Cefpodoxime Tablets

Cefpodoxime (specifically, cefpodoxime proxetil) is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic.
It’s given orally (by mouth), either as tablets or as a suspension (liquid) for pediatric use.
Cefpodoxime proxetil is a prodrug — after absorption, it is converted into the active metabolite, cefpodoxime.

How Does It Work? (Mechanism of Action)

Cefpodoxime is bactericidal — it kills bacteria by inhibiting cell wall synthesis.
It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) (especially PBP-3) on bacteria, which prevents the final cross-linking step in peptidoglycan synthesis (an essential component of bacterial cell walls).
It’s relatively stable against certain beta-lactamase enzymes, which gives it a broader spectrum.

Absorption: Oral bioavailability is about 50%, and food increases its absorption.
Protein binding: ~ 22–33% in serum.
Half-life: Around 2.1 to 2.8 hours in healthy individuals.
Excretion: A significant portion is excreted unchanged in urine.
In renal impairment, adjustments may be needed.

Cefpodoxime is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including:

Adult dosing (oral) varies depending on infection:
- For pharyngitis/tonsillitis: ~ 100 mg every 12 hours for 5–10 days per MIMS India.
- For skin infections: up to 400 mg every 12 hours for 7–14 days.
- For sinusitis: 200 mg every 12 hours (in some regimens).
Pediatric dosing: often weight-based (for example, 4–5 mg/kg every 12 hours in children) per MIMS.

Clostridium difficile–associated diarrhea (CDAD) / pseudomembranous colitis
Allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis) in someone with beta-lactam allergy
Hematological changes: prolonged use may lead to neutropenia, agranulocytosis, hemolytic anaemia (very rarely)
Liver function test changes possible.

Allergy: Do not use if allergic to cefpodoxime or other cephalosporins.
Penicillin allergy: Risk of cross-reactivity in some patients with history of penicillin allergy.
Gastrointestinal disease: Particularly a history of colitis.
Renal impairment: Adjust dose appropriately.
Pregnancy / Breastfeeding: Use only if clearly needed; consult a doctor. Cefpodoxime is excreted into breast milk.

Antacids (especially those containing magnesium or aluminum) and H2-receptor antagonists (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine) can decrease absorption of cefpodoxime.
Probenecid: slows excretion, potentially increasing levels.
May increase effects of coumarin anticoagulants (in some cases).

Tablets: Store at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
Oral suspension: After reconstitution, refrigerate; discard unused portion after 14 days.

Resistance to cefpodoxime can develop via beta-lactamase production, alterations in PBPs, or reduced permeability of the bacterial cell.
Some extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) can inactivate cefpodoxime.

Cefpodoxime is often used as a step-down therapy: after an intravenous cephalosporin (like ceftriaxone) when the patient is stable and can take oral meds.
It is a good choice for outpatient treatment of respiratory, urinary, skin bacterial infections when the causative bacteria are sensitive.

Laxin Healthcare, an Indian company, markets a cef- podoxime proxetil dry syrup under the name “Cefoprox 100 mg Dry Syrup”.
They also market a tablet formulation: Cedoxin CV 200mg/125mg, which combines cefpodoxime proxetil + clavulanic acid.
The “CV” combination is designed to extend the spectrum by including clavulanic acid, which inhibits certain beta-lactamases in bacteria.
Because this is a branded product under Laxin Healthcare, patients prescribed Laxin’s Cefoprox / Cedoxin should follow the same general precautions and dosing as for cefpodoxime, but also be aware that the CV combination may change how the drug behaves (especially in resistant infections).

If you’re prescribed cefpodoxime (or Laxin’s version), some practical tips:

Take with food to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.
Complete the full course, even if you feel better before it’s finished — stopping early can lead to resistance or relapse.
Measure the syrup correctly (if using the suspension) — use a proper measuring device.
Stay hydrated, especially if you experience diarrhea.
Report any severe side-effects like blood/mucus in stool, rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty to your doctor.
Inform doctors about other medicines (especially antacids, H2 blockers, blood thinners) before starting.
Renal issues: If you have kidney problems, make sure your doctor knows — the dose might need to be adjusted.