What is Cefpodoxime?
Cefpodoxime is an antibiotic (specifically a type of antibiotic called a cephalosporin)1 used to treat bacterial infections like urinary tract infections and bronchitis. It can also be used to treat bacterial sinusitis.
It’s common to develop bacterial sinusitis after a viral infection, such as the common cold. Signs include worsening facial pain and pressure. Bacterial sinusitis also often causes nasal discharge and a reduced sense of smell.
Who is Cefpodoxime for?
Cefpodoxime is for adults aged 18 or over who have bacterial sinusitis. Sinus infections sometimes clear up on their own, but often take a while to do so, which means prolonged facial pressure, pain, and congestion.
If your infection doesn’t clear with rest and over-the-counter treatments, a doctor might recommend Cefpodoxime to treat it systemically.
How does Cefpodoxime work?
Cefpodoxime works by destroying bacterial cell walls. This means they lose their shape and eventually die. By killing the bacteria that causes infections, your body can then heal itself and allow your sinuses to drain normally.
As your infection clears and your sinusitis starts to improve, your sense of smell should return to normal and the pain and pressure in your sinuses should start to ease off.
Are there different doses of Cefpodoxime?
Cefpodoxime is available in 200mg tablets. The usual dose to clear a bacterial sinus infection is one 200mg tablet every 12 or 24 hours, which means a maximum daily dose of 400mg.
Courses of Cefpodoxime typically last 5-14 days.
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