Cefixime trihydrate?

Cefixime trihydrate is the hydrated salt form of the antibiotic cefixime, a third‑generation cephalosporin. The “trihydrate” means three water molecules accompany each cefixime molecule in the solid form. The active part is cefixime; the trihydrate is simply the salt used in many tablet and suspension formulations.

Key points:
- Uses: Treats infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including acute otitis media, sinusitis, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, bronchitis, and uncomplicated gonorrhea (uncomplicated cases).
- Mechanism: Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis (binds penicillin‑binding proteins); bactericidal.
- Common dosing (ranges; varies by infection, age, and product strength):
- Adults: often 400 mg every 12 hours (some indications may use 200 mg every 12 hours or 400 mg once daily).
- Children: about 8 mg/kg/day in two divided doses (maximum around 400 mg/day total, depending on infection and guidelines).
- Gonorrhea: a single 400 mg dose.
Note: Exact dosing depends on the infection and local guidelines; follow the prescription label or your clinician’s directions. Also, many tablet strengths labeled as “cefixime trihydrate” contain a certain amount of the trihydrate salt; the actual cefixime content is slightly less than the label mg (roughly 89% of the salt mass).
- Important safety:
- Side effects: GI upset (diarrhea, nausea), rash, vomiting, sometimes headache; rare allergic reactions.
- Contraindications: allergy to cefixime or other cephalosporins; caution if you have a penicillin allergy.
- Interactions: antacids or iron supplements can affect absorption; probenecid can raise cefixime levels.
- Renal impairment: dose adjustments may be needed.
- Pregnancy: generally considered compatible, but consult a clinician.
- Formulations: tablets and oral suspension are common; the label strength is given as cefixime trihydrate (the salt form).

If you have a specific infection, age, and the exact product strength (for example, “cefixime trihydrate 400 mg tablet” or a suspension with a certain mg/5 mL), I can help interpret the label and outline a more precise dosing.