Medicine Information

Polycef

Name: Polycef
Brand: Polycef

Suspension125 mg/5 mlAntibiotics, Cephalosporins, 3rd GenerationATC: J01DD08

Generic Name

polycef-125-mg-suspension

Manufacturer

Acme Laboratories Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
polycef 125 mg suspension	৳ 90.00	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Polycef 125 mg Suspension is an antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It belongs to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics and works by stopping the growth of bacteria. It is commonly prescribed for ear, throat, urinary tract, and skin infections.

Uses & Indications

Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis

Otitis media

Pharyngitis and tonsillitis

Uncomplicated urinary tract infections

Uncomplicated gonorrhea

Typhoid fever

Dosage

Adults

Adults: 400 mg once daily or 200 mg every 12 hours. (Note: While this suspension is 125mg, adults often take higher strengths like 200mg/400mg tablets. For the suspension, it's typically pediatric.)

Elderly

No specific dosage adjustment needed for elderly patients with normal renal function.

Renal_impairment

Dosage reduction is recommended for patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 20 ml/min).

How to Take

For oral use. Shake the bottle well before each use. It can be taken with or without food. Complete the full prescribed course of treatment even if symptoms improve.

Mechanism of Action

Cefixime inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to bacterial cell lysis and death. It is bactericidal against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Generally within 1-2 hours for therapeutic effect.

Excretion

Excreted predominantly in the urine (approximately 50% unchanged) and bile/feces.

Half life

Average plasma half-life is 3 to 4 hours.

Absorption

Approximately 40-50% orally absorbed. Food can delay absorption but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.

Metabolism

Not extensively metabolized in the liver; primarily eliminated unchanged.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to cefixime or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.

Drug Interactions

Warfarin

May increase prothrombin time (PT) and INR, leading to increased bleeding risk. Monitor coagulation parameters.

Carbamazepine

Concomitant use may increase carbamazepine plasma concentrations. Monitor carbamazepine levels.

Aminoglycosides / Furosemide

Concomitant use with high doses may increase the risk of nephrotoxicity, though less commonly observed with cefixime.

Storage

Store the dry powder at room temperature (below 30°C) away from light and moisture. After reconstitution, store in a refrigerator (2-8°C) and discard any unused portion after 7-14 days (check specific product leaflet).

Overdose

In case of overdose, gastric lavage may be indicated. Cefixime is not removed in significant quantities by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B. Cefixime crosses the placenta but no evidence of harm in animal studies. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Excreted in very small amounts into breast milk; generally considered safe during lactation, but consult a doctor.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to cefixime or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.

Drug Interactions

Warfarin

May increase prothrombin time (PT) and INR, leading to increased bleeding risk. Monitor coagulation parameters.

Carbamazepine

Concomitant use may increase carbamazepine plasma concentrations. Monitor carbamazepine levels.

Aminoglycosides / Furosemide

Concomitant use with high doses may increase the risk of nephrotoxicity, though less commonly observed with cefixime.

Storage

Overdose

In case of overdose, gastric lavage may be indicated. Cefixime is not removed in significant quantities by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

30 ml reconstituted suspension50 ml reconstituted suspension100 ml reconstituted suspension

Shelf Life

Unreconstituted powder: 2 years from manufacturing date. Reconstituted suspension: 7-14 days when stored as directed (usually refrigerated).

Availability

Available in pharmacies and hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by DGDA

Patent Status

Generic (Patent Expired)

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of cefixime for various bacterial infections, particularly in pediatric populations. Research continues on resistance patterns and optimal dosing strategies.

Lab Monitoring

Periodic monitoring of renal function may be advisable during prolonged therapy, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
Monitor coagulation parameters (PT/INR) if co-administered with anticoagulants like warfarin.

Doctor Notes

Educate patients on the importance of completing the full course to prevent resistance.
Advise parents on proper measurement and administration for pediatric patients.
Be aware of potential cross-reactivity in patients with penicillin allergy.

Patient Guidelines

Complete the entire course of medication as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel better.
Do not share your medication with others.
Report any unusual or severe side effects to your doctor immediately.
Shake the suspension well before each use.

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 generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or other side effects that affect your concentration, avoid these activities.