How many days for a course of cefixime, and how many days to stop?

Under normal circumstances, the course of cefixime treatment usually lasts 5–14 days, depending on the type of infection. A specific drug-free interval between courses is generally unnecessary, and it's important to complete the full course of medication. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider in advance. The details are as follows:

The duration of treatment varies significantly depending on the type of infection. For mild infections such as acute bronchitis or uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs), the treatment course typically lasts 5–7 days. For moderate infections like pneumonia or pyelonephritis, the course should be extended to 7–10 days. In cases of acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis or complicated UTIs, treatment may last 10–14 days. The duration should be adjusted based on the control of infection and must not be shortened arbitrarily.

Whether a break between treatment courses is needed depends on the patient’s condition and medical advice. If multiple courses are required, the interval between them should be determined under a doctor’s guidance to avoid developing bacterial resistance due to self-discontinuation or prolonged gaps. If a single course is sufficient to control the infection, no additional drug-free period is necessary—medication can be stopped directly after completing the full course. After stopping the drug, monitor symptoms closely to ensure they have completely resolved and that the infection has been fully cured.

During cefixime treatment, strictly follow the doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and timing; do not miss doses or adjust the dose without authorization. Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment and for 7 days after discontinuation to prevent adverse reactions. If side effects such as rash, nausea, or diarrhea occur, discontinue the medication immediately and inform your doctor.