Afix 400 mg

Indications

Afix is an oral cephalosporin antibiotic that exhibits potent bactericidal activity against a broad spectrum of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It is used to treat a variety of acute infections caused by susceptible microorganisms.

• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTI): This includes conditions like otitis media and other upper respiratory infections where the causative organism may be resistant to commonly used antibiotics or where treatment failure could pose a significant health risk.
• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections: Examples include bronchitis.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTI): Such as cystitis, cystourethritis, and pyelonephritis.

Afix has proven effective against commonly encountered pathogens, including Streptococcus pneumonia, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella species, Haemophilus influenzae (both beta-lactamase positive and negative strains), Moraxella catarrhalis (both beta-lactamase positive and negative strains), and Enterobacter species. Afix is highly stable in the presence of beta-lactamase enzymes, making it effective against organisms that are resistant to other antibiotics due to these enzymes.

Use only as directed by a registered physician.

Pharmacology

Cefixime, the active ingredient in Afix, is a third-generation, semi-synthetic cephalosporin antibiotic that is effective against a wide range of bacteria. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, leading to the bacteria’s death. Cefixime is stable in the presence of beta-lactamase enzymes, making it effective against organisms resistant to penicillins and certain other cephalosporins. The absorption rate of Cefixime is approximately 40-50%, whether taken with or without food.

Dosage & Administration

The absorption of Cefixime is not significantly affected by food. The usual treatment duration is 7 days, but it can be extended to 14 days if necessary.

• Adults and Children Over 10 Years: The recommended dosage is 200-400 mg per day, depending on the infection’s severity. This can be taken as a single dose or divided into two doses.
• Elderly: The dosage for elderly patients is the same as for adults. However, renal function should be assessed, and the dose adjusted in cases of severe renal impairment.
• Children:
  • Children 6 months to 1 year: 3.75 ml daily
  • Children 1-4 years: 5 ml daily
  • Children 5-10 years: 10 ml daily
  • In typhoid: 5 mg/kg body weight twice daily for 10-14 days.

For children over 10 years or weighing more than 50 kg, the adult dose of 200-400 mg per day is recommended based on infection severity.

• Children Under 6 Months: Safety and efficacy in children under 6 months have not been established.

Dosage in Renal Impairment:

• In patients with creatinine clearance of 20 ml/min or greater, the usual dosage can be given.
• In patients with creatinine clearance of less than 20 ml/min, a dose of 200 mg per day should not be exceeded. For patients on chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis, the dosage should follow the same recommendation as those with creatinine clearance less than 20 ml/min.

Use only as directed by a registered physician.

Interactions

Like other cephalosporins, Afix may increase prothrombin times in some patients. Caution is advised in individuals receiving anticoagulant therapy.

Contraindications

Afix is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to cephalosporin antibiotics.

Side Effects

Afix is generally well tolerated, with most side effects being mild and self-limiting. However, the following side effects may occur:

• Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea (more common with higher doses), nausea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, vomiting, and flatulence. Rarely, pseudomembranous colitis may occur.
• Central Nervous System: Headache, dizziness.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Rash, pruritis, urticaria, drug fever, and arthralgia.
• Hematological: Thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and eosinophilia (rare and reversible).
• Liver and Renal: Mild, transient changes in liver and renal function tests.
• Miscellaneous: Genital pruritis and vaginitis.

Pregnancy & Lactation

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Cefixime should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is unknown whether Cefixime is excreted in human milk, so caution should be exercised when administering Afix to a nursing mother.

Precautions & Warnings

Cefixime should be used with caution in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to other drugs, particularly those allergic to penicillin, as there is some cross-allergenicity between cephalosporins and penicillins. An allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis may occur in sensitive individuals. In the event of an allergic reaction, Afix should be discontinued, and the patient should receive appropriate treatment.

Afix should also be used cautiously in patients with significantly impaired renal function. Broad-spectrum antibiotics like Cefixime can alter the normal bacterial flora of the colon, potentially allowing for the overgrowth of Clostridium difficile, which can lead to antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Overdose Effects

In case of overdose, gastric lavage may be required. Afix is not significantly removed from the circulation by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Adverse reactions from doses up to 2 g have been similar to those observed at recommended doses.

Therapeutic Class

Third-generation Cephalosporins

Storage Conditions

Store below 30ºC, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Chemical Structure

• Molecular Formula: C16H15N5O7S2

Common Questions about Afix 400 mg Capsule

1. What is Afix 400 mg Capsule? Afix 400 mg Capsule is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, including conditions like urinary tract infections, bronchitis, and tonsillitis. It does not work for viral infections such as the flu.

2. What are the side effects of Afix 400 mg Capsule? Common side effects include diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, and nausea. More serious side effects can include swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, or severe allergic reactions.

3. Can Afix 400 mg Capsule treat the flu or cold? No, Afix 400 mg Capsule will not treat viral infections like the flu or cold.

4. How should Afix 400 mg Capsule be stored? Store the medication in a cool, dry place, in its original packaging, away from children and pets.

5. Is Afix 400 mg Capsule safe for infants? Safety in children under 6 months has not been established. Consult a doctor before giving this medication to an infant.

Quick Tips

• Take Afix 400 mg Capsule as prescribed by your doctor to treat your infection.
• Complete the entire course of treatment, even if you feel better, to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.
• Avoid alcohol while taking Afix 400 mg Capsule, as it may increase side effects.
• If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), discontinue the medication and seek immediate medical attention.