Cefpodoxime

Antibiotic (cephalosporin)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Cefpodoxime is a antibiotic (cephalosporin) found in 16 medicines sold in India, such as Gudcef 200, Macpod 200, Cepodem 200. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Treats throat, chest, sinus, ear, skin and urine infections.

How it works

An oral third-generation cephalosporin for chest, throat, ear, urinary and skin infections.

How to take it

Usually 100 to 200 mg twice a day with food. Finish the full course.

Common side effects

  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain

Get medical help straight away if

  • Severe diarrhoea
  • Rash with blistering
  • Allergic swelling

Be careful

Finish the course; can cause loose motions.

Other medicines and interactions

Antacids and acid reducers reduce absorption. Caution with penicillin allergy.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Brands of Cefpodoxime (7)

Cefredrox 200 DtCepodem 200Gudcef 200Macpod 200Microcef-200 DTOxipod-200Safepodox-200

Combination medicines that contain Cefpodoxime (9)

Cefoprox CV-325Cepodem XP 325Foloup-CV 200Gudcef CV 200Kefmax CV 200Microcef CV 200Opox-CV 200Pecef Duo-200Polypod CV 200

Common questions

What is Cefpodoxime used for?

Treats throat, chest, sinus, ear, skin and urine infections.

How does Cefpodoxime work?

An oral third-generation cephalosporin for chest, throat, ear, urinary and skin infections.

How should I take Cefpodoxime?

Usually 100 to 200 mg twice a day with food. Finish the full course.

What are the side effects of Cefpodoxime?

Common: Diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain. Get help straight away for: Severe diarrhoea, rash with blistering, allergic swelling.

Does Cefpodoxime interact with other medicines?

Antacids and acid reducers reduce absorption. Caution with penicillin allergy.

Is Cefpodoxime safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Cefpodoxime need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Cefpodoxime?

Cefoprox CV-325, Cefredrox 200 Dt, Cepodem 200, Cepodem XP 325, Foloup-CV 200, Gudcef 200, Gudcef CV 200, Kefmax CV 200, Macpod 200, Microcef CV 200, Microcef-200 DT, Opox-CV 200, Oxipod-200, Pecef Duo-200, Polypod CV 200, Safepodox-200.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.