Cefpodoxime
General Drug Information and Indications
Third-generation oral cephalosporin for susceptible bacterial infections including skin/soft tissue, respiratory, and urinary tract infections in dogs and cats.
Third-generation oral cephalosporin. Mechanism: PBP binding → bacterial cell wall synthesis inhibition (bactericidal). Extended gram-negative spectrum. Prodrug (proxetil ester) hydrolyzed post-absorption to active form. Renally excreted.
Key information
Store at room temperature. Administer with food to improve absorption and reduce GI side effects. Not for use in rabbits or hindgut fermenters.
How to Give this Medication
Oral tablets: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Complete full prescribed course. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one. Complete the full course of antibiotics.
Side Effects
GI: vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia. Hypersensitivity (cross-reactive with penicillin). Superinfection with resistant organisms.
Precautions
For animals
Avoid in beta-lactam-hypersensitive patients. Reduce dose or extend interval in renal impairment.
For people handling this medication
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Cephalosporin antibiotic — inform your doctor if you have beta-lactam allergy. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Overdose typically causes GI upset. Supportive care as needed.
Cefpodoxime dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CEFPODOXIME 200 MG TABLET | 200 MG | Tablet | 1 | Commercial |
| CEFPODOXIME PROXETIL TAB 200MG (Cronus) | 200 MG | Tablet | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)