Cefpodoxime (Rx)

Cefpodoxime (Rx)
Why our vets recommend it
Cefpodoxime is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that’s effective against a variety of bacterial infections, including skin, bladder, and respiratory infections.
Medication information
What is cefpodoxime?
What is cefpodoxime?
Cefpodoxime is a prescription medication for dogs to treat bacterial infections of the skin including wounds and abscesses, as well as bladder and respiratory infections. Plus, since this medication comes in an uncoated tablet form, it can be easily disguised in your dog’s favorite food.
What does cefpodoxime treat?
What does cefpodoxime treat?
Conditions that cefpodoxime treats include:
- Bacterial skin infections, including wounds and abscesses
- Bladder infections
- Respiratory infections
How is cefpodoxime given?
How is cefpodoxime given?
Give orally following the instructions from your veterinarian.
Who is cefpodoxime for?
Who is cefpodoxime for?
Dogs and off-label for cats
What is the active ingredient in cefpodoxime?
What is the active ingredient in cefpodoxime?
Cefpodoxime proxetil
Generic for Simplicef and Cefpoderm
What are the possible side effects of cefpodoxime?
What are the possible side effects of cefpodoxime?
Stop administering and seek emergency veterinary medical care in the event of an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; hives; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; rash; or fainting), severe nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, mucus or blood in the stool, and unusual bleeding or bruising. Other, less serious side effects such as mild nausea, diarrhea, or yeast infection may be more likely to occur. If you have questions about any side effects, reach out to your vet.
Be sure to tell your vet about any medications, vitamins, or supplements that your pet is taking.

Safety Information
The following adverse reactions have been reported: vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite.2
Warnings
The safety of cefpodoxime proxetil in dogs used for breeding, pregnant dogs, or lactating dogs has not been demonstrated. As with other cephalosporins, cefpodoxime proxetil may occasionally induce a positive direct Coombs’ test.1
Human Warnings
Not for human use. Keep this and all drugs out of reach of children. Antimicrobial drugs, including penicillins and cephalosporins, can cause allergic reactions in sensitized individuals. To minimize the possibility of allergic reactions, those handling such antimicrobials, including cefpodoxime, are advised to avoid direct contact of the product with the skin and mucous membranes.1
References
- Dechra. Cefpoderm Tablets Prescribing Information. Dechra Pharmaceuticals, https://www.dechra-us.com//Files/Files/ProductDownloads/US/M230099-Cefpoderm-Tablets-PI.pdf.
- Dechra. Cefpoderm (Cefpodoxime Proxetil) Tablets for Dogs. Dechra Pharmaceuticals,
- https://www.dechra-us.com/our-products/us/companion-animal/dog/prescription/cefpoderm-cefpodoxime-proxetil-tablets#100mg.
How to get prescriptions from our online vets
Pick a plan and become a member
Schedule a video call with a licensed vet
Order the prescriptions the vet recommends
Get unlimited care & follow-ups