Livro

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Livro

Property Description
Active ingredient Cefixime
Form Tablet, Capsule, Oral Suspension
Pharmacological class Third-Generation Cephalosporin Antibiotic
General purpose Elimination of bacterial pathogens
Origin Synthetic

Livro is the brand name for a synthetic antibiotic whose active substance is Cefixime. It is classified as a beta-Lactam antibiotic and, more precisely, a third-generation cephalosporin. The drug’s core function is to act as a bactericidal agent, working to destroy harmful bacterial pathogens that cause infection.

The status of Cefixime as a third-generation cephalosporin is clinically recognized for its broad spectrum of activity and superior resistance to degradation by beta-lactamase enzymes when compared to earlier generations. This capability makes it a robust option in the fight against common resistant bacteria. Livro is strictly a prescription-only medicine, underscoring its role in targeted, physician-directed antimicrobial therapy.


Composition, Origin, and Available Forms of Livro

Livro is a single active ingredient product designed for oral administration. The active compound, Cefixime, is chemically synthetic in origin.

The medicine is commonly available in multiple dosage form(s), including solid presentations like tablets and capsules, alongside a liquid oral suspension or a powder for oral suspension. This liquid presentation, in particular, allows for flexible delivery of the active substance to different patient populations, including pediatric patients. The product's formulation is further distinguished by incorporating specific inactive excipients necessary for the medication's stability and consistent delivery.


How Cefixime Acts as a Bactericidal Agent

The mechanism of Cefixime is decisively bactericidal, meaning it actively kills targeted bacteria by disrupting their structure. It achieves this by directly interfering with the final step of cell wall synthesis—specifically, by inhibiting peptidoglycan cross-linking. This mechanism prevents the bacteria from forming the rigid, protective layer essential for survival. This structural failure leads to the cell's collapse and death, providing the intended therapeutic benefit of pathogen elimination.

What side effects are possible with Livro?

Possible side effects and safety information for Livro

This section outlines adverse reactions and required safety monitoring as documented in official governmental regulatory documents.

Adverse Reaction Categories

The most frequent adverse events associated with Livro are generally classified under Gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., nausea and diarrhea) and Nervous system disorders (e.g., headache). These are often designated as Very Common or Common based on regulatory frequency frameworks. Less common reactions have been reported across Hepatobiliary and Blood and lymphatic system disorders.

Serious and Clinically Significant Adverse Reactions

The official labeling highlights the potential for severe hepatotoxicity, including cases of hepatic failure, as a rare but serious risk. Additionally, instances of agranulocytosis (a severe reduction in white blood cells) and severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson Syndrome) are explicitly noted in the safety summary. The labeling may include a Boxed Warning regarding the potential for fatal liver injury.

Safety Monitoring and Restrictions

Livro is contraindicated in patients with a known prior hypersensitivity to the compound or with pre-existing severe hepatic impairment. Due to the risk of liver and hematological issues, mandatory safety monitoring is required, including baseline and periodic testing of liver function (ALT/AST) and complete blood counts. Use in specific populations, such as pediatric patients, may present a differing safety profile or remain unestablished, requiring particular caution and monitoring as defined in the official documentation.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory documentation states that the clinical presentation following an overdose of Livro (Cefixime) may not differ significantly from the adverse reactions experienced during normal therapeutic use, based on studies of single doses up to 2g. Nonetheless, the regulatory labeling for the cephalosporin class emphasizes the potential for severe neurotoxicity. The most serious manifestation documented in this context is the risk of seizures, which necessitates rapid intervention and monitoring in a clinical setting.


When Urgent Medical Help is Required

Immediate medical attention is required for all severe or life-threatening symptoms. Contact emergency services (e.g., 911) if a person has collapsed, experienced a seizure, has trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened. Treatment for an overdose is defined as strictly symptomatic and supportive, which may include specific procedures like anticonvulsant therapy for seizures, as no specific antidote is known.

