Cefpodoxime: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Buying Tips
Cefpodoxime is an oral third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat common infections like bronchitis, sinusitis, ear infections, skin infections, and some urinary tract infections. The version you'll see is usually cefpodoxime proxetil - a form that the body converts into the active drug. It comes as tablets and liquid suspension.
How it works:
Cefpodoxime kills bacteria by stopping them from building cell walls. That makes it effective against many strains of streptococci, haemophilus, and certain enteric gram-negative bacteria. It will not work for viral infections such as colds or most sore throats.
Typical dosing:
Adults often take 200-400 mg twice daily for most infections. Children get weight-based doses - the liquid form makes this easier. Always follow your prescriber's directions; durations vary from 5 to 14 days depending on the infection and clinical response.
Practical tips for taking it: Take cefpodoxime with food to improve absorption of the proxetil form. If you use antacids or H2 blockers, space them at least two hours apart because they can reduce uptake. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember but skip it if the next dose is near; do not double up.
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and mild abdominal pain. If you develop severe diarrhea, bloody stools, or a persistent fever, contact your doctor right away - these can be signs of C. difficile infection. Allergic reactions are possible; if you experience hives, swelling, or breathing difficulty, seek emergency care. People with a history of severe penicillin allergy should avoid cefpodoxime unless their doctor says it's safe.
Special considerations: Adjustments are often required for people with reduced kidney function. Pregnant and breastfeeding patients should check with their clinician - many cephalosporins are considered acceptable in pregnancy, but individual circumstances matter. For recurrent or complicated infections, your doctor may request a culture and sensitivity test to confirm that cefpodoxime will work.
Buying and safety: Get cefpodoxime from legitimate sources only - your GP, NHS services, or pharmacies that require a valid prescription. If ordering online, use registered pharmacies, check reviews, and confirm they ask for a prescription. Avoid sites selling antibiotics without any prescription - the risk of poor-quality or incorrect medicine is real.
When to call a doctor: If symptoms don't improve within 48-72 hours, if side effects are severe, or if new symptoms such as rash or swelling occur, contact your healthcare provider. Complete the full prescribed course unless advised otherwise - stopping early can let the infection return and breed resistance.
For parents: pediatric dosing is weight-based, so bring a measured dosing device and confirm dose with your pharmacist. Store tablets and suspension away from heat and children, and follow the label about refrigeration. Never keep leftover antibiotics for later use; return or dispose of them per local guidance. Ask your pharmacist about interactions with other drugs you take. Use antibiotics only when prescribed to avoid resistance and protect future treatment options. Keep an allergy card handy.
