Cefpodoxime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic prescribed to treat a wide range of bacterial infections by stopping the growth of bacteria. It is ineffective against viral infections like colds or the flu.
What It Treats
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Respiratory infections: Community-acquired pneumonia, acute bronchitis exacerbations, acute maxillary sinusitis, pharyngitis, and tonsillitis.
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Other bacterial infections: Acute otitis media (middle ear infection in children), uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs), and uncomplicated gonococcal infections
Dosage and Administration
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Adults and adolescents (12+ years): Typically taken as 100 mg to 400 mg every 12 hours depending on the specific infection. Tablets should be taken with food to enhance absorption.
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Infants and children (2 months to 12 years): Typically dosed at 10 mg/kg/day divided into two doses every 12 hours (up to maximum adult limits). The oral suspension can be taken with or without food.
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Renal adjustments: Patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) require extended dosing intervals (every 24 hours).
Common and Serious Side Effects
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Common side effects: Diarrhea or loose stools, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, and vaginal fungal infections.
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Serious warnings: Can cause severe Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (watery or bloody stools with cramps or fever), severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis, skin rashes like Stevens-Johnson syndrome), and secondary fungal or bacterial overgrowths with prolonged use.
Drug Interactions
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Antacids and H2 blockers: High doses of antacids (sodium bicarbonate, aluminum hydroxide) or H2 receptor antagonists significantly reduce the absorption and peak plasma levels of cefpodoxime.
• • Probenecid: Inhibits renal excretion of the drug, increasing its overall blood concentration (AUC).
