Ceftibuten (By Mouth)

Ceftibuten (sef-TYE-byoo-ten)

Treats infections caused by bacteria. Belongs to a class of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics.

Brand Name(s):

Cedax
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to ceftibuten or any other cephalosporin medicine (some brand names are Keflex®, Ceclor®, Suprax®, and Velosef®).

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• Keep taking your medicine for as long as your doctor has ordered, even if you feel better. If you stop taking the medicine too soon, your infection may come back.
• Shake the oral liquid bottle well each time before taking the medicine.
• Take the oral liquid medicine at least 2 hours before a meal or 1 hour after a meal.
• Measure your dose of oral liquid carefully with a measuring spoon or medicine cup.

If a dose is missed:

• Take your medicine as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for your next dose.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Keep the oral liquid in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
• Store the capsules at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, or direct light.
• Throw away any unused oral liquid after 14 days.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also taking birth control pills or probenecid (Benemid®, ColBENEMID®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to penicillin antibiotics or any other medicines.
• Ceftibuten may cause incorrect results with some tests used by patients with diabetes to check for sugar in urine.
• The liquid form of ceftibuten contains 1 gram of sucrose (table sugar) in each teaspoon, which may be important to patients with diabetes.
• Be sure to tell your doctor if you have kidney disease or bowel problems such as colitis.
• If the medicine gives you diarrhea, talk to your doctor before taking any medicine to stop the diarrhea.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Rash, hives, or blistering skin
• Swelling in your face or throat
• Wheezing or trouble breathing
• Severe diarrhea (watery or bloody)

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild diarrhea
• Nausea, upset stomach
• Headache
• Sore mouth or tongue
• Vaginal itching or discharge

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.