Medicine Information

Extracef

Name: Extracef
Brand: Extracef
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Capsule250 mgAntibiotics (Cephalosporin)ATC: J01DD08

Generic Name

Cefixime

Manufacturer

Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
extracef 250 mg capsule	৳ 8.00	৳ 80.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Extracef 250 mg Capsule contains Cefixime, a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections.

Uses & Indications

Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Otitis Media

Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis

Acute Bronchitis and Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis

Uncomplicated Gonorrhea

Dosage

Adults

200-400 mg daily, given as a single dose or in two divided doses for 7-14 days depending on the infection. For uncomplicated gonorrhea, a single 400 mg dose.

Elderly

No dosage adjustment needed unless renal function is severely impaired.

Renal_impairment

Dosage reduction is recommended for patients with creatinine clearance less than 30 ml/min. For CrCl 21-60 ml/min, standard dose once daily. For CrCl <20 ml/min, 200 mg once daily.

How to Take

Take orally with or without food. To minimize gastrointestinal upset, it may be taken with food.

Mechanism of Action

Cefixime is a bactericidal antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to bacterial cell lysis and death.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 2-6 hours.

Excretion

Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine (about 50% of absorbed dose) and also via biliary excretion.

Half life

Plasma half-life is typically 3 to 4 hours.

Absorption

Approximately 40-50% absorbed orally, food does not significantly alter absorption.

Metabolism

Not extensively metabolized; approximately 10% appears to be metabolized.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to cefixime or other cephalosporins.
History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to penicillins (due to potential cross-reactivity).

Drug Interactions

Carbamazepine

Increased carbamazepine levels when co-administered. Monitor carbamazepine levels.

Oral Contraceptives

Potential for reduced efficacy of oral contraceptives (though clinical significance is debated).

Aminoglycosides / Loop Diuretics

May increase nephrotoxicity (rare).

Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)

Increased prothrombin time (INR) and bleeding risk. Monitor INR closely.

Storage

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

Overdose

Gastric lavage may be indicated. Cefixime is not removed in significant quantities by dialysis. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B. Cefixime crosses the placenta but studies in animals have not shown harm. Use only if clearly needed. Small amounts are excreted in breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

Box of 6 capsulesBox of 10 capsulesBox of 14 capsules

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.

Availability

Available in pharmacies and hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)

Patent Status

Generic available, original patent expired

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical trials have established cefixime's efficacy and safety for its approved indications.

Lab Monitoring

Monitor renal function in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or during prolonged high-dose therapy.
Periodic blood counts if prolonged therapy is anticipated.

Doctor Notes

Prescribe based on bacterial susceptibility patterns.
Educate patients on the importance of completing the full course to prevent resistance.
Monitor for signs of C. difficile infection if severe diarrhea occurs.

Patient Guidelines

Complete the entire course of medication, even if symptoms improve.
Do not share your medication with others.
Inform your doctor about any unusual side effects or if your condition worsens.

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 resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.