cefixime
(Suprax)
Cefixime is an antibiotic of the
cephalosporin family used to treat many
infections including gonorrhea, pelvic
inflammatory disease (PID), and kidney
infection.
Important: Watch for allergic reaction.
Side effects: Upset stomach, diarrhea,
headache
Often comes in: tablets of 200 or
400 mg; liquid of 100 mg in 5 ml
How to use:
For gonorrhea, take 400 mg by mouth,
one time only.
For drug combinations to treat
vaginal discharge or PID, see page
162.
For kidney infection, take 500 mg by
mouth 2 times a day for 10 days.
Other medicines that may work:
For gonorrhea: doxycyline
For kidney infection: ciprofloxacin,
cotrimoxazole
WARNING: People who have
liver problems should be careful
when taking cefixime. Do not
use if you are allergic to antibiotics of the
cephalosporin family.
cefixime, ciprofloxacin 337
warning!
ciprofloxacin
(Ciloxan, Cipro, Ciprobay)
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic of the
quinolone family, used to treat skin and
kidney infections, and some STIs like
chancroid.
Important: Drink lots of water. You can
eat while taking ciprofloxacin, just avoid
dairy products.
Side effects: Nausea, diarrhea.
vomiting, headache
Often comes in: Tablets of 250, 500,
or 750 mg
How to use:
For chancroid, take 500 mg by mouth 2
times a day for 3 days.
For infection after childbirth, take
500 mg by mouth 2 times a day.
For kidney infection, take 500 mg by
mouth 2 times a day for 10 days.
Other medicines that may work:
For gonorrhea: cefixime
For chancroid: azithromycin,
erythromycin
For kidney infection: cefixime,
cotrimoxazole
WARNING: This medicine reacts with
caffeine (in coffee, chocolate, cola drinks,
etc.), making the caffeine even stronger.
Do not take with dairy products. Do
not use if you are pregnant,
breastfeeding, or younger than
16 years old.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007