What is cefixim?
Cefixim is a 3rd generation cephalosporin antibiotic used as an oral alternative in Gonorrhoe (Tripper) if the standard therapy with ceftriaxone (intramuscular injection) is not possible.
Gonorrhoea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae and is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. The increasing resistance to antibiotics in gonococci makes the correct choice of therapy particularly important.
Current guidelines: Ceftriaxon i.m. is standard therapy. Cefixim oral is a second-line option, as resistance rates increase against oral cephalosporins.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Cefixim
Active mechanism:
- Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis
- Ties to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) of the bacteria
- Prevents cross-linking of the peptideoglykan
- Bactericidal action
Activity spectrum:
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae (with sensitive pathogen)
- Wide spectrum cephalosporin (also urinary and respiratory pathogens)
- Stable to many beta lactamases
Restriction on Gonorrhoe:
- Increased resistance worldwide
- Cefixim orally reaches lower serum levels than ceftriaxon i.m.
- Therefore only second-line and with pharyngeal gonorrhoe less effective
Who is it suitable for?
Cefixim at Gonorrhoe is suitable for:
- Uncomplicated urogenital gonorrhoea if Ceftriaxon i.m. cannot be administered
- In combination with aziithromycin (dual therapy)
NOT recommended for:* *
- Pharyngeal gonorrhoea (lower effectiveness)
- Complicated or disseminated gonorrhoea
- Cephalosporin allergy
Not suitable:
- allergy to cephalosporins
- Heavy penicillin allergy (crease allergy possible)
Available Dosages
**Gonorrhoe (uncomplicated, urogenital/anorectal):* *
- 800 mg as a single dose orally
- In combination with aziithromycin 1.5 g oral as a single dose
Standard therapy (preferably):
- Ceftriaxone 1 g i.m. as single dose (+ Azithromycin)
Other indications: 400 mg once a day or 200 mg twice a day
Available starches:
- 200 mg, 400 mg film tablets/capsules
- juice for children
How to Take
Admission to Gonorrhoe:
- 800 mg as a single dose (4 × 200 mg or 2 × 400 mg)
- Take together with aziithromycin
- Independent meals
- Suck with water
Important notes:
- Control: STI test after 2 weeks
- Sexual abstinence until confirmation of healing
- All sexual partners of the last 60 days inform and treat
- Testing for further STIs (chlamydia, syphilis, HIV)
Contraindications
**Cefixim must not be taken at:* *
- allergy to cephalosporins
- Heavy penicillin hypersensitivity (anaphylaxis)
Preview at:
- Light penicillin allergy (Cross allergy 1–5 %)
- Kidney insufficiency (dose adjustment at GFR < 20 ml/min)
- C.-difficile risk
pregnant: Cephalosporins are considered relatively safe in pregnancy. Ceftriaxon i.m., however, is preferred in Gonorrhoe in pregnancy.
Possible Side Effects
Family (1–10 %):
- diarrhea
- nausea, abdominal pain
- Headaches
- Candidose (vaginal/oral)
** Occasionally (0.1-1 %):* *
- Break.
- Blowing
- Skin rash
- Squeeze
Selten:
- C.-difficile-associated diarrhea
- Allergic reactions (Anaphylaxis)
- Blood-image changes
- liver value increases
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is cefixim right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.