Cefpodoxime  is an oral third generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It is marketed as the pro-drug cefpodoxime proxetil to improve oral absorption. The oral absorption of cefpodoxime proxetil in dogs is about 60%, and half life in dogs is about 6 hours and in horses is 7 hours. 

Antibacterial Spectrum

It is less active against gram-positive cocci and more active against streptococci, Enterobacteriaceae and β-lactamase producing H. influenza. It has slightly more active against Staphylococcus aureus.

Clinical Uses

Cefpodoxime is indicated for treatment of skin and other soft tissue infections in dogs caused by susceptible bacteria.

Mechanism of Action

All cephalosporins are bactericidal. They inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis in a manner similar to that of penicillins. However, they bind to different proteins than those required by penicillins and are less susceptible to penicillinases. Like other beta-lactam antibiotic, cephalosporins are generally considered to be more effective against actively growing bacteria.

Adverse effects

The cephalosporins are relatively non-toxic antibiotics with relatively low frequency of allergic reactions. Hypersensitivity reaction, if occurs, is similar to that produced by penicillins with manifestations of rashes, fever, esinophilia, lymphadenopathy, or full-blown anaphylaxis. About 10% of the penicillin sensitive individuals show some cross-reactivity to cephalosporins. Other adverse reactions associated with cephalosporins in animals may include GI disturbances (nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea), superinfection, pain at IM injection site and lethargy. Prolonged treatment with cephalosporins in man has been associated with interstitial nephritis, hepatitis, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia.

Contraindications and Precautions

Like Penicillins, cephalosporins are contraindicated in patients those are hypersensitive to them or penicillins. Prolonged administration of cephalosporins should be avoided in animals, particularly cats, as they may lead to anaemia or superinfection. Cephalosporins should be used with caution in pregnant animals as they cross placenta and reach foetal tissues. Dosage adjustment may be required in patients with renal insufficiency.

Drug Interactions

Drug interaction of cephalosporins are generally similar to those of penicillins. Concomitant use aminoglycosides and loop diuretics (e.g. furosemide) appears to potentiate the nephrotoxic effect of cephalosporins. Bacteriostatic agents (e.g. chloramphenicol) interfere with bactericidal action of cephalosporins, thus their concurrent administration should be avoided. Probenecid administered concurrently with cephalosporins increases and prolongs plasma level by competitively inhibiting renal tubular secretion.

Brand Name

WigShield