Cefpodoxime: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
Cefpodoxime proxetil is indicated for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the conditions listed below.
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label 9d6d7f50…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
| Adverse reaction (as reported in labeling) | Reported frequency* |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea | 7% |
| Nausea | 3.3% |
| Vulvovaginal infections | 1.3% |
| Abdominal pain | 1.2% |
| Vaginal fungal infections | 1% |
| Headache | 1% |
*Highest percentage reported for the active moiety across placebo-controlled trial tables in current FDA labeling. Values reflect trial reporting, not your individual risk.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
Cefpodoxime proxetil is indicated for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the conditions listed below. Recommended dosages, durations of therapy, and applicable patient populations vary among these infections. Please see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION for specific recommendations. Acute otitis media caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (excluding penicillin-resistant strains), Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemophilusinfluenzae (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), or Moraxella (Branhamella) catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase-producing strains). Pharyngitis and/or tonsillitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes . NOTE: Only penicillin by the intramuscular route of administration has been shown to be effective in the prophylaxis of rheumatic fever. Cefpodoxime proxetil is generally effective in the eradication of streptococci from the oropharynx. However, data establishing the efficacy of cefpodoxime proxetil for the prophylaxis of subsequent rheumatic fever are not available. Community-acquired pneumonia caused by S. pneumoniae or H. Influenzae (including beta-lactamase-producing strains). Acute bac…
Conditions associated with Cefpodoxime in labeling
COPD
A group of progressive lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that cause airflow obstructi...
Ear Infection (Otitis Media)
Infection or inflammation of the middle ear, common in children, causing ear pain, fever, and sometimes fluid ...
Otitis Media
Infection or inflammation of the middle ear, common in children, causing ear pain, fever, and sometimes hearin...
Pneumonia
Infection of the lung tissue that can cause cough, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Can be caused by b...
Rheumatic fever
Rheumatic fever is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
Tonsillitis
Inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infection, causing sore throat, fever, and swo...
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cefpodoxime used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Cefpodoxime?
The table above shows adverse reactions and the highest frequencies reported in placebo-controlled trials summarized in current FDA labeling for Cefpodoxime. Individual risk varies.
Does Cefpodoxime require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Cefpodoxime.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.