Perhaps you or your child has a fever, cough, or other infection, and your doctor has prescribed an antibiotic. Cefixime is one such commonly used medicine, especially as an oral suspension for children. So, it is very important to be fully informed about this medicine. Let's talk about it briefly today.
What exactly is Cefixime?
Simply put, Cefixime is an antibiotic that belongs to the group of drugs called 'Cephalosporin'. Its main function is to destroy certain types of bacteria that enter our bodies and cause diseases.
Imagine that there are two types of germs that cause disease in our bodies: bacteria and viruses. This Cefixime medicine is like a special weapon designed to attack only the enemies called bacteria.
This means that this medicine cannot cure viral infections. For example, it will not help with viral illnesses such as the common cold or flu. Therefore, it is important to use it only if prescribed by a doctor, and exactly as he or she tells you.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes Cefixime for you or your child, it is very important that he or she knows your complete health history. Be sure to tell them about these things in particular:
- Allergies: Tell us if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Cefixime, other cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotics, or any other medicines, foods, or dyes.
- Kidney disease: If you have any kidney-related condition.
- Digestive system diseases: Bowel problems, especially if you have a history of inflammatory bowel conditions like colitis.
- Bleeding problems: If you have a blood clotting problem, or a condition where you bleed too quickly.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or are hoping to become pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: Be sure to mention that you are a breastfeeding mother.
How exactly do you use this syrup?
To get the most out of a medicine, you need to use it exactly as directed. Be aware of these things when using Cefixime syrup.
1. Shake well: The bottle should be shaken well before using the medicine. This is because the medicinal powder in the medicine may have settled at the bottom of the bottle. If it is not shaken well, the dose given may change and the quality of the medicine may decrease.
2. Measure accurately: Use the special plastic spoon, measuring cup, or oral syringe that comes with the medicine. Do not measure with regular teaspoons or tablespoons found in the kitchen. These are not accurate and may cause the dosage to vary.
3. Take it on time: Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the same time every day if possible.
4. With or without food: This can be taken before or after meals. However, some people may experience stomach upset or heartburn after taking this, so taking it with food may help reduce the discomfort.
5. Complete the course: This is the most important thing. You should take this medicine for the full number of days prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking it half way through, thinking that your illness has subsided. If you do, the bacteria remaining in your body may become stronger again, and the illness may become worse than before.
When given to small children?
Doctors also prescribe this medicine to children over 6 months of age for selected conditions. However, this is done after carefully examining the child's condition and with special care. Therefore, it is very important to follow the doctor's instructions exactly.
What if I overdose or miss a dose?
- If you overdose: If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, do not panic and immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU). Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
- If you miss a dose: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is very close to your next dose (for example, within two to three hours), skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
What are the side effects?
Like any medicine, Cefixime can have side effects. While most of these are minor, there are some things we should be especially aware of.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Severe Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Severe skin diseases | Redness of the skin, blistering, peeling of the skin (even inside the mouth), and fever. |
| Severe diarrhea | Bloody or watery diarrhea. |
| Other serious symptoms | Fever, pain when urinating or change in the amount of urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, unusual bruising or bleeding, extreme fatigue, seizures. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Digestive system problems | Common diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating. |
| Other minor features | Headache, itching or discomfort in the genital area or anus. |
Something special about diarrhea...
Some people may experience diarrhea while taking this medicine. This is normal. However, do not take over-the-counter diarrhea medications. If diarrhea lasts for more than two days, or becomes severe, such as a lot of water, tell your doctor, as it may be a sign of a serious condition.
How do you store the medicine bottle?
- Keep this medicine in a safe place out of the reach of children and pets .
- The medicine bottle can be stored either in the refrigerator or at normal room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Specific instructions are listed on the label of the medicine bottle or the leaflet that comes with it.
- Most importantly: Throw away any medicine left in the bottle after 14 days from the time you receive it from the pharmacy. If it is older than 14 days, it may lose its potency and safety.
Take-Home Message
- Cefixime is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. It does not work for viral infections like the common cold.
- Take the medicine for the full number of days prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop taking it halfway just because the illness has subsided.
- Use the special measuring device that comes with the medicine to measure it. Do not use kitchen spoons.
- Tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have and any other medications you are taking.
- If you experience severe skin rashes, severe diarrhea, or other severe allergic symptoms along with fever, seek medical advice immediately.
- Remove the remaining medication 14 days after taking it.
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