Avlocid-MS
Generic Name
avlocid-ms-480-mg-suspension
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| avlocid ms 480 mg suspension | ৳ 100.30 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Avlocid-MS 480 mg Suspension is a combination antibacterial medication containing Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim (Co-trimoxazole). It is used to treat various bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, and certain gastrointestinal infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For most infections: 20 mL (Sulfamethoxazole 1600 mg / Trimethoprim 320 mg) twice daily for 10-14 days. For Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP): higher doses, based on body weight, as directed by physician.
Elderly
Dosage adjustment may be required based on renal function. Close monitoring for adverse effects is recommended.
Renal_impairment
Dose reduction or increased dosing interval is necessary based on creatinine clearance. Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (CrCl <15 mL/min).
How to Take
Administer orally, with or without food. To minimize gastrointestinal upset, it is generally recommended to take with food or milk. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent crystalluria and kidney stone formation.
Mechanism of Action
Sulfamethoxazole inhibits bacterial dihydrofolic acid synthesis by competing with para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). Trimethoprim inhibits bacterial dihydrofolate reductase. Together, they block sequential steps in bacterial folic acid synthesis, leading to synergistic bactericidal action.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antimicrobial effects typically within 1 hour of administration.
Excretion
Primarily renal, through both glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. A small amount is excreted in feces.
Half life
Sulfamethoxazole: approximately 9-11 hours; Trimethoprim: approximately 8-10 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations for both components occur 1-4 hours post-oral administration.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic. Sulfamethoxazole undergoes N4-acetylation, and Trimethoprim is metabolized via oxidation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim, or any component of the formulation.
- Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <15 mL/min).
- Severe hepatic parenchymal damage.
- Infants less than 2 months of age.
- Megaloblastic anemia due to folate deficiency.
- Concurrent use with dofetilide.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Co-trimoxazole can enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Close INR monitoring is required.
Phenytoin
Increases phenytoin levels; monitor for toxicity.
Cyclosporine
May cause reversible deterioration in renal function in patients receiving cyclosporine.
Methotrexate
Increases methotrexate plasma concentrations and toxicity due to inhibition of renal tubular secretion and folate antagonism.
Diuretics (Thiazides)
Increased risk of thrombocytopenia with purpura in elderly patients receiving concomitant thiazide diuretics.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children. Discard any unused portion after the specified period.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, headache, mental depression, confusion, and bone marrow depression. Management involves gastric lavage, emesis, forced diuresis, and supportive care. Hemodialysis may be effective in removing both components.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Pregnancy Category D. Co-trimoxazole should be avoided during the first trimester due to potential teratogenicity and near term due to risk of kernicterus in the neonate. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Lactation: Both sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim are excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised, especially if the infant is premature, jaundiced, or has glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, due to the risk of kernicterus or hemolysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Generally 24-36 months from the manufacturing date. Once opened, the suspension should be used within a specific period (e.g., 28 days) as indicated on the package insert.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals, Clinics
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., DGDA in Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Co-trimoxazole has undergone extensive clinical trials since its introduction, establishing its efficacy and safety profile for a wide range of bacterial infections. Ongoing research continues to monitor resistance patterns and explore new therapeutic applications.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential, especially during prolonged treatment or high doses.
- Renal function tests (BUN, creatinine) to monitor for nephrotoxicity, particularly in elderly or renally impaired patients.
- Liver function tests (LFTs) periodically.
- Serum potassium levels, especially in patients at risk for hyperkalemia.
Doctor Notes
- Ensure adequate hydration to prevent crystalluria and renal complications.
- Monitor complete blood count, renal function, and liver function, especially in patients on prolonged therapy or with pre-existing conditions.
- Be vigilant for signs of hypersensitivity reactions, including severe skin rashes, and discontinue immediately if they occur.
- Caution in patients with G6PD deficiency due to the risk of hemolytic anemia.
- Avoid in patients with a history of drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia with sulfamethoxazole.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor; do not stop early, even if you feel better.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help prevent kidney stones.
- Report any severe skin rash, persistent sore throat, fever, or unusual bleeding/bruising immediately to your doctor.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or tanning beds, as this medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun.
- Shake the suspension well before each use.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Co-trimoxazole may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion in some individuals. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent recurrent infections.
- Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
Related
Medicines
Explore similar medicines to find the best option for your healthcare needs.
Azi S
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Exipain
Acme Laboratories Ltd.
Exomi MUPS
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Expreso Plus
Pharma Beximco
EuroORS
Euro Pharma Ltd.
Exalin
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Axovit
Reputable Pharma Ltd.
Exib
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Exopan
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Exler
Incepta Pharmaceuticals