Sodium Bicarbonate - Vantin (Cefpodoxime Proxetil) Interaction
Herbal: Sodium Bicarbonate
Drug: Cefpodoxime Proxetil
Brand names:
Vantin

Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 25, 2025
Interaction Details
Cefpodoxime Proxetil is classified as belonging to the following category: Cefpodoxime Proxetil (Vantin)
Theoretically, sodium bicarbonate might reduce the levels and clinical effects of cefpodoxime.
Cefpodoxime proxetil is an oral prodrug that is de-esterified in the intestine to the active drug cefpodoxime. Drugs or supplements that increase gastric pH can inhibit the activation of cefpodoxime proxetil and reduce the peak plasma concentrations of cefpodoxime. In humans, taking sodium bicarbonate 12.6 grams orally along with cefpodoxime proxetil 200 mg reduces peak plasma concentrations and area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) of cefpodoxime by 35% to 50%.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
ProbableInteraction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
References
- Hughes, G. S., Heald, D. L., Barker, K. B., Patel, R. K., Spillers, C. R., Watts, K. C., Batts, D. H., and Euler, A. R. The effects of gastric pH and food on the pharmacokinetics of a new oral cephalosporin, cefpodoxime proxetil. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1989;
Cefpodoxime Proxetil Overview
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Cefpodoxime is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria such as bronchitis (infection of the airway tubes leading to the lungs); pneumonia; gonorrhea (a sexually transmitted disease); and infections of the skin, ear, sinuses, throat, tonsils, and urinary tract. Cefpodoxime is in a class of medications called cephalosporin antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
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Antibiotics such as cefpodoxime will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
Sodium Bicarbonate - More Interactions
Sodium Bicarbonate interacts with 257 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
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Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.