Cefixime generally starts to work within a few hours after taking the medication, with many patients beginning to feel better within a few days. However, the full course of treatment, often lasting from 5 to 14 days depending on the infection, should be completed to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to prevent resistance. For certain infections like gonorrhea, it may take about 7 to 14 days to be effective. Symptoms improvement is usually noticed in the initial days, but completing the medication as prescribed is crucial even if feeling better sooner.

Overview of Onset and Duration

• Initial effects can begin within a few hours to days.
• Feeling better typically happens in the first few days.
• Full treatment duration varies (commonly 5 to 14 days).
• Continuing the full prescribed course is important despite symptom improvement.

Specific Conditions

• For gonorrhea, cefixime may take about 7 to 14 days to fully work.
• For respiratory tract infections, UTIs, or other bacterial infections, symptom relief tends to occur in the first few days.

Important Notes

• Cefixime will not work for viral infections such as colds or flu.
• Stopping the medication early may result in incomplete treatment and antibiotic resistance.
• If symptoms do not improve or worsen within a few days, medical advice should be sought.

This guidance ensures safe and effective use of cefixime in treating bacterial infections.