Cefpodoxime
Key points
- CEFPODOXIME (Vantinreg;) is a cephalosporin antibiotic.
- Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your medicine.
- If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose.
- Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products.
Cefpodoxime oral suspension
What is cefpodoxime oral suspension?
CEFPODOXIME (Vantinreg;) is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It treats many kinds of infections, including those of the respiratory tract, skin, and ears. Generic cefpodoxime oral suspension is available.
What should my health care professional know before I take cefpodoxime?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•bleeding problems
•kidney disease
•stomach or intestinal problems (especially colitis)
•other chronic illness
•an unusual or allergic reaction to cefpodoxime, other cephalosporin antibiotics, penicillin, penicillamine, other foods, dyes or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take cefpodoxime oral suspension by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Shake well before using. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your medicine. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one; household spoons are not always accurate. You can take cefpodoxime with or without food. If cefpodoxime upsets your stomach it may help to take it with food. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. There should be an interval of at least 12 hours between doses.
What drug(s) may interact with cefpodoxime?
•antacids
•stomach or ulcer drugs such as nizatidine (Axidreg;), cimetidine (Tagametreg;), famotidine (Pepcidreg;), or ranitidine (Zantacreg;)
•probenecid
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking cefpodoxime?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:•difficulty breathing, wheezing•nosebleed•redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth•seizures (convulsions)•severe or watery diarrhea•skin rash, hives, or itching•swelling of the lips, tongue or face•swollen joints•unusual weakness or tiredness•vaginal itching•vomiting
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.

