Cefpodoxime Proxetil and Potassium Clavulanate Tablets: A Comprehensive Guide for Healthcare Professionals

Introduction

Cefpodoxime proxetil and potassium clavulanate tablets are a combination of two antibiotics that are used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Cefpodoxime proxetil is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that is effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Potassium clavulanate is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that protects cefpodoxime proxetil from being broken down by beta-lactamase enzymes produced by certain bacteria.

Mechanism of Action

Cefpodoxime proxetil inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). Potassium clavulanate inhibits beta-lactamase enzymes, which are produced by some bacteria to break down cephalosporin antibiotics. By inhibiting beta-lactamase enzymes, potassium clavulanate extends the spectrum of activity of cefpodoxime proxetil against bacteria that produce these enzymes.

Spectrum of Activity

Cefpodoxime proxetil and potassium clavulanate tablets are effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including:

• Gram-positive bacteria:
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant S. aureus, MRSA)
  • Streptococcus pyogenes
  • Streptococcus agalactiae
  • Streptococcus viridans
• Gram-negative bacteria:
  • Haemophilus influenzae
  • Moraxella catarrhalis
  • Neisseria gonorrhoeae
  • Escherichia coli
  • Klebsiella pneumoniae
  • Proteus mirabilis

Clinical Indications

Cefpodoxime proxetil and potassium clavulanate tablets are indicated for the treatment of the following infections caused by susceptible bacteria:

• Upper respiratory tract infections:
  • Acute bacterial sinusitis
  • Acute otitis media
  • Pharyngitis/tonsillitis
• Lower respiratory tract infections:
  • Acute bronchitis
  • Pneumonia
• Skin and skin structure infections:
  • Cellulitis
  • Impetigo
  • Abscesses
• Urinary tract infections:
  • Uncomplicated urinary tract infections
  • Pyelonephritis

Dosage and Administration

Cefpodoxime proxetil and potassium clavulanate tablets are available in 100 mg, 200 mg, and 400 mg strengths. The usual dosage for adults and children 12 years and older is 200 mg every 12 hours. For children 6 to 11 years of age, the usual dosage is 100 mg every 12 hours.

Table 1: Dosage and Administration of Cefpodoxime Proxetil and Potassium Clavulanate Tablets

Contraindications and Precautions

Cefpodoxime proxetil and potassium clavulanate tablets are contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to cefpodoxime proxetil, potassium clavulanate, or any other cephalosporin antibiotic.

Common Side Effects

The most common side effects of cefpodoxime proxetil and potassium clavulanate tablets include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Skin rash

Table 2: Common Side Effects of Cefpodoxime Proxetil and Potassium Clavulanate Tablets

Drug Interactions

Cefpodoxime proxetil and potassium clavulanate tablets may interact with the following medications:

• Antacids: Antacids can reduce the absorption of cefpodoxime proxetil. It is recommended to take cefpodoxime proxetil at least 2 hours before or after taking an antacid.
• Probenecid: Probenecid can increase the blood levels of cefpodoxime proxetil. It is recommended to avoid taking probenecid while taking cefpodoxime proxetil.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Cefpodoxime proxetil and potassium clavulanate tablets are classified as pregnancy category B. This means that there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Cefpodoxime proxetil and potassium clavulanate tablets should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus.

Cefpodoxime proxetil and