Cefixime
Also known as: Suprax
Cefixime is an antibiotic used to treat specific bacterial infections in your pet. * **Administration:** Can be given with or without food. If your pet vomits after receiving the medication on an empty stomach, try giving future doses with a small treat or meal. * **Completion of Therapy:** Give the medication exactly as directed for as long as your veterinarian recommends, **even if your pet appears well**. Stopping early can lead to resistant infections. * **Storage:** The liquid suspension can be kept at room temperature and does not require refrigeration. **Discard any unused liquid after 14 days**. * **Side Effects:** Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of an allergic reaction (such as hives, itching, or facial swelling). Contact your veterinarian if these occur.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Susceptible infections
- Infectious endocarditis
- UTI
- Respiratory, systemic infections
- Susceptible infections
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Gastrointestinal distress (vomiting, diarrhea)
- Hypersensitivity reactions (urticaria, pruritus, fever)
Cautions & contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cefixime or other cephalosporins
- > **Important Precautions:** * **Renal Impairment:** Because cefixime is primarily excreted by the kidneys, dosages and/or dosage frequency may need to be adjusted in patients with significantly diminished renal function. * **Cross-Reactivity:** Use with caution in patients allergic to penicillins due to the potential for cross-reactivity. * **Neurologic Conditions:** Use with caution in patients with seizure disorders, as high levels of beta-lactams can lower the seizure threshold. * **Laboratory Interference:** May cause false-positive urine glucose determinations when using cupric sulfate solution (e.g., Clinitest) and false-positive urinary ketones with nitroprusside tests.
Drug interactions
- Probenecid: Competitively blocks the tubular secretion of most cephalosporins, thereby increasing serum levels and serum half-lives.
- Salicylates: May displace cefixime from plasma protein binding sites; clinical significance is unclear.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cefixime used for in pets?
Cefixime is an antibiotic used to treat specific bacterial infections in your pet. * **Administration:** Can be given with or without food. If your pet vomits after receiving the medication on an empty stomach, try giving future doses with a small treat or meal. * **Completion of Therapy:** Give the medication exactly as directed for as long as your veterinarian recommends, **even if your pet appears well**. Stopping early can lead to resistant infections. * **Storage:** The liquid suspension can be kept at room temperature and does not require refrigeration. **Discard any unused liquid after 14 days**. * **Side Effects:** Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of an allergic reaction (such as hives, itching, or facial swelling). Contact your veterinarian if these occur.
Is Cefixime safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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