Extracef
Generic Name
Cefixime
Manufacturer
Acme Laboratories Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| extracef 500 mg capsule | ৳ 15.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Cefixime is a broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections including those of the urinary tract, respiratory tract, skin, and ears. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 500 mg once daily, or 250 mg twice daily, for 7 to 14 days depending on the infection. For uncomplicated gonorrhea, a single 500 mg dose.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is required for elderly patients unless there is significant renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
For creatinine clearance < 20 mL/min, the dosage should be reduced to 250 mg once daily.
How to Take
Extracef-500-mg-capsule should be taken orally. It can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may help to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Mechanism of Action
Cefixime inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall. This prevents the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains, leading to cell lysis and bacterial death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within 2-6 hours after oral administration.
Excretion
Excretion occurs primarily via urine (approximately 50% of the absorbed dose) and bile/feces (approximately 10%).
Half life
The plasma elimination half-life is approximately 3-4 hours.
Absorption
Approximately 40-50% orally absorbed. Food may delay the time to peak concentration (Tmax) but does not significantly affect the total absorbed amount (AUC).
Metabolism
Cefixime undergoes limited metabolism in the body. The majority of the absorbed dose is excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cefixime, other cephalosporins, penicillins, or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with a history of anaphylaxis to penicillin.
Drug Interactions
Nifedipine
Concurrent use may increase the absorption of cefixime.
Probenecid
Increases cefixime plasma levels by decreasing its renal excretion.
Carbamazepine
Cefixime may increase carbamazepine levels; monitor blood levels.
Warfarin and other anticoagulants
Concurrent administration may prolong prothrombin time (INR), requiring close monitoring and dose adjustment of anticoagulants.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, general supportive measures are recommended. Gastric lavage may be indicated. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis does not effectively remove cefixime from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cefixime is excreted in small amounts in breast milk; use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the specific manufacturer's guidelines.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Cefixime has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in various bacterial infections. Ongoing research continues to explore its role in emerging antimicrobial resistance patterns.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or during prolonged therapy)
- Complete blood count (for prolonged therapy)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on the importance of completing the full antibiotic course.
- Advise patients to report any signs of severe diarrhea, as it could indicate Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.
- Monitor renal function in patients with pre-existing renal impairment during prolonged therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full prescribed course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not save leftover medicine for future infections.
- Do not share your medicine with others.
- Contact your doctor if diarrhea becomes severe or persistent.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Cefixime may cause dizziness or lightheadedness in some individuals. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent the spread of infection.
- Drink plenty of fluids unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during the course of treatment, as it may worsen side effects.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.