Question
The 7-month-old baby weighs 17 pounds and has been experiencing coughing and sputum symptoms. After being prescribed medication by a doctor, the symptoms improved temporarily. However, recently, there has been a whistling sound in the throat, and the diagnosis is now bronchitis. The doctor suggests intravenous treatment, but the parents are worried about the baby’s reluctance to take medication and the mild symptoms. The baby is currently taking azithromycin and cefpodoxime, but there is still coughing. The parents would like to inquire if this medication is appropriate, whether intravenous treatment is necessary, what should be the dosage of cefpodoxime, and how to judge if the condition is improving.
Answer
Based on the chest X-ray diagnosis of bronchitis, but with mild symptoms, it is generally not recommended to undergo intravenous treatment. Azithromycin and cefpodoxime are different types of antibiotics that may place a burden on the liver and kidneys when used together, so it is not advisable to use them in combination. It is recommended that parents take the baby for a routine blood test; if the blood count is not high, antibiotics should not be used excessively. The pediatric dosage of cefpodoxime is 1.5-3mg per kilogram of body weight, taken twice daily. After one week of medication or when symptoms subside, a repeat chest X-ray and blood test should be conducted.