Comprehensive medication guide to {drug} including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.
Cefpodoxime (brand name Vantin, now discontinued) is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is FDA-approved for acute otitis media (ear infections), pharyngitis, tonsillitis, community-acquired pneumonia, acute bronchitis exacerbations, sinusitis, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, uncomplicated gonorrhea, and skin infections. It is available as a generic medication from several manufacturers including Sandoz, Aurobindo, Lupin, and Teva. Cefpodoxime is commonly prescribed for both adults and children and is considered a reliable option when first-line antibiotics like amoxicillin are not appropriate.
Cefpodoxime proxetil is a prodrug — it is absorbed in the intestines and converted to its active form, cefpodoxime. Once active, it works by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) on bacterial cell walls. This inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis, causing the bacteria to lyse (burst) and die. As a third-generation cephalosporin, cefpodoxime has strong activity against many gram-negative bacteria while retaining useful gram-positive coverage. Tablets should be taken with food to maximize absorption.
Adults typically take 100–400 mg every 12 hours depending on the infection being treated. Children (2 months to 12 years) are dosed at 10 mg/kg/day divided every 12 hours, up to a maximum of 200 mg per dose. Patients with kidney impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min) should take their dose every 24 hours instead of every 12 hours.
Cefpodoxime earns a findability score of 82 out of 100, meaning it is generally available at most pharmacies in tablet form. However, the oral suspension (liquid form used primarily for children) has been on the ASHP drug shortage list intermittently since 2018, with ongoing supply issues driven by limited manufacturers and supply chain disruptions. If you need cefpodoxime tablets, you should have little trouble finding them. If you need the oral suspension, you may need to call around or use Medfinder to locate a pharmacy that has it in stock.
Struggling to find {drug} in stock? We'll call the pharmacies, sit on hold, and find you one that can fill your prescription.
Cefpodoxime is commonly prescribed by a wide range of healthcare providers, including:
Cefpodoxime is also available through telehealth appointments, making it convenient to get a prescription without an in-person visit.
No. Cefpodoxime is not a controlled substance and has no DEA scheduling. It is a prescription antibiotic with no potential for abuse or dependence. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain it, but there are no additional regulatory restrictions beyond a standard prescription.
Most side effects of cefpodoxime are mild and temporary. Common side effects include:
Serious but rare side effects include Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (severe watery diarrhea), severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), Stevens-Johnson syndrome, seizures (especially with kidney impairment), and hemolytic anemia. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe diarrhea, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a widespread rash.
If cefpodoxime is unavailable or not suitable for you, your doctor may consider these alternatives:
Always consult your doctor before switching antibiotics, as the best choice depends on your specific infection and medical history.
Cefpodoxime can interact with several other medications:
Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and antacids you are taking before starting cefpodoxime.
Cefpodoxime is a well-established, effective third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that treats a broad range of bacterial infections in both adults and children. The tablet form is widely available and affordable, especially with discount cards that can bring the price down to as low as $15–$30 per course. The oral suspension for children has faced intermittent shortages, so if you need the liquid form, use Medfinder to quickly locate a pharmacy that has it in stock. With solid insurance coverage, low cost, and broad availability, cefpodoxime remains a reliable antibiotic option in 2026.
%2C%20Color%3DOriginal.png)
