secef 400mg tablet - Cefixime (400mg) medicine

Bactofix 400mg Tablet DT: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Novartis India Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 24, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 24, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing.
  • Severe diarrhea: watery or bloody stools, abdominal cramps, fever.
  • Signs of kidney problems: decreased urine output, swelling in legs, fatigue.
  • Seizures or confusion.
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising.
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice).

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is secef 400mg tablet used for?

This medicine is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, and gonorrhea. It works by killing bacteria.

  • Generic Name: Cefixime (400mg)
  • Manufacturer: Novartis India Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 secef 400mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक एंटीबायोटिक है जिसका उपयोग बैक्टीरियल संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है, जैसे कि मूत्र मार्ग संक्रमण, श्वसन तंत्र संक्रमण, कान, नाक और गले के संक्रमण, और गोनोरिया। यह बैक्टीरिया को मारकर काम करती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में दस्त, मतली, पेट दर्द और सिरदर्द शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया, गंभीर दस्त, और गुर्दे की समस्याएं हो सकती हैं। किसी भी गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव के लिए तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी दवाओं और एलर्जी के बारे में बताएं। शराब से बचें। गुर्दे की समस्या हो तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। पूरा कोर्स पूरा करें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 secef 400mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Urinary tract infections","description":"This medicine is effective against common bacteria that cause urinary tract infections, such as Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Respiratory tract infections","description":"It is used to treat infections like acute bronchitis and exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Ear, nose, and throat infections","description":"This medicine is prescribed for conditions such as otitis media, sinusitis, and pharyngitis caused by susceptible bacteria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Gonorrhea","description":"It is used as a single-dose treatment for uncomplicated gonorrhea caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Lyme disease","description":"Sometimes used off-label for early Lyme disease, but not a first-line treatment.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Bacterial infections

Also treats: Urinary tract infections, Respiratory tract infections, Ear, nose, and throat infections, Gonorrhea

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Cefixime (400mg)
Brand Namesecef 400mg tablet
ManufacturerNovartis India Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action ClassCephalosporins: 3 generation
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
2
Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better after a few days.
3
If you experience severe diarrhea, stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately.
4
Inform your doctor if you are taking blood thinners like warfarin, as this medicine may increase bleeding risk.
5
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
6
If you have kidney problems, your doctor may need to adjust your dose.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Burning sensation during urination
This medicine is commonly prescribed for urinary tract infections.
Likely Use
✅
Cough with fever
This medicine may be used for respiratory tract infections.
Likely Use
❌
Runny nose without fever
This medicine is not effective for viral infections like the common cold.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The bioavailability is approximately 40-50% and is not significantly affected by food.
DistributionThis medicine distributes widely into body tissues and fluids, including the respiratory tract, urinary tract, and bile. It does not penetrate the cerebrospinal fluid well in the absence of inflammation.
Protein BindingApproximately 65% of this medicine is bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin.
MetabolismThis medicine is not significantly metabolized in the body. It is primarily excreted unchanged.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of this medicine is approximately 3 to 4 hours in healthy adults, but it may be prolonged in patients with renal impairment.
ExcretionThis medicine is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine. About 50% of an oral dose is recovered in the urine within 24 hours.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of this medicine is approximately 40-50%.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action is typically within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are achieved approximately 2 to 4 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is typically 12 to 24 hours, depending on the dose and the susceptibility of the bacteria.

How It Works

This medicine works by binding to specific penicillin-binding proteins inside the bacterial cell wall. This binding inhibits the final step of cell wall synthesis, leading to a weakened cell wall and ultimately causing the bacteria to die. It is bactericidal, meaning it kills the bacteria directly.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to penicillin-binding proteins: This medicine binds to specific penicillin-binding proteins located inside the bacterial cell wall.
2
Inhibition of cell wall synthesis: This binding inhibits the transpeptidation step required for cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains, which is essential for cell wall strength.
3
Bacterial cell lysis: The weakened cell wall leads to osmotic instability and ultimately causes the bacterial cell to burst and die.

💡 How to Take secef 400mg tablet

Strength: This medicine is available as a 400 mg tablet for oral administration.