Overdose Management and Risk Factors Official Regulatory Statement
Procedural Limitations The drug is not removed in significant quantities by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, which limits the ability of these procedures to effectively clear the substance from the systemic circulation during a toxic event.
Population Vulnerability Patients with renal impairment are officially noted to be at an increased risk for overdose toxicity, including severe events, if the prescribed dosage is not reduced to account for decreased drug clearance.

Therapeutic Uses of Livro

What Livro Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Livro (Cefixime) is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic commonly used to address acute bacterial infections across several key bodily systems. Its therapeutic relevance is in conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes caused by susceptible bacteria, which may assist with the overall process of recovery from infection and may assist with the process of easing distress.

The medication is applied across domains where short-term symptomatic support is needed, including acute otitis media, streptococcal pharyngitis/tonsillitis, acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs).

“It may be part of symptomatic management in clinical settings that involve acute or disruptive symptom patterns, especially when physical discomfort and fever are present.”

Livro is commonly used to help with symptom clusters that create noticeable functional strain, such as earaches, sore throat, and painful or urgent urination (dysuria). This may assist with maintaining functional stability and contributes to easing the overall symptom load when symptoms interfere with routine activities.


Quick Fact: Supportive Relief for Acute Discomfort Livro is relevant for easing symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states and localized physical discomfort in bacterial infections, supporting patients during episodes of heightened symptoms.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Livro?

The official eligibility for Livro (Cefixime) is governed by regulatory documents, which define absolute contraindications and population-specific restrictions.


Eligibility Scope

Populations for whom use is contraindicated:

  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient, Cefixime, any other cephalosporin antibacterial, or a history of severe hypersensitivity to any other beta-Lactam antibiotic (e.g., penicillins).

Age-related eligibility rules:

  • Livro is approved for adults and pediatric patients six months of age and older.
  • Safety and efficacy have not been established for infants less than six months of age.
  • Older adults may be eligible but require assessment of renal function.

Condition-specific eligibility rules:

  • Use is restricted and requires careful dose modification for patients with impaired renal function (Creatinine Clearance less than 60 mL/min).
  • Use requires caution in patients with a history of colitis or those receiving anticoagulants.

Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status:

  • Use is generally not recommended during pregnancy or lactation unless deemed clearly essential due to insufficient clinical safety data in humans.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile

Regulatory documents define who can and cannot use the medicine by establishing clear boundaries based on immunological risk, age-specific data, and organ function. This framework ensures that official use is limited to patient populations where the risk profile has been established or is manageable under labeled conditions.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory information highlights several clinically significant interactions requiring specific management or avoidance. These constraints are detailed across three main domains as outlined in government documentation.


Documented Interacting Medicines and Classes

The following table summarizes the main interacting agents as identified in official product labeling:

Interaction Domain Example Medicines/Classes Practical Implication (Official Guidance)
Anticoagulants Warfarin, Antiplatelet Agents Requires close monitoring for bleeding; may necessitate adjustment of the anticoagulant's dose.
Uricosuric Drugs Probenecid Causes increased and prolonged plasma concentrations of Livro; caution or dose management required.
Other Antibiotics Chloramphenicol, Tetracyclines May result in reduced therapeutic efficacy of Livro; concurrent use is generally discouraged.
Gout Medications Allopurinol Documented increased risk of severe skin rash (hypersensitivity reaction).

Official Interaction-Related Restrictions

Official regulatory documents emphasize the need for caution and mandatory clinical monitoring in certain combined therapies. The combination with specific other antibacterials is generally advised against due to the potential for reduced therapeutic effect. The co-administration with anticoagulants requires mandatory clinical and laboratory monitoring to manage the enhanced risk of hemorrhage. The increased risk of hypersensitivity with Allopurinol is explicitly documented and must be considered prior to use.

