Cefixime-A 200 mg

Description

Indications

Cefixime-A is an orally administered cephalosporin antibiotic with potent bactericidal activity against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It is prescribed for treating various acute infections caused by susceptible microorganisms.

Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTI): Used for conditions such as otitis media and other upper respiratory infections, particularly in cases where the causative bacteria are resistant to commonly used antibiotics or where treatment failure poses significant risks.

Lower Respiratory Tract Infections: Indicated for bronchitis and other lower respiratory tract infections.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI): Effective in treating infections such as cystitis, cystourethritis, and pyelonephritis.

Clinical efficacy has been established against pathogens including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella species, Haemophilus influenzae (both beta-lactamase positive and negative), Moraxella catarrhalis (both beta-lactamase positive and negative), and Enterobacter species. Cefixime-A is highly stable against beta-lactamase enzymes.

Pharmacology Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that disrupts bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial death. It is effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and remains stable in the presence of beta-lactamase enzymes, making it a suitable treatment for infections caused by beta-lactamase-producing bacteria. Approximately 40%-50% of Cefixime is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, with or without food.

Dosage & Administration Cefixime absorption is not significantly affected by food intake. The typical treatment duration is seven days but may be extended to 14 days if necessary.

Adults and Children Over 10 Years:

• Recommended dose: 200-400 mg per day, either as a single dose or in two divided doses, depending on infection severity.

Elderly Patients:

• Can take the same dosage as adults, but renal function should be assessed, and dosage adjusted in cases of severe renal impairment.

Children:

• Recommended dose: 8 mg/kg/day, administered as a single dose or in two divided doses.
• Dosage guidelines:
  • 6 months to 1 year: 3.75 ml daily
  • 1-4 years: 5 ml daily
  • 5-10 years: 10 ml daily
  • For typhoid fever: 5 mg/kg body weight twice daily for 10-14 days.
  • Children over 50 kg or older than 10 years should receive the adult dose (200-400 mg daily).
  • Safety and efficacy in children under six months have not been established.

Dosage for Renal Impairment:

• In patients with creatinine clearance ≥20 ml/min, normal dosing may be used.
• In cases where creatinine clearance is <20 ml/min, a maximum of 200 mg once daily is recommended.
• The same dosage applies to patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis.

Drug Interactions

• Like other cephalosporins, Cefixime may increase prothrombin time in some patients. Caution is advised in individuals receiving anticoagulant therapy.

Contraindications

• Not recommended for patients with known hypersensitivity to cephalosporin antibiotics.

Side Effects Cefixime-A is generally well tolerated, with most side effects being mild and self-limiting.

• Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, stool changes, nausea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, vomiting, and flatulence. Rare cases of pseudomembranous colitis have been reported.
• Central Nervous System: Headache and dizziness.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Rash, pruritus, urticaria, drug fever, and arthralgia. Symptoms typically subside after discontinuation.
• Hematological Effects: Rare cases of thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and eosinophilia, which are generally reversible.
• Liver and Renal Function: Transient alterations in liver and kidney function tests have been noted.
• Miscellaneous: Genital pruritus and vaginitis.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• There are no adequate studies in pregnant women; therefore, Cefixime should be used during pregnancy only if clearly necessary.
• It is unknown if Cefixime is excreted in human milk, so caution is advised when administering it to nursing mothers.

Precautions & Warnings

• Patients with known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or penicillins should use Cefixime with caution due to the possibility of cross-allergic reactions.
• If an allergic reaction occurs, the medication should be discontinued immediately.
• Caution is required in patients with severe renal impairment.
• Prolonged antibiotic use may lead to overgrowth of Clostridium difficile, a known cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Overdose Effects

• In cases of overdose, gastric lavage may be performed. No specific antidote exists.
• Cefixime is not effectively removed by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.
• Clinical trials indicate no significant adverse reactions at single doses up to 2 g in healthy adults.

Therapeutic Class

• Third-generation cephalosporins.

Storage Conditions

• Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Cefixime-A 200 mg Capsule used for? Cefixime-A 200 mg Capsule is an antibiotic prescribed for bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, and bronchitis. It is ineffective against viral infections like the flu.

What are the common side effects? Common side effects include diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion, dizziness, and skin redness. Serious side effects such as severe allergic reactions should be reported to a doctor immediately.

Can Cefixime-A 200 mg Capsule treat colds and flu? No, this antibiotic is not effective against viral infections like the flu or the common cold.

How should Cefixime-A 200 mg Capsule be stored? Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Can infants take Cefixime-A 200 mg Capsule? The safety of this medication in infants under six months has not been established. Consult a doctor before use.

Does Cefixime-A 200 mg Capsule interact with birth control? There is no evidence suggesting that Cefixime affects contraceptive medications.

Can I take acetaminophen (paracetamol) with Cefixime-A? There are no known interactions between Cefixime-A and acetaminophen, but it is best to consult a doctor before taking them together.

How long does it take for Cefixime-A 200 mg Capsule to work? It starts working soon after ingestion, but it may take a few days to relieve symptoms completely. Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.

What should I do if my condition does not improve? If symptoms persist after completing the full course of treatment, consult a doctor.

Quick Tips:

• Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve early.
• Take with food to reduce stomach upset.
• Inform your doctor if diarrhea persists or if blood appears in stools.
• Avoid alcohol while on Cefixime-A to prevent increased side effects.
• Stop use and seek medical attention if allergic reactions occur.