Maxipen
Generic Name
Phenoxymethylpenicillin
Manufacturer
Multiple manufacturers (Historically Pfizer)
Country
Global (Originally USA)
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| maxipen 500 mg injection | ৳ 1,298.89 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Maxipen (Phenoxymethylpenicillin) is an oral penicillin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
250-500 mg every 6-8 hours, depending on the severity of infection.
Elderly
Same as adults, but monitor renal function and adjust if necessary.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment may be necessary for severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Oral administration, usually before meals or at least one hour before or two hours after meals, to maximize absorption. Can be taken with food if gastrointestinal upset occurs.
Mechanism of Action
It inhibits the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, leading to bacterial cell lysis and death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys
Half life
Approximately 0.5 to 1 hour
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; absorption may be reduced by food.
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism (about 10-30%)
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to penicillin or any component of the formulation.
- History of severe allergic reaction to other beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., cephalosporins).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin; monitor INR.
Probenecid
Increases and prolongs penicillin plasma concentrations.
Methotrexate
Increased methotrexate toxicity due to reduced renal clearance.
Tetracyclines
May antagonize the bactericidal effect of penicillin.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Reconstituted oral suspension should be stored in a refrigerator and used within 7-14 days.
Overdose
Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalance. In rare cases, central nervous system toxicity (e.g., convulsions) may occur, especially in patients with impaired renal function. Treatment is supportive; gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered. Hemodialysis can remove penicillin from the circulation.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe during pregnancy. Excreted in breast milk in small amounts; generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but monitor infant for potential side effects.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to penicillin or any component of the formulation.
- History of severe allergic reaction to other beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., cephalosporins).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin; monitor INR.
Probenecid
Increases and prolongs penicillin plasma concentrations.
Methotrexate
Increased methotrexate toxicity due to reduced renal clearance.
Tetracyclines
May antagonize the bactericidal effect of penicillin.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Reconstituted oral suspension should be stored in a refrigerator and used within 7-14 days.
Overdose
Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalance. In rare cases, central nervous system toxicity (e.g., convulsions) may occur, especially in patients with impaired renal function. Treatment is supportive; gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered. Hemodialysis can remove penicillin from the circulation.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe during pregnancy. Excreted in breast milk in small amounts; generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but monitor infant for potential side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from manufacturing date, depending on formulation and manufacturer.
Availability
Available in most pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved globally for decades
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of phenoxymethylpenicillin for its approved indications over many decades.
Lab Monitoring
- For prolonged therapy or high doses, monitor renal function (creatinine, BUN) and complete blood count (CBC).
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on the importance of completing the full course.
- Counsel on potential allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, and advise seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms occur.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of antibiotic treatment, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not share this medicine with others.
- Report any severe allergic reactions or persistent side effects to your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Maxipen is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or other side effects, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Drink plenty of fluids unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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