Mechanism of Action

Targeting Penicillin-Binding Proteins to Induce Bactericidal Activity

The core mechanism of Cefixime (Livro) is focused on the irreversible inhibition of essential bacterial enzymes known as Penicillin-Binding Proteins (PBPs). By binding to these specific targets, the drug blocks the critical final step of peptidoglycan cross-linking, which is necessary to build and maintain the pathogen's protective cell wall structure. This highly targeted molecular interference results in the complete loss of cell integrity.

Mechanistic Cascade: Cell Wall Disruption and Lysis

The direct consequence of inhibiting the PBPs is the creation of a structurally defective bacterial cell wall. This functional failure prevents the cell from withstanding its high internal osmotic pressure, triggering a rapid mechanistic cascade that culminates in cell rupture (lysis) and death. The molecule's third-generation structure provides enhanced stability against many common beta-lactamase enzymes, maintaining its inhibitory capacity.

Understanding Mechanistic Limitations and Resistance

The effectiveness of this mechanism is constrained by bacterial adaptations that prevent the drug from reaching or binding its target. Resistance can arise from alterations in the PBP shape itself, or from the use of active efflux pumps that expel the drug from the bacterial cell interior. This mechanism is inherently irrelevant against certain pathogens, such as those lacking a peptidoglycan wall, defining the physiological boundaries of its activity.

Dosage and Administration Information

Livro (Cefixime) is strictly administered via the oral route as an oral regimen defined by quantity and schedule. The medicine may be taken without regard to food, as its absorption is not significantly affected by meals. The standard course of treatment is generally between 7 and 14 days, but a minimum duration of 10 days is required when addressing infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. Special procedural requirements exist for handling different formulations, such as shaking the oral suspension before use, and noting that the tablet and suspension are not interchangeable for all uses.

Official Dosing and Adjustment Guidelines
Standard Adult Dose: 400 mg daily, administered as a single dose or divided into 200 mg every 12 hours.
Pediatric Use: For children 6 months of age and older, the dose is weight-based at 8 mg/kg/day, given once or divided. Use is not established below 6 months of age.
Renal Impairment: Dose reduction is required for severe kidney impairment. For adults with creatinine clearance le 20 mL/min, the dose must be reduced to 200 mg once daily.

These official guidelines structure the correct use of the medicine, defining the required daily quantity, the acceptable schedule frequency, and necessary modifications for vulnerable populations. This ensures the medicine is administered uniformly according to established regulatory parameters.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of Studies for Livro (Cefixime)

Livro (Cefixime) was evaluated in a variety of official studies, including Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and comprehensive systematic reviews, which contributes to the basis of regulatory evaluations for its use. The research focuses primarily on how symptoms and infections are measured and change during acute episodes, without predicting outcomes for any single person.


Evidence for Use in Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and Ear Infections

Livro was studied for its use in non-pregnant adults with uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and in pediatric patients (children 6 months and older) with Acute Otitis Media (middle ear infection). These evaluations often involve well-designed trials that compare Cefixime to a control or to other existing antibiotic treatments. Research exploring UTIs examined two main areas: microbiological eradication and clinical response, which tracks how symptoms change over time. Studies reported that clearance rates were observed in some study populations shortly after the treatment course ended.

Evidence for Use in Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis and Acute Bronchitis

Livro was evaluated in trials addressing pharyngitis and tonsillitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, as well as acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (AECB) in adults. For throat infections, research examined the rate of bacteriological eradication and how quickly outcomes related to systemic imbalance evolved. For AECB, studies tracked clinical response (change in acute respiratory symptoms). The research in these areas primarily describes patterns of short-term symptom changes and microbiological clearance immediately following the study period.


What Is Still Uncertain about the Evidence for Livro

Evidence for this medication includes well-designed trials, but follow-up durations were often limited. The research provides limited insight into long-term effects or the durability of the response several months after the initial infection. Data for certain groups remain insufficient, particularly in infants younger than six months of age, where efficacy is not established, and in pregnant or breastfeeding populations. Official sources also highlight the need for continuous vigilance regarding antimicrobial resistance trends, which was observed in some studies to shift. Research does not determine whether an individual will respond similarly to the group findings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Livro (FAQ)


Q: What is the main reason Livro is prescribed?

