing may include:
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Acute middle ear infection: 5 mg/kg every 12 hours for 5 days
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Pharyngitis or tonsillitis: 5 mg/kg every 12 hours for 5 to 10 days
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Acute bacterial sinusitis: 5 mg/kg every 12 hours for 10 days
A maximum dose per dose may apply, depending on the infection and the child’s weight. Pediatric doses should always be measured carefully, especially when using the oral suspension.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it is generally taken as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose is skipped and the regular schedule is continued. Two doses should not be taken at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
Possible side effects
Cefpodoxime can cause side effects, although not everyone has them. The most common side effects affect the stomach and intestines, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
Other possible side effects include headache, rash, itching, vaginal yeast infection, and changes in blood test results.
Serious diarrhea can occur during or after antibiotic treatment. This may be related to an overgrowth of bacteria called Clostridioides difficile, also known as C. difficile. Severe or ongoing diarrhea, diarrhea with blood, fever, or strong stomach cramps should be assessed by a health care provider.
Allergic reactions can also occur. Signs may include hives, swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, severe dizziness, or a widespread rash. These symptoms require urgent medical care.
Contraindications for use
Cefpodoxime is contraindicated in people with a known allergy to cefpodoxime or other cephalosporin antibiotics.
It should be used with caution in people who have had a serious allergic reaction to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics, as cross-reactions can occur. A health care provider should review any history of antibiotic allergy before prescribing cefpodoxime.
Cefpodoxime should also be used with caution in people with kidney disease, as reduced kidney function may require a lower dose or a longer time between doses. In some cases, the dose interval may be extended to every 24 hours when kidney function is significantly reduced.
Caution is also recommended for people with a history of colitis, severe antibiotic-associated diarrhea, C. difficile-associated diarrhea, or multiple medication allergies.
Cefpodoxime may interact with some medicines. Antacids and medicines that reduce stomach acid, such as H2 blockers, can reduce how much cefpodoxime is absorbed. Probenecid can increase cefpodoxime levels in the blood by reducing its removal through the kidneys.
Before cefpodoxime is used, a health care provider should know about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, and antacids being taken.