Cefditoren is a third-generation, broad-spectrum, oral cephalosporin antibiotic. It is a prodrug that is hydrolyzed to its active form, cefditoren pivoxil, in the intestinal wall. It is bactericidal and exhibits enhanced stability against many beta-lactamases. In the Indian context, it is a valuable option for community-acquired respiratory and skin infections, particularly where resistance to older antibiotics like amoxicillin is suspected.
Adult: 200 mg orally twice daily (every 12 hours) with meals. Duration: 5-14 days depending on infection.
Note: MUST be taken with a meal (preferably containing fats) to ensure adequate absorption. Tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew.
Cefditoren is bactericidal. It binds to and inhibits penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), primarily PBP-2 and PBP-3, located on the inner membrane of the bacterial cell wall. This inhibition disrupts the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis, leading to the formation of a defective cell wall and ultimately osmotic lysis and cell death.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy Category B. Animal studies have shown no direct harm, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women are lacking. Use only if clearly needed and potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus.
Driving: No specific effects reported. However, patients should be cautioned that if they experience dizziness or headache, they should avoid driving or operating machinery.
| Probenecid | Inhibits renal tubular secretion of cefditoren, increasing its plasma concentration and half-life. | Moderate |
| Antacids (Aluminum/Magnesium hydroxide) or H2 Blockers (Famotidine) | Reduce gastric acidity, which may decrease the absorption and bioavailability of cefditoren. | Moderate |
| Iron Supplements / Multivitamins with Minerals | Cationic minerals (Fe2+, Zn2+, Ca2+) can chelate cefditoren in the GI tract, significantly reducing its absorption. Administer at least 2-3 hours apart. | Major |
| Warfarin | Cephalosporins may potentiate anticoagulant effect by altering gut flora and reducing vitamin K synthesis. Monitor INR closely. | Moderate |
| Other Nephrotoxic drugs (Aminoglycosides, Loop Diuretics) | Increased risk of nephrotoxicity. | Moderate |
Same composition (Cefditoren (200mg)), different brands: