Cefixime in the UK — uses, safety and how to get it

Cefixime is an oral third‑generation cephalosporin antibiotic you’ll see prescribed for certain bacterial infections. It’s useful because you can take it by mouth, but like all antibiotics it’s prescription‑only in the UK. That means a GP or an authorised prescriber needs to assess you first — and that makes a big difference for safety and effectiveness.

What cefixime treats and how it’s usually used

Doctors prescribe cefixime for infections such as some urinary tract infections, certain respiratory infections and specific sexually transmitted infections. Typical adult dosing you might hear about is 400 mg once daily or 200 mg twice daily, but exact dose and length of treatment depend on the type of infection and your medical history. Never change dose or stop early without talking to your prescriber — stopping early can let bacteria survive and become resistant.

How to get cefixime safely in the UK

Only use pharmacies or prescribers registered in the UK. If you look for online pharmacies, check the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) entry and the pharmacy’s NHS or MHRA details. Legitimate UK services will ask for a valid prescription or run a proper online consultation with a qualified clinician. Avoid sites that sell without asking medical questions — counterfeit or substandard antibiotics are a real risk.

When you receive the medicine, confirm packaging is sealed and the tablet appearance matches official descriptions. If anything looks off, don’t take it and report the seller to MHRA.

Ask your GP about cost options: prescriptions in England have a fixed charge unless you’re exempt. In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland prescriptions are usually free, but always check the latest regional rules.

Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain and skin rash. Severe allergic reactions are rare but can be serious — seek immediate help if you get swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. Also mention any history of penicillin allergy to your prescriber; cross‑reactivity is uncommon but should be checked.

Cefixime can interact with some medicines. For example, it can affect blood thinner monitoring (warfarin), so your doctor may want to check your INR if you’re on warfarin. Tell your prescriber about all medicines, herbal products and supplements you take.

If you suspect treatment failure — symptoms not improving after the expected time or getting worse — contact your GP. Persistent or recurring infections may need culture tests and a different antibiotic based on sensitivity results.

Quick tips: keep full treatment even if you feel better, store according to the leaflet, don’t share antibiotics, and use registered UK providers for prescriptions and supply. When in doubt, ask your GP or local pharmacist — it’s the safest route.