How do you take Cefpodoxime (Cefpodoxime Proxetil)?

Adults usually take one 200mg tablet twice a day (morning and evening), or as your doctor prescribes. Take it with food, which helps your body absorb the drug better. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. A typical course lasts 5 to 14 days depending on the infection. Always complete the full course even if you feel better.

What are the side effects of Cefpodoxime (Cefpodoxime Proxetil)?

Stomach upset or loose stool (diarrhoea), nausea or feeling like vomiting, headache, mild stomach pain or gas

Who should not take Cefpodoxime (Cefpodoxime Proxetil)?

People who are allergic to cefpodoxime, other cephalosporin antibiotics (like ceftriaxone or cefuroxime), or penicillin antibiotics should not take this drug. People with severe kidney problems should only use it under close doctor supervision with adjusted doses. Inform your doctor if you have a history of gut problems like colitis.

Prescription

Antibiotic (Cephalosporin)

Cefpodoxime

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Cefpodoxime is an antibiotic that works by killing bacteria that cause infections in your body. It belongs to the cephalosporin family of antibiotics and stops bacteria from building their protective walls, which destroys them.

How it works

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) and preventing peptidoglycan cross-linking, leading to bacterial cell wall rupture and death.

What is it used for?

Throat infections, ear infections, urinary tract infections (UTI), chest infections like bronchitis and pneumonia, skin infections, typhoid, gonorrhoea, sinus infections

Browse by condition

Typhoid Skin Infections Ear Infections Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)Sinus & Nasal Throat & Chest Infections STIs & Sexual Health Chest & Lung Infections Bacterial Infections Sepsis & Severe Infections

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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Cefdinir Cefadroxil Cefixime Cefuroxime

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What to watch out for

Always complete the full course of this antibiotic, as stopping early because you feel better can make the bacteria resistant and the infection may come back stronger. Buy only from licensed pharmacies, not from roadside sellers or open markets, as fake antibiotics are common in Nigeria. Do not share your prescription with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms.

Common Side Effects

Stomach upset or loose stool (diarrhoea)
nausea or feeling like vomiting
headache
mild stomach pain or gas

Serious Side Effects

Severe skin rash
itching
or swelling of the face and throat (this could be a serious allergic reaction, so go to the hospital immediately). Watery or bloody diarrhoea that won't stop (could be a sign of a dangerous gut infection). Yellowing of the eyes or skin (sign of liver problems).

Drug Interactions

Antacids and ulcer drugs like aluminium/magnesium hydroxide can reduce how well cefpodoxime works, so take them at least 2 hours apart. Blood thinners like warfarin may have stronger effects when combined with cefpodoxime, increasing the risk of bleeding. Avoid alcohol while taking this antibiotic as it can worsen stomach side effects and reduce your body's ability to fight the infection.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Consult your doctor before taking cefpodoxime if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It may pass into breast milk, so your doctor needs to weigh the benefits against the risks.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to cefpodoxime
other cephalosporin antibiotics (like ceftriaxone or cefuroxime)
or penicillin antibiotics should not take this drug. People with severe kidney problems should only use it under close doctor supervision with adjusted doses. Inform your doctor if you have a history of gut problems like colitis.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep tablets in their original pack. If using the suspension (syrup), store it in the fridge after mixing and use within 14 days. Always keep out of reach of children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.