Overview of the clinical features of cefixime

Third-generation cephalosporins in oral formulations have become an increasingly important first-line choice against common bacterial infections. Cefixime is one such agent, which possesses excellent efficacy against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Moraxella catarrhalis. Clinical success rates are similar to cefaclor, clarithromycin, and other cephalosporins. Importantly, cefixime also possesses excellent activity against beta-lactamase-producing strains. The pharmacodynamic features of the drug include a half-life of 3-4 h and a C-max of 4.4 mu g/ml, well above the MIC90 for susceptible pathogens, permitting once-daily dosing. In this brief overview, the bacteriological and clinical efficacy of cefixime is discussed, as well as its indications.