Cefixime

Abstract

Cefixime is a new orally active third-generation cephalosporin with a broad spectrum of activity against a variety of both gram-positive and -negative bacteria including many beta-lactamase-producing strains of streptococci, Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and the majority of the Enterobacteriaceae. Activity of cefixime against Staphylococcus aureus, enterococci, Listeria monocytogenes, and Pseudomonas spp. is poor. The relatively long elimination half-life of cefixime (approximately 3.0 h) has made possible once- to twice-daily administration with the potential added benefit of improved patient compliance. Clinical trials indicate that cefixime is at least as effective as standard agents in the treatment of genitourinary and upper respiratory tract infections. The incidence of resistant organisms reported during clinical trials with cefixime was low. Adverse reactions observed during clinical trials were relatively uncommon and generally mild and transient in nature. The most significant adverse reactions reported were diarrhea and stool changes occurring in up to 20 percent of patients.