Cefpodoxime

Cefpodoxime is an antibiotic from the group of cephalosporins used to treat a number of bacterial infections.

Use and indications

Cefpodoxime is a third-generation oral cephalosporin antibiotic with activity against most Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Cefpodoxime proxetil, a salt of the active ingredient, is commonly used to treat acute otitis media, pharyngitis and sinusitis. Other indications include deep respiratory tract infections (acute bacterial bronchitis, acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, bacterial pneumonia), uncomplicated urinary tract infections (uncomplicated pyelonephritis, cystitis, specific urethral inflammation), skin and soft tissue infections, and gonorrhea. Cefpodoxime is usually taken orally in the form of tablets or oral suspensions. The dose is usually 100 or 200 mg per tablet.

Pharmacodynamics and mechanism of action

Cefpodoxime has been shown to be effective against most gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, with the exception of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, enterococci, and Bacteroides fragilis.

Cephalosporins such as cefpodoxime, like other beta-lactam antibiotics, interfere with the synthesis of the peptidoglycan layer that forms the bacterial cell wall. The peptidoglycan layer is important for the structural integrity of the cell wall. The final transpeptidation step in peptidoglycan synthesis is facilitated by penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). PBPs bind to muropeptides (peptidoglycan precursors) to cross-link the peptidoglycan. Beta-lactam antibiotics irreversibly inhibit PBP cross-linking of peptidoglycan, thereby killing the bacteria.

Pharmacokinetics

Cefpodoxime proxetil is a prodrug that is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is not converted to its active metabolite, cefpodoxime. Following oral administration of cefpodoxime proxetil, approximately 50% of the administered dose is absorbed systemically. Over the recommended dosage range. Half-life is approximately 3 hours.

Drug Interactions

Cefpodoxime may damage the kidneys, especially if certain drugs are taken. These include:

• Probenecid
• Antacids

Contraindications

Cefpodoxime should not be taken if you are allergic to cefpodoxime or other beta-lactams.

Side effects

Cefpodoxime may cause serious side effects. These include:

• severe abdominal pain
• watery or bloody diarrhea
• fever
• chills
• sore throat
• sores in the mouth
• swollen glands
• joint pain
• seizures
• pain in the upper abdomen
• loss of appetite
• dark urine
• clay-colored stools
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

Common side effects of cefpodoxime may include:

• Diarrhea
• nausea
• stomach pain
• headache
• itching or discharge from the vagina
• diaper rash in infants

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

It should be taken during pregnancy only after weighing the risk-benefit ratio.

Cefpodoxime passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding should therefore be interrupted during use.