Things you need to know about Cefixime (Cefixime)

Perhaps you have been diagnosed with a fever, cough, or cold and have been prescribed a medicine called Cefixime by a doctor. It is popular among our people with names like 'yellow and white sputum'. But even though this is a very commonly prescribed medicine, it is very important to be aware of it and use it properly. So today, let's talk about what Cefixime is and what we need to know when using it.

What kind of medicine is Cefixime really?

Simply put, Cefixime is an antibiotic . This means that it helps to kill certain types of bacteria that enter our bodies and cure infections caused by them. It is a medicine that belongs to the group of antibiotics called `Cephalosporin`.

So if a doctor prescribes this medicine for you, it means that he or she has decided that you have a bacterial infection. Sometimes this medicine can also be used for other infections not mentioned in this article. Your doctor will decide that.

Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication

Before your doctor prescribes this medication, it is very important that you give him a complete description of your health condition. Because that information will determine whether this medication is right for you or not. In particular, you should definitely tell him the following:

• Allergies: Be sure to tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergy to Cefixime, penicillin, or other cephalosporin antibiotics. Also, tell your doctor if you have any allergies to other medications, foods, preservatives, or dyes.
• Kidney problems: If you have any kidney disease .
• Digestive system diseases: If you have intestinal diseases such as colitis.
• Bleeding problems: If you have a blood clotting problem or are at risk of bleeding.
• Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are breastfeeding your baby .

Do not hide this information from the doctor, as it is very important for your safety.

How exactly should I use this medicine?

To get the most out of this medicine, you need to know how to use it correctly.

• Follow your doctor's instructions: Take the prescribed dose exactly as your doctor prescribes, at the right time. It's a good idea to get into the habit of taking your medicine at the same time every day.
• Before or after meals: This medicine can be taken before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach upset or heartburn after taking the medicine, taking it with food can help reduce it.
• Complete the course: This is the most important thing. Even if you feel better while taking the medicine, finish the entire course of medicine until your doctor tells you to stop . If you stop taking it halfway, the infection may not be completely cured and may come back. Also, the bacteria may get used to the medicine and the medicine may not work as well later.
• If giving to children: Be sure to talk to your doctor about giving this medicine to children. Although it is sometimes prescribed to children, there are some things to be careful about.
• Overdose: If you suddenly think you have taken more than the prescribed dose, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
• Do not share your medicine: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Never give your medicine to others, even if they have the same symptoms as you.

What to do if you miss a dose of medicine?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time (`Do not take double doses`).

Things to be careful about while taking the medicine

While taking this medicine, it is important for you to be aware of some things.

• Be aware of symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve despite taking medication, or if new symptoms appear, inform your doctor.
• Serious skin reactions: This medicine can sometimes cause serious skin reactions. These can occur weeks after you start taking the medicine. If you have a rash with symptoms such as fever or chills, if the rash turns red/purple and then blisters and the skin peels off, or if you have swelling of the face, lips, or lymph nodes in the neck or armpits, seek medical advice immediately .
• Diarrhea: Some people may experience some diarrhea while taking this medicine. However, if you have severe diarrhea that lasts for more than two days and is watery , do not take over-the-counter medication. Be sure to talk to your doctor for advice.
• If you are being treated for an STI: If you are being treated for an STI (sexually transmitted disease), avoid having sex until you have finished the full course of medication. Otherwise, you could pass the disease on to your partner.
• Other medications: Tell your doctor if you are taking any medications such as aspirin, blood thinners (warfarin), or carbamazepine. Also, tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).

Possible side effects of Cefixime

Like any medicine, Cefixime can cause some side effects. Some of these are serious, while others are common. It is important to be aware of these.

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, please tell your doctor.

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