Cefpodoxime is a cephalosporin. Cephalosporins are a group of antibiotics used to treat infections caused by gram positive and gram negative bacteria. Cephalosporins are most commonly used to treat respiratory, skeletal, urinary, skin and soft tissue infections.

Dogs

Cefpodoxime is used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, such as wounds and abscesses as well as bladder and respiratory infections.

cefpodoxime

Side effects may include stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea. If stomach upset occurs, try giving the medication with food. These symptoms may go away during treatment. If these symptoms continue, contact your veterinarian. Adverse effects with cephalosporins have a relatively low frequency and are usually not serious. However, if your pet experiences signs of allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or hives) contact your veterinarian immediately.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Cefpodoxime should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian. Use all of the medication prescribed, even if your pet appears well. If the entire course of treatment is not given, the infection may recur or worsen.

This medication does not have an FDA approved indication for use in animals, but it is a common and acceptable practice for veterinarians to prescribe this human medication for use in animals.

Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving your pet. Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely. The following drugs can potentially interact with cefpodoxime and reduce its absorption (may reduce the effectiveness of the medication): antacids, omeprazole, and H2-antagonists such as cimetidine, famotidine, ranitidine. Probenecid may increase the levels of this drug. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Be sure to inform your veterinarian if your pet has any known drug sensitivities or allergies. If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your veterinarian immediately or go to a veterinary emergency clinic. Symptoms may include but are not limited to: swollen lips, tongue, face, airways; difficulty breathing; agitation; profuse salivation; vomiting; widespread hives and itching.