Cefpodoxime
(sef-poe-docks-eem)

• Description: Cephalosporin Antibiotic
• Other Names for this Medication: Simplicef®, Vantin®
• Common Dosage Forms: Veterinary: 100 mg & 200 mg tablets
• Antimicrobial Classification: Critically Important

Key Information:

• Can be given with or without food, but gastrointestinal side effects (eg, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea) might be prevented if given with food.
• If your animal vomits or acts sick after receiving the drug on an empty stomach, try giving the next dose with food or a small treat.
• If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian.
• Most common side effects are vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Be sure to give this antibioitic as long as veterinarian has prescribed, even if your animal seems better.
• Cephalosporin antibiotics have an odor that resembles cat urine, but this is normal.

How is this medication useful?

In dogs and cats, cefpodoxime is most commonly used to treat skin infections, but may be used to treat infections of the respiratory and urinary tracts. The FDA has approved this drug for use in dogs. The FDA allows veterinarians to prescribe and use products containing this drug in different species or for other conditions in certain situations. You and your veterinarian can discuss why this drug is the most appropriate choice.

How long until I will know if this medication is working, and how long will the effects of this medication last?

This medication should start having effects within 1 to 2 hours; however, you may not see the effects of this medication outwardly. Your animal should begin feeling better within 1 to 2 days.
The effects of this medication are short-lived, meaning they will stop working within 24 hours, although the benefits may be prolonged if your animal has decreased kidney and/or liver function.

What are the side effects ofthis medication?

Side effects that usually are not serious include:

• Vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.

You don’t have to be overly concerned if you see any of these signs unless they are severe, worsen, or continue to be a problem. Contact your veterinarian if this happens.

Side effects that may be serious orindicate a serious problem:

• Complete loss of appetite in cats can sometimes cause severe liver problems.
• If your cat completely stops eating, contact your veterinarian.
• Fever, rashes, trouble breathing, and pale gums may indicate an allergy to the drug.

If you see any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How should this medication be given?

For this medication to work, give it exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. It’s a good idea to always check the prescription label to be sure you are giving the drug correctly. Cefpodoxime can be given with or withoutfood; if your animal vomits or acts sick after receiving the drug on an empty stomach, try giving the next dose with food or a small treat.

If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian. Liquid forms of this medication must be measured carefully, stored in the refrigerator, and shaken well before giving. Your
veterinarian or pharmacist can help by providing special measuring spoons or syringes.

If you have difficulty getting your animal to take the medicine, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist for tips to help dosing and reduce the stress of medication time for both you and your animal. This medication can be given for various lengths of time.

Be sure you understand how long your veterinarian wants you to continue giving this medication. Prescription refills may be necessary before the therapy will be complete. Before stopping this medication, talk to your veterinarian, as there may be importantreasons to continue its use.

If you have any other questions aboutthis medication, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.