1Take this medicine orally with a glass of water.
2You can take it with or without food.
3Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
4Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.
5Complete the full course even if you feel better.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 400 mg once daily or 200 mg twice daily, depending on the type and severity of the infection. For uncomplicated gonorrhea, a single 400 mg dose is recommended. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may have reduced kidney function and may require dose adjustment. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 60 mL/min), the dose may need to be reduced. Consult a doctor for specific dosing recommendations.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is recommended for patients with hepatic impairment, but caution is advised.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 400 mg.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with or without food
Food does not significantly affect absorption.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of secef 400mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Diarrhea (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. Stay hydrated. Consult doctor if persistent or severe.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. Consult doctor if it persists.
Abdominal pain (Common (5-10%))
Take with food. Consult doctor if pain is severe or persistent.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. Consult doctor if severe.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop severe, persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or fever.
Kidney problems (Rare (<0.1%))
Report decreased urine output, swelling, or fatigue to your doctor immediately.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Seizures
Seek immediate medical attention if seizures occur.
Blood disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia)
Report unusual bleeding or bruising to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Carbamazepine Major
Probenecid Moderate
Oral contraceptives Moderate
Antacids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Carbamazepine

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Probenecid
  • Oral contraceptives

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach upset and dizziness. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known allergy to cefixime or other cephalosporins","History of severe allergic reaction to penicillins"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in patients with kidney impairment; dose adjustment may be needed.","May cause Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea; if severe diarrhea occurs, stop the medicine and consult a doctor.","May cause dizziness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Do not use for viral infections; it is ineffective against viruses.","Complete the full course as prescribed to prevent resistance."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine is excreted in human breast milk in low concentrations. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. This medicine is not significantly removed by hemodialysis.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you are allergic to penicillin or other antibiotics. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially blood thinners like warfarin, as this medicine may increase the risk of bleeding. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine to reduce the risk of stomach upset. If you have kidney problems, your doctor may need to adjust your dose. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may have reduced kidney function and may require dose adjustment. Monitor for signs of superinfection and renal impairment.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It is generally considered safe but should be used only if clearly needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be prescribed to prevent or treat surgical site infections. Follow your surgeon's instructions carefully.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may interact with other medications or affect healing.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated to help flush out bacteria.
🥗
Get plenty of rest to support your immune system.
😴
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
💧
Practice good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
🧘
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

If you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid strenuous exercise until you feel better. Listen to your body and rest when needed.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink plenty of water.
Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt to maintain gut health.
Avoid spicy and oily foods if you have stomach upset.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their normal activities.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Stopping early can lead to recurrence of infection and antibiotic resistance.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to antibiotic resistance and superinfections. It is generally prescribed for short courses. Prolonged use should be monitored by a doctor.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Probiotics

Can help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine may reduce the efficacy of live bacterial vaccines like typhoid vaccine. Consult your doctor about vaccination timing.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature and protect it from moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule gradually. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with a urinary tract infection
She was prescribed this medicine for a UTI. After 2 days, her symptoms improved, but she continued the full 7-day course as directed. She experienced mild nausea, which she managed by taking the medicine with food.
💡 Lesson: Completing the full course is essential to prevent recurrence and resistance. Taking with food can reduce nausea.
👤 A 50-year-old man with chronic bronchitis
He was given this medicine for an acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis. His symptoms improved within 3 days. He was advised to avoid alcohol and to stay hydrated. He completed the 10-day course and recovered fully.
💡 Lesson: Adhering to the prescribed duration and following lifestyle advice leads to better outcomes.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling better within 2-3 days, but it is important to complete the full course as prescribed.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for secef 400mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure viral infections like the flu.
    Fact: This medicine is an antibiotic and is only effective against bacterial infections, not viruses.
  • Myth: You can stop taking this medicine once you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to prevent the infection from returning and to avoid antibiotic resistance.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Cefixime 400 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Bactofix 400mg tablet DT

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Cefixime","class":"Third-generation cephalosporin","route":"Oral","common_uses":"UTI, respiratory, ENT, gonorrhea"},{"medicine":"Cefpodoxime","class":"Third-generation cephalosporin","route":"Oral","common_uses":"UTI, respiratory, ENT"},{"medicine":"Ceftriaxone","class":"Third-generation cephalosporin","route":"Injection","common_uses":"Severe infections, meningitis, gonorrhea"}]

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