Primochef
Generic Name
Cefixime
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| primocef 250 mg tablet | ৳ 25.08 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Primochef-250 mg Tablet contains Cefixime, a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections in various parts of the body.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
The usual adult dose is 200 mg to 400 mg once daily, or 200 mg twice daily. For uncomplicated gonorrhea, a single dose of 400 mg is recommended.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients unless they have severe renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
For patients with creatinine clearance less than 60 mL/min, the dose should be adjusted. For example, if creatinine clearance is 21-60 mL/min, the dose should be 75% of the standard dose. If creatinine clearance is less than 20 mL/min, the dose should be 50% of the standard dose.
How to Take
Primochef-250 mg Tablet should be taken orally with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. For optimal absorption and to reduce gastrointestinal upset, some prefer to take it with food.
Mechanism of Action
Cefixime works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell lysis and death. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) inside the bacterial cell wall, preventing the final cross-linking step of peptidoglycan synthesis.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Peak plasma concentrations are achieved in 2-6 hours.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in the urine (about 50-60% of the absorbed dose) as unchanged drug within 24 hours. A portion is also eliminated via biliary/fecal route.
Half life
Plasma half-life is typically 3-4 hours, which may be prolonged in renal impairment.
Absorption
Approximately 30-50% orally absorbed. Food can slightly delay absorption but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
Metabolism
Cefixime is not extensively metabolized in the body. Some metabolites have been identified but their activity is not well characterized.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cefixime, other cephalosporins, or any component of the formulation.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reaction to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Concomitant administration of probenecid has been shown to increase cefixime plasma levels and prolong its elimination half-life.
Carbamazepine
Elevated carbamazepine levels have been reported when co-administered with cefixime, necessitating monitoring of carbamazepine levels.
Warfarin and other anticoagulants
May increase prothrombin time (INR) and the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of coagulation parameters is recommended.
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, gastric lavage may be performed. Cefixime is not removed in significant quantities by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus. However, there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cefixime is excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution during breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cefixime, other cephalosporins, or any component of the formulation.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reaction to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Concomitant administration of probenecid has been shown to increase cefixime plasma levels and prolong its elimination half-life.
Carbamazepine
Elevated carbamazepine levels have been reported when co-administered with cefixime, necessitating monitoring of carbamazepine levels.
Warfarin and other anticoagulants
May increase prothrombin time (INR) and the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of coagulation parameters is recommended.
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, gastric lavage may be performed. Cefixime is not removed in significant quantities by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus. However, there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cefixime is excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution during breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from manufacturing date, depending on specific formulation and manufacturer.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Cefixime has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety for approved indications. Ongoing research continues to explore its potential in new areas and against emerging resistant strains.
Lab Monitoring
- Patients on prolonged cefixime therapy or with pre-existing renal impairment should have their renal function (creatinine clearance) monitored regularly.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) may be monitored during extended treatment to check for hematological abnormalities.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of completing the full course to prevent antibiotic resistance.
- Counsel patients on potential gastrointestinal side effects and advise taking with food if gastric upset occurs.
- Be aware of potential cross-reactivity in patients with severe penicillin allergy.
Patient Guidelines
- Always complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.
- Do not skip doses or stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about any history of allergies, especially to penicillins or cephalosporins.
- Store the medicine as directed, away from children.
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 regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Cefixime may cause dizziness in some individuals. Patients should be cautioned about operating machinery or driving until they are reasonably certain that the drug does not adversely affect their ability to engage in such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
- Avoid self-medication for future infections.
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