Experiencing Adverse Effects from Cefpodoxime?
I am a 34-year-old woman weighing 170 pounds. My doctor prescribed me 300mg of cefpodoxime to treat a bacterial infection affecting my urinary tract and kidneys. Now on the third day of this antibiotic, I feel worse than before. Severe tiredness and cognitive fog have combined with an unsettling sensation throughout my body, reminiscent of restless legs. Getting out of bed has become a struggle, and something definitely feels off with my body. While I don’t have a fever, I do experience intense heat and flushing, along with significant agitation. I’m contemplating whether I should return to urgent care, and I’m unsure about the next steps to take.
Answers (1)
12/17/2025, 4:10:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling worse while on cefpodoxime. The symptoms you're describing, such as severe tiredness, cognitive fog, and unsettling sensations, could be signs of an adverse reaction to the antibiotic or possibly a result of the infection itself.
Main Points:
- Potential side effects: While cefpodoxime can be effective for treating infections, some people do experience side effects, including fatigue and neurological symptoms.
- Monitoring symptoms: Given the mix of symptoms you've shared, it's essential to keep track of any changes, especially if they worsen.
Explanation:
Antibiotics like cefpodoxime can cause a variety of side effects, though severe reactions are less common. Your symptoms of tiredness, cognitive fog, and agitation might indeed be a result of how your body is reacting to the medication, or they could reflect the stress your body is under due to the infection. The intense heat and flushing could also indicate a reaction or an underlying issue that needs attention.
Next Steps:
- Monitor your symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting their severity and any new ones that develop over the next day or two.
- Stay hydrated and rest: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids and getting adequate rest to support your body while it copes with the infection and medication.
- Reevaluate your situation: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, such as experiencing significant agitation, difficulty breathing, or confusion, returning to urgent care is the best course of action. They can assess whether you are experiencing a reaction to the medication or if there's another issue at play.
- Consider adjusting medications: If you do return to urgent care, discuss your symptoms with the healthcare providers. They may consider switching you to a different antibiotic or taking other measures to support your recovery.
Please take care, and don't hesitate to reach out for help if you feel your condition is worsening. Your wellbeing is the priority.
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