What is CX LB capsules used for? An in-depth guide to its medical applications

October 8, 2025 •

4 min read

An estimated 10-25% of individuals taking antibiotics experience associated diarrhea, a common side effect of disrupting gut flora. This statistic highlights why understanding what is CX LB capsules used for? is important, as this medication combines an antibiotic with a probiotic to both combat infection and safeguard digestive health.

Quick Summary

CX LB capsules are a combination medication containing the antibiotic Cefixime and the probiotic Lactic Acid Bacillus. This formulation treats a wide range of bacterial infections while minimizing gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea, by restoring beneficial gut bacteria.

Key Points

Dual-Action Formula: CX LB combines the antibiotic Cefixime with the probiotic Lactic Acid Bacillus to fight bacterial infections while supporting gut health.
Treats Wide Range of Infections: It is prescribed for bacterial infections in the ears, throat, lungs, urinary tract, and for uncomplicated gonorrhea.
Minimizes Digestive Side Effects: The probiotic component helps prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea by restoring the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
Requires Medical Supervision: CX LB is a prescription-only medication, and the full course should be completed as directed by a doctor to ensure effectiveness.
Important Safety Considerations: Patients with cephalosporin or penicillin allergies or pre-existing kidney/liver conditions should use CX LB with caution.
Potential for Drug Interactions: The medication can interact with blood thinners like warfarin and antacids, requiring careful monitoring.
Not for Viral Infections: CX LB is only effective against bacterial infections and should not be used to treat viral illnesses like the common cold or flu.

Understanding the components of CX LB capsules

CX LB capsules are a dual-action medication, with 'CX' referring to the antibiotic Cefixime and 'LB' indicating the probiotic component, Lactic Acid Bacillus. Each of these active ingredients plays a distinct role in managing bacterial infections and mitigating common antibiotic side effects.

Cefixime: The antibiotic agent

Cefixime is a powerful third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, which is essential for the survival of the bacteria. By disrupting this protective covering, Cefixime effectively kills the bacteria responsible for the infection, preventing it from growing and spreading within the body. Cefixime is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, meaning it is effective against a wide variety of bacterial strains.

Lactic Acid Bacillus: The probiotic protector

Antibiotics, while targeting harmful bacteria, can also kill beneficial bacteria residing in the gut, upsetting the natural balance of intestinal flora. This disruption is the primary cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and other digestive issues. Lactic Acid Bacillus is a type of probiotic, or "friendly bacteria," that works to restore this healthy balance. It helps:

Replenish the population of good bacteria in the gut.
Create an acidic environment that is unfavorable for the growth of harmful microbes.
Support overall digestive well-being during antibiotic treatment.

What are the primary uses of CX LB capsules?

Due to its powerful combination of antibiotic and probiotic, CX LB capsules are used to treat a variety of bacterial infections throughout the body. It is important to note that CX LB is not effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu. A doctor's prescription is required for this medication.

Respiratory and ear infections

CX LB is effective against several types of infections that affect the respiratory tract and ears, including:

Otitis media: An infection of the middle ear, which is particularly common in children.
Pharyngitis and tonsillitis: Throat infections caused by specific types of bacteria.
Bronchitis and pneumonia: Infections of the lungs and airways.
Sinusitis: An infection of the sinuses.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

CX LB is also prescribed for UTIs, which are caused by susceptible bacteria like Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis. The antibiotic component effectively targets and eliminates the bacteria in the urinary system.

Gonorrhea

In some cases, Cefixime is used to treat uncomplicated gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted disease.

Gastrointestinal infections

Infections like shigella and salmonella, which cause severe diarrhea, can also be treated with cefixime. The inclusion of Lactic Acid Bacillus helps manage the associated gastrointestinal symptoms and restore normal gut function.

Administration, and precautions

CX LB is a prescription medication, and the specific use will vary depending on the patient, the type of infection, and its severity. Patients must follow their doctor's instructions carefully.

Key considerations for use include:

Full Course Completion: It is crucial to complete the entire prescribed course of medication, even if symptoms improve, to ensure all bacteria are eliminated and to prevent antibiotic resistance.
Timing: The capsule can generally be taken with or without food. However, some products have recommendations for when to take the probiotic component to maximize its effectiveness.
Allergies: This medication is contraindicated in individuals with a history of allergic reactions to cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotics.
Underlying Conditions: Patients with a history of kidney or liver disease, epilepsy, or intestinal disorders like colitis should use this medication with caution and inform their doctor.

Comparison of antibiotic-only vs. antibiotic-probiotic combination


Feature	Cefixime (Antibiotic Only)	Cefixime + Lactic Acid Bacillus (CX LB)
Primary Action	Kills bacteria to treat infections.	Kills bacteria and supports gut health.
Gut Health Consideration	Can disrupt the balance of gut flora, potentially leading to gastrointestinal issues.	Actively restores beneficial gut bacteria, mitigating the risk of digestive side effects.
Risk of Diarrhea	Higher risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.	Lower risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea due to the probiotic component.
Usage	Prescribed for a wide range of bacterial infections.	Prescribed for bacterial infections, especially in patients prone to digestive issues with antibiotics.

Potential side effects and interactions

While generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects from CX LB capsules. Common side effects often involve the gastrointestinal system and include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Serious allergic reactions like rash, swelling, and difficulty breathing are rare but require immediate medical attention.

Potential Drug Interactions:

Blood Thinners: CX LB can increase the effect of blood thinners like warfarin, raising the risk of bleeding.
Antacids: Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum can reduce the absorption of cefixime.
Probenecid: This gout medication can increase cefixime levels in the body.

Patients should always inform their doctor of all other medications, vitamins, and supplements they are taking to avoid harmful interactions.

Conclusion

CX LB capsules provide a comprehensive solution for treating bacterial infections by combining the potent antibiotic Cefixime with the protective probiotic Lactic Acid Bacillus. This dual-action approach not only eliminates the infection but also actively supports gut health, minimizing the disruptive side effects commonly associated with antibiotic treatment. As a prescription medication, its use should always be supervised by a healthcare professional to ensure proper administration and to manage any potential side effects or interactions.

For more detailed information, consult authoritative sources such as the official prescribing information on DailyMed.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should begin to feel better within the first few days of treatment with CX LB. However, the full course must be completed as prescribed by your doctor to ensure the infection is completely eliminated and to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.

CX LB should be used with caution in patients with a history of penicillin allergy, especially those with severe reactions like anaphylaxis. You must inform your doctor of any allergies before starting this medication.

CX LB capsules can generally be taken with or without food. Some studies suggest food can impact absorption slightly, but it does not significantly affect overall efficacy. Consistency in taking it around the same time each day is more important for best results.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

While the antibiotic component (Cefixime) can cause diarrhea, the inclusion of the probiotic (Lactic Acid Bacillus) is intended to reduce this side effect by restoring healthy gut bacteria. However, diarrhea can still occur, and if it becomes severe or bloody, you should contact your doctor.

The use of CX LB capsules for children must be determined by a doctor based on the child's weight and the specific infection being treated. It is not recommended for infants under 6 months of age.

You should avoid consuming alcohol with CX LB, as it can increase side effects like dizziness. Additionally, taking antacids or dairy products close to the time you take your medication can affect absorption, so it's best to separate them by at least a couple of hours.