Suprax (cefixime)

THE ONLINE CLINIC NO LONGER PRESCRIBES THIS MEDICATION.

What is Suprax (cefixime)?

Cefixime is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections and is available in tablet or oral suspension form. It is part of a group of antibiotics referred to as cephalosporins and is sometimes known under the brand name Suprax. Cefixime was formerly prescribed to treat patients with Gonorrhoea, but this is no longer recommended. Gonorrhoea requires an intramuscular injection of Ceftriaxone.

Can I buy Suprax (cefixime)?

The Online Clinic no longer prescribes Cefixime as a single agent. It can be prescribed alongside Azithromycin to treat Gonorrhoea when the intramuscular alternative cannot be accessed (such as during the Covid-19 public health crisis).

How does Suprax (cefixime) work?

Cefixime works by destroying a layer of the cell wall of the bacteria, which causes the wall to break down. Without their cell wall to protect them, the bacteria die.

Are there any side effects of Suprax (cefixime)?

Generally, Cefixime does not cause side effects. Occasionally patients may experience mild stomach cramps or diarrhoea. It can also lead to fungus naturally present in the body overgrowing, which can cause sores inside the mouth or vaginal yeast infections.

Rarely, side effects can include pain urinating, chest pain, fever or colitis.

Who cannot take Suprax (Cefixime)?

Cefixime is not suitable if you are allergic to any of the ingredients or cephalosporin antibiotics generally.

What is now prescribed to deal with a Gonorrhoea infection?

Cefixime used to be given alongside Azithromycin as a single dose to treat Gonorrhoea. The recommended treatment for Gonorrhoea is now an intramuscular injection of an antibiotic called Ceftriaxone along with oral Azithromycin. You should not take antibiotics for a possible STI without knowing what STI (if any) you actually have. Failure to identify the exact infection could lead to antibiotics losing their effectiveness. We recommend The STI Clinic for sexual health checks.