Cefixime: What It Treats, How to Take It, and Safety Tips

Cefixime is an oral antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections like ear infections, bronchitis, and some urinary tract infections. It belongs to the cephalosporin class, which kills bacteria by stopping their cell wall from forming. If a doctor prescribes cefixime, follow directions exactly—antibiotics work best when taken on schedule and finished even if you feel better.

How cefixime works and when doctors pick it: Cefixime targets common bacteria that cause respiratory and urinary infections. Doctors often choose it when patients are allergic to penicillin or when an infection is known to respond to cephalosporins. It’s not effective for viral illnesses like the common cold or flu.

Dosage, common side effects, and important warnings

Adult doses commonly range from 200 mg to 400 mg once daily or split into two doses, depending on the infection. Children’s doses are calculated by weight. Don’t double up if you miss one dose—take the next scheduled dose and tell your doctor if you miss several. Usual course lengths are 5–14 days, based on the infection and doctor’s advice.

Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, and rash. Most people tolerate cefixime well, but if you notice severe diarrhea, bloody stools, persistent vomiting, high fever, or signs of an allergic reaction (hives, swelling, difficulty breathing), stop and seek medical care. Cefixime can also alter gut bacteria and, rarely, cause a severe condition called C. difficile–associated diarrhea.

Interactions, precautions, and safe use tips

Tell your doctor about kidney problems, a history of severe allergic reactions, or if you take blood thinners like warfarin—cefioxime can affect clotting in rare cases. Probiotics or yogurt can help reduce mild diarrhea, but check with your provider before combining supplements. Avoid alcohol if it worsens side effects, and store the medicine in a cool, dry place.

Want to buy cefixime online? Use only licensed pharmacies that require a prescription. Look for clear contact details, a licensed pharmacist, and secure payment. Beware of offers that sell antibiotics without a prescription—those may be unsafe or counterfeit. If you choose an online pharmacy, keep the original packaging and report any pills that look different from what you expect.

Finally, finish the full course and follow up if symptoms don’t improve within 48–72 hours. If you get frequent infections or repeated antibiotic courses, ask your clinician about testing to identify the best antibiotic for your bacteria. That reduces resistance and protects future treatment options.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding deserve a quick mention: tell your prescriber if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding. Cefixime is sometimes used in pregnancy when benefit outweighs risk, but your doctor will decide. If you have a penicillin allergy, mention it—most people who react to penicillin tolerate cephalosporins, but serious cross-reactions can occur. Generic cefixime is widely available and often cheaper than brand names, so ask your pharmacist about costs. Expect some improvement within 48–72 hours for many bacterial infections; if fever or pain stays or gets worse, call back. Dispose of leftover antibiotics safely at a take-back site—never share them with others. Bring a list of past antibiotic reactions to your regular appointments.