Cefpodoxime Proxetil

About Cefpodoxime Proxetil

Cefpodoxime kills bacteria by blocking the building of their cell walls. Its label covers ear infections, strep throat and tonsillitis, community-acquired pneumonia, flare-ups of chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, uncomplicated bladder infections, skin infections and some gonorrhea infections. Adults usually take it every 12 hours for 5 to 14 days depending on the infection, and children take a weight-based dose of the suspension. Like all antibiotics, it does not work for colds, flu or other viral infections.

Diarrhea is the most common side effect, followed by nausea and vaginal yeast infections. Severe, watery or bloody diarrhea, even weeks after the course, can signal a C. difficile infection and needs prompt care. It is not used in people allergic to cephalosporins, and anyone with a penicillin allergy should tell the prescriber, since some people react to both. In severe kidney impairment the doses are spaced further apart.

Taking Cefpodoxime Proxetil

How to take it

Usually every 12 hours, finishing the course even if you feel better. Take tablets with food, which improves absorption; the suspension can be taken with or without food. Shake the suspension well before each dose and measure it carefully.

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next dose; then skip the missed dose and continue as usual. Do not take a double dose.

Storage

Tablets at room temperature in the original container, away from light, heat and moisture. Keep the mixed suspension in the refrigerator, tightly closed, and throw away any that is left after 14 days.

Interactions to know about

Antacids and H2 blockers such as famotidine reduce how much is absorbed, and probenecid raises its levels. Kidney function is watched if it is combined with other medicines that can harm the kidneys. Seek care promptly for severe or bloody diarrhea, rash, hives, or swelling of the face or throat.

This summarizes the official prescribing information. Your prescriber’s and pharmacist’s instructions, and the leaflet that comes with your medicine, take priority.

Why the cash price for Cefpodoxime Proxetil differs from pharmacy to pharmacy

Cefpodoxime is an older generic, but far fewer companies make it than everyday antibiotics such as cephalexin, and a pharmacy that does not stock it has to order it, which can delay the start of a course. In federal acquisition-cost data, pharmacies pay less for one 200 mg tablet than for two 100 mg tablets.

The suspension is the expensive form: a dose given as liquid costs pharmacies far more than the same dose as tablets, and the bottle is mixed with water, kept in the refrigerator and thrown away after 14 days, so whatever is left over is wasted.

Ways to pay less for Cefpodoxime Proxetil without insurance

• If your dose is 200 mg, ask the prescriber to write it as one 200 mg tablet rather than two 100 mg tablets.
• For a child who can swallow tablets, ask the prescriber whether tablets would suit, since the suspension costs far more.
• If cost is a concern, ask whether an older first-choice antibiotic would treat your infection equally well.
• Call ahead to check that the pharmacy has it in stock, so the course is not delayed.
• Upload the prescription to Script Unlock so licensed pharmacies can quote their cash price. You pay the pharmacy directly.

Questions to ask your pharmacist about Cefpodoxime Proxetil

1. 1.Should I take the tablets with a meal?
2. 2.How should I space it from antacids or acid reducers?
3. 3.Is it safe with my penicillin allergy?
4. 4.How should I store the suspension, and when should I throw it away?
5. 5.What kind of diarrhea means I should call?

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