Cefpodoxime is a third generation semi-synthetic Cephalosporin, exhibits activity against several Gram positive as well as Gram negative microorganisms. This compound is also stable in beta lactamase environment. Cefpodoxime exhibits exceptional activity against methicillin susceptible Staphylococci, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria spp. and Moraxella catarrhalis.

Clavulanic acid is a natural inhibitor of beta lactamase which are produced by Streptomyces clavuligerus. It binds to beta lactamase moieties and inactivates them, thus restricting the Cefpodoxime destruction.

It is indicated in the following infections -

• Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
• Acute community acquired pneumonia
• Pharyngitis or tonsillitis
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Uncomplicated gonorrhea
• Acute maxillary sinusitis

For adults (Age 12 years and older):

• Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis: 1 tablet 12 hourly for 10 days
• Acute community acquired pneumonia: 1 tablet 12 hourly for 14 days
• Pharyngitis or tonsillitis: ½ tablet 12 hourly for 5 to 10 days
• Skin and soft tissue infections: 2 tablet 12 hourly for 7 to 14 days
• Urinary tract infections: ½ tablet 12 hourly for 7 days
• Uncomplicated gonorrhea: Single dose
• Acute maxillary sinusitis: 1 tablet 12 hourly for 10 days

For children: Children 2 months to 12 years- 10 mg/kg/day in divided dose, every 12 hours.

Cefpodoxime is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Cephalosporins.

Cefpodoxime is well tolerated. Most common gastrointestinal adverse effects are diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

Cefpodoxime should be administered with caution to patients receiving concurrent treatment with diuretics.

Pregnancy & Lactation

US FDA pregnancy category of Cefpodoxime & Clavulanic Acid is B. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cefpodoxime have been shown to be excreted in human milk. So, caution should be exercised when Cefpodoxime is administered to a nursing woman.