sk-cef
Generic Name
Cefixime
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| sk cef 125 mg suspension | ৳ 95.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
SK-CEF 125 mg Suspension contains Cefixime, a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It works by preventing the growth of bacteria and is effective against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Not typically indicated for adult use in this suspension form. Adult dosage is usually 400 mg once daily or 200 mg twice daily in tablet form.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is needed for the elderly unless there is significant renal impairment.
Children
Children 6 months to 12 years: 8 mg/kg/day orally in a single dose or in two divided doses. For specific infections, dosage may vary. The 125 mg/5 ml suspension typically implies 5 ml for a child weighing approx 15 kg for a single dose of 8 mg/kg.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment is necessary for patients with creatinine clearance less than 60 mL/min. For CrCl 21-60 mL/min, 75% of the standard dose; for CrCl <20 mL/min, 50% of the standard dose.
How to Take
Administer orally, with or without food. Shake the suspension well before