Drug Guide
Cefpodoxime Proxetil
Classification
Therapeutic: Antibiotic, Cephalosporin third generation
Pharmacological: Beta-lactam antibiotic, Cephalosporin
FDA Approved Indications
- Bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, and soft tissues
Mechanism of Action
Cefpodoxime Proxetil inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell lysis and death.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Usually 200 mg every 12 hours or 100 mg every 12 hours for urinary tract infections, adjusted based on severity and site of infection.
Pediatric: Based on weight; typical dose is 8 mg/kg/day divided every 12 hours.
Geriatric: Dosage adjustments based on renal function.
Renal Impairment: Adjust dosage for significant renal impairment; monitor renal function.
Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustment needed.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed orally, with about 50% bioavailability.
Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues and fluids.
Metabolism: Not extensively metabolized.
Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in urine.
Half Life: Approximately 2-4 hours.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cefpodoxime or other cephalosporins.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to penicillins due to potential cross-reactivity.
- Monitor for signs of allergic reactions.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Diarrhea (Common)
- Nausea (Common)
- Rash (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Serious)
- Anaphylaxis (Serious)
- Hematologic reactions (e.g., eosinophilia, hemolytic anemia) (Serious)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Probenecid (can increase cefpodoxime levels)
- Antacids (may decrease absorption)
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for allergic reactions, renal function, and response to therapy.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for allergy reaction
- Impaired renal function
Implementation: Administer with food to enhance absorption; educate patient on adherence and potential side effects.
Evaluation: Assess resolution of infection symptoms, monitor for adverse reactions.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Take medication exactly as prescribed.
- Report any signs of allergic reactions or severe gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Complete the full course of treatment.
- Avoid alcohol and certain foods that may interfere with absorption.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings: N/A
Genetic Factors: None specific.
Lab Test Interference: May cause false positive results for urine glucose tests with some methods.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Severe diarrhea, nausea, vomiting.
Treatment: Supportive care, possible use of activated charcoal if ingestion was recent, dialysis in severe cases.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
Stability: Stable for several years when stored properly.