Cefixime is available under several brand names, with Suprax being one of the most recognized [1]. It is also marketed under the brand name Dynabac [2].
What other brand names are Cefixime sold under?
Beyond Suprax and Dynabac, Cefixime is sold globally under various other brand names. For example, in some markets, it may be found as Cefixoral, Cefixim, Cefixim-DR, Cefixime Trihydrate, Cefiximex, Cefixim-Q, Cefiximax, Cefixim-100, Cefixim-200, Cefixim-Q-Tabs, Cefixim-Tabs, Cefixim-100-Tabs, Cefixim-200-Tabs, Cefixim-DS, Cefixim-DTS, and Cefixime Tablets [3]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks these various brand names and their associated patent information [3].
How does Cefixime work?
Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic [4]. It functions by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, which is essential for bacterial survival [5]. This mechanism leads to the death of susceptible bacteria [5].
When does Cefixime patent exclusivity end?
The patent exclusivity for Cefixime has largely expired in major markets, allowing for the availability of generic versions. For instance, U.S. patents related to Cefixime expired around the early 2000s, with some formulations and specific uses having later expiry dates [6]. Detailed patent timelines for Cefixime and its associated formulations can be found on DrugPatentWatch.com [3].
Can I get generic Cefixime?
Yes, due to the expiry of primary patents, generic versions of Cefixime are widely available in many countries [6]. These generic formulations contain the same active ingredient and are therapeutically equivalent to the brand-name products [4].
What infections is Cefixime used to treat?
Cefixime is prescribed to treat a range of bacterial infections. These commonly include acute otitis media (ear infections), bronchitis, pharyngitis and tonsillitis, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) [7]. It is also used for gonorrhea [7].
What are the common side effects of Cefixime?
Common side effects associated with Cefixime include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain [8]. Some individuals may also experience headaches or dizziness [8]. More serious, though less common, side effects can include allergic reactions and severe intestinal conditions like C. difficile-associated diarrhea [8].
What is the difference between Cefixime and other cephalosporins?
Cefixime belongs to the third generation of cephalosporins, which are known for their broader spectrum of activity against Gram-negative bacteria compared to earlier generations [9]. While all cephalosporins work by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis, differences in their chemical structure lead to variations in their spectrum of activity, pharmacokinetic properties, and susceptibility to bacterial resistance mechanisms [9]. For example, compared to first-generation cephalosporins, third-generation drugs like Cefixime are generally more potent against Gram-negative bacteria and are often more stable in the presence of beta-lactamases, enzymes produced by some bacteria to resist antibiotics [9].
Sources
1. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/suprax
2. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/dynabac
3. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/cefixime
4. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/cefixime/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544343/
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22995450/
7. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/5948/smpc
8. https://www.drugs.com/sfx/cefixime-side-effects.html
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3487251/