Can't find cefpodoxime at your pharmacy? Learn about effective alternatives like cefdinir, cefixime, and cefuroxime that your doctor may prescribe instead.
Your doctor prescribed cefpodoxime, but your pharmacy doesn't have it. Now what? Between intermittent shortages and limited generic manufacturers, this is a situation more patients are facing in 2026. The good news is that cefpodoxime isn't the only antibiotic that can treat your infection. Several effective alternatives exist, and your doctor can help you choose the right one.
In this guide, we'll explain what cefpodoxime is, how it works, and walk you through the most common alternatives your doctor might consider.
Cefpodoxime proxetil (formerly sold as Vantin) is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic available as tablets (100 mg and 200 mg) and an oral suspension for children. Doctors prescribe it for infections like:
For a deeper look at its uses and dosing, see our complete guide: What is cefpodoxime?
Cefpodoxime is a prodrug — meaning your body converts it into its active form after you swallow it. Once activated, it attacks bacteria by blocking their ability to build cell walls. Without a cell wall, bacteria can't survive, and the infection clears up.
Because cefpodoxime belongs to the cephalosporin family, other drugs in the same class work in a very similar way. That's why alternatives within this class are often effective substitutes. For a full explanation, read how cefpodoxime works.
The best alternative for you depends on the type of infection you have, your allergy history, and what's available at your pharmacy. Here are the most commonly prescribed substitutes:
Drug class: Third-generation cephalosporin
Available as: Capsules (300 mg) and oral suspension (125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL)
Commonly used for: Ear infections, sinus infections, strep throat, bronchitis, skin infections
Cefdinir is one of the closest alternatives to cefpodoxime. It's in the same drug class and treats most of the same infections. It can be taken once or twice daily and doesn't need to be taken with food. The liquid form is widely available, making it a popular choice for children. Cash price is typically $15-$40 with a discount card.
Drug class: Third-generation cephalosporin
Available as: Tablets (400 mg), chewable tablets (100 mg, 200 mg), and oral suspension (100 mg/5 mL, 200 mg/5 mL)
Commonly used for: UTIs, ear infections, bronchitis, uncomplicated gonorrhea
Cefixime is another third-generation cephalosporin with a similar spectrum of activity. One advantage: it's taken once daily, which can be more convenient. It's often used when cefpodoxime isn't available for UTIs and ear infections. Pricing is typically $14-$90 depending on formulation.
Drug class: Second-generation cephalosporin
Available as: Tablets (250 mg, 500 mg) and oral suspension (125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL)
Commonly used for: Sinus infections, ear infections, bronchitis, UTIs, skin infections, early Lyme disease
Cefuroxime is a second-generation cephalosporin, which means it has slightly broader coverage against some gram-positive bacteria. It's well-established, widely available, and treats most of the same conditions as cefpodoxime. It should be taken with food. Typical cost with a discount card: $15-$35.
Drug class: Penicillin / beta-lactamase inhibitor combination
Available as: Tablets (250/125 mg, 500/125 mg, 875/125 mg), chewable tablets, and oral suspension
Commonly used for: Sinus infections, ear infections, bronchitis, skin infections, UTIs
Augmentin isn't a cephalosporin — it's a penicillin-based antibiotic combined with clavulanate to broaden its effectiveness. It's one of the most widely prescribed antibiotics in the world and is often available when cephalosporins aren't. Note: If you have a true penicillin allergy, this is not a suitable substitute. Cost with a discount card is typically $10-$25.
While these alternatives treat many of the same infections, you should never switch antibiotics without talking to your doctor. Different infections require different antibiotics, and the right choice depends on:
Call your prescriber's office and let them know cefpodoxime isn't available. They can call in a new prescription — often within the same day.
Before switching, it's worth checking if another pharmacy near you has cefpodoxime in stock. Use Medfinder to search real-time availability. The tablets are generally easier to find than the oral suspension, so if you're an adult, you may have more luck. For more tips, read our guide on how to find cefpodoxime in stock near you.
Not being able to fill your prescription is stressful, but effective alternatives to cefpodoxime are readily available. Cefdinir, cefixime, cefuroxime, and amoxicillin-clavulanate all work well for many of the same infections. Talk to your doctor about the best substitute for your situation, and use Medfinder to check stock before you drive to the pharmacy.
For more on the current availability situation, see our cefpodoxime shortage update for 2026.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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