Cefixime

Cefixime is an oral third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell-wall synthesis by binding penicillin-binding proteins. It is used for selected bacterial infections, including some urinary and respiratory tract infections.

Penicillin-binding proteins: Bacterial enzymes that assemble and remodel peptidoglycan in the cell wall. Cefixime binds these enzymes, disrupting the cross-linking needed to build a stable bacterial wall.
Urinary tract infection: An infection involving the kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra, usually caused by bacteria. Cefixime is used for selected urinary infections when the causative bacteria are susceptible.
Ceftriaxone: A third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic administered by injection or infusion. Unlike oral cefixime, ceftriaxone is injectable and remains a preferred treatment for uncomplicated gonorrhea.
Cephalosporin: A family of beta-lactam antibiotics that interfere with bacterial cell-wall synthesis. Cefixime is a member of this antibiotic family.
Antimicrobial stewardship: Coordinated efforts to use antimicrobial drugs appropriately and preserve their effectiveness. Restricting cefixime to suitable infections helps reduce unnecessary exposure and resistance selection.
Peptidoglycan: A mesh-like polymer of sugars and peptides that gives most bacterial cell walls strength. Cefixime's target enzymes construct this wall material.
Gonorrhea: A sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Cefixime has been an alternative oral treatment, but resistance limits its role in many guidelines.
Cefpodoxime: An oral third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used for selected bacterial infections. It is another oral option in the same generation, with different pharmacokinetics and susceptibility patterns.
Third-generation cephalosporin: A cephalosporin subgroup developed for broader activity against many Gram-negative bacteria than earlier generations. Cefixime belongs to this subgroup, although its exact spectrum is drug-specific.
Empiric therapy: Treatment started before a pathogen or its drug susceptibilities are definitively identified. Local resistance patterns influence whether cefixime is a sensible initial choice.

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