Official regulatory documents list several infections for which Livro is approved, such as infections of the ears, throat, tonsils, urinary tract, and certain types of bronchitis.

Q: Is Livro used for any conditions besides what's listed in the official materials?

This content focuses strictly on the uses and conditions described in official regulatory labeling. Information regarding use for conditions not listed in the approved product information is not provided here.

Q: How quickly does Livro usually start to work?

Regulatory documents indicate that the medicine's active substance can begin to be absorbed shortly after taking it. However, official information does not typically specify an exact 'onset of action' or when a patient may notice a change, as individual response varies. Official information emphasizes the importance of completing the full course as prescribed.

Q: What is the difference between Livro and other similar medicines?

Livro (Cefixime) is classified as a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. This classification is used to describe its structure and spectrum of activity, which includes enhanced stability against certain bacterial enzymes compared to some earlier antibiotic generations.

Q: Is Livro the same type of medicine as [Similar Drug Name]?

Livro is the brand name for the active ingredient Cefixime. It belongs to the class of beta-Lactam third-generation cephalosporin antibiotics.

Q: Is it normal to feel [vague common symptom, e.g., tired] when first starting Livro?

Official documents list adverse reactions affecting the nervous system (like headache) and gastrointestinal system as common. While fatigue or weakness is listed as a less frequent side effect, any symptom that causes concern should be reviewed by a healthcare provider.

Q: Do the side effects of Livro usually go away over time?

Official documents describe the reported adverse reactions, but they do not typically provide information on the expected duration of side effects or how they resolve over the course of treatment.

Q: Can Livro cause long-term health issues?

Official warnings note rare, serious risks such as severe hepatotoxicity (liver damage) and certain blood disorders. Official information requires monitoring of blood work when the medication is used. Regulatory research data specifically on the durability of effects several months after the treatment course is generally limited.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose of Livro?

Official instructions generally advise taking a missed dose as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose is typically skipped to maintain the schedule.

Q: What if I accidentally take too much Livro?

Official documents state that in cases of accidental excess intake, supportive therapy and general measures are used, as there is no specific antidote available.

Q: Does Livro interact with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

Official documents caution about combining Livro with anticoagulants and medicines that have antiplatelet activity (a class including some OTC pain relievers). This is because the combination may increase the risk of bleeding.

Q: Can Livro be taken with vitamins or supplements?

Official product information lists documented drug-drug interactions, but it does not typically provide specific instructions or warnings regarding all general vitamins or supplements.

Q: Does alcohol change the way Livro works?

Official regulatory documents do not list a specific interaction or direct contraindication warning between Livro and alcohol.

Q: Is Livro safe to use for people over 65?

Official information indicates that use in older adults is permitted but requires an assessment of renal function (kidney function). Dose adjustment is mandatory for individuals with severe kidney impairment.

Q: Is Livro a controlled substance?

Livro is classified as a prescription-only medicine (Rx only). Official documents do not designate it as a federally controlled substance, meaning it has no known potential for abuse or dependence.

Q: Is Livro a new medicine, or has it been around for a while?

Official public information confirms that Livro (Cefixime) is an established medicine. It first received regulatory approval in the late 1980s.

Q: Are there different strengths or versions of Livro available?

Livro is available in different dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, and an oral suspension. It is manufactured in common strengths such as 200 mg and 400 mg.

Q: What happens when I stop taking Livro?

Regulatory documents emphasize that the full prescribed course should always be completed. No specific withdrawal or discontinuation effects are noted upon finishing the prescribed course.

Q: Are there any known interactions between Livro and caffeine?

Official regulatory documents do not describe a specific interaction between Livro and caffeine.

Q: Does Livro affect sleep?

Official documents list insomnia (difficulty sleeping) as a reported adverse reaction. Adverse reactions affecting the nervous system (like headache) have also been reported.

Q: What is the success rate described in the Livro research?

Regulatory documents report that studies examined measures such as microbiological eradication (clearing the bacteria) and clinical response (change in symptoms). They do not provide a single, universal 'success rate' percentage for all users.

Q: Is Livro described as habit-forming?

Official documents on drug abuse and dependence state that Livro has no known potential for abuse or dependence.

Q: Does Livro interact with birth control pills?

Some official sources state that Livro may decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills). Caution is advised, and patients are typically directed to review this potential interaction with a healthcare provider.

Q: Can people with [broad chronic condition, e.g., diabetes] use Livro?

Official documents require caution for patients with kidney disease or a history of colitis. For patients with conditions like diabetes, the sugar content (sucrose) in the liquid oral suspension form is also noted in the excipient list.

Q: What are the signs of a severe allergic reaction to Livro?

Official warnings describe signs of a severe allergic reaction, which may include swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, and severe skin rashes such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Hypersensitivity to the drug is a contraindication.

Q: Can Livro make me gain or lose weight?

Weight gain or loss is not listed as a reported adverse reaction in official regulatory documents.

Q: Does Livro affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Official documents indicate that, due to potential side effects like dizziness or headache, Livro may have a minor influence on the ability to drive or operate machinery.

Q: What is the difference between the generic and brand name versions of Livro?

Livro is the brand name for the active ingredient Cefixime. Regulatory standards ensure the active ingredient is identical between brand and generic versions, but the inactive ingredients (excipients) used to formulate the product may differ.

Q: Does Livro need to be kept refrigerated?

The unmixed powder is stored at room temperature. The reconstituted oral suspension (the liquid form prepared by a pharmacist) may require refrigeration (e.g., 2 C to 8 C) to maintain stability, as specified in the product documentation.

Q: Can I crush or split my Livro tablet?

Official information indicates that the tablets are to be swallowed whole. The regulatory information notes that the tablet and oral suspension forms are not considered interchangeable for all uses.

Q: Does Livro affect fertility?

Non-clinical data provided in official documents indicate that Livro did not cause impairment of fertility in animal studies.

Q: Does Livro pass into breast milk?

Regulatory documents state that it is not known whether the active ingredient, Cefixime, is excreted in human milk. Therefore, a risk to the breastfeeding infant cannot be excluded.

Q: How long does Livro stay in your system after the last dose?

The biological elimination half-life of Livro (Cefixime)—the time it takes for the amount of medicine in the body to reduce by half—is officially reported in healthy adults as approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Q: Where can I find the official prescribing information for Livro?

Official documents advise consulting the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information and Instructions for Use) provided with the drug product.

Q: Does Livro cause sensitivity to the sun?

Official regulatory documents do not list photosensitivity (sensitivity to sun exposure) as a reported adverse reaction for Livro.

Q: What are the ingredients in Livro besides the main drug?

Official documents list the active ingredient, Cefixime, and also list the inactive ingredients (excipients) specific to each dosage form. These excipients are necessary for the medication's stability and consistent delivery.

How should Livro be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Livro?

The official storage and disposal guidelines for Livro are defined by regulatory authorities to ensure product quality and safety, focusing on specific conditions for temperature, physical protection, and end-of-life management.

Official Storage Requirements

Classification Requirement
Temperature Store below 25 C or as specified on the labeling (e.g., 2 C to 8 C for refrigeration).
Protection Keep in the original package to protect the medicine from light and moisture (if applicable).
Child Safety Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
In-Use Stability After preparation (e.g., reconstitution), the product may have a limited shelf life (e.g., 14 days).

Disposal Instructions

All unused or expired Livro must be disposed of in accordance with local regulatory requirements. Do not dispose of the medicine via wastewater or household garbage unless specifically instructed to do so by a drug take-back program or official government guidance.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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