A fixed-dose combination oral antibiotic consisting of Cefpodoxime Proxetil, a third-generation cephalosporin prodrug, and Clavulanic Acid, a beta-lactamase inhibitor. This combination extends the antibacterial spectrum of cefpodoxime by protecting it from degradation by beta-lactamase enzymes produced by resistant bacteria, making it effective against a broader range of infections, particularly in the Indian context where beta-lactamase resistance is prevalent.
Adult: One tablet (Cefpodoxime 200mg + Clavulanic Acid 125mg) every 12 hours. Duration: 5-14 days depending on infection.
Note: Administer with food to enhance absorption and minimize potential gastrointestinal upset. Tablet should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew.
Cefpodoxime binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) on the bacterial cell wall, inhibiting the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis, leading to cell lysis and death. Clavulanic acid is a 'suicide' inhibitor that irreversibly binds to and inactivates a wide range of beta-lactamase enzymes (including plasmid-mediated TEM-1, SHV-1, and some ESBLs), thereby protecting cefpodoxime from hydrolysis.
Pregnancy: Category B. Cefpodoxime and clavulanate cross the placenta. Use only if clearly needed. Adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women are lacking. Generally considered safe when benefits outweigh risks.
Driving: May cause dizziness. Patients should be cautioned about operating machinery or driving until they know how the medication affects them.
| Probenecid | Inhibits renal tubular secretion of cefpodoxime, increasing and prolonging its blood levels. | Moderate |
| Antacids, H2 Blockers (e.g., Ranitidine), PPIs (e.g., Omeprazole) | Reduce gastric acidity, which may decrease the absorption and bioavailability of cefpodoxime. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. | Moderate |
| Aminoglycosides (e.g., Gentamicin) | Increased potential for nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function. | Moderate |
| Loop Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide) | May increase the risk of nephrotoxicity. | Moderate |
| Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) | May potentiate anticoagulant effect, increasing risk of bleeding. Monitor INR. | Major |
| Oral Typhoid Vaccine | Antibiotics may render the live bacterial vaccine ineffective. Avoid concurrent use. | Major |
| Methotrexate | May decrease renal clearance of methotrexate, increasing toxicity risk. | Major |
Same composition (Cefpodoxime Proxetil (200mg) + Clavulanic Acid (125mg)), different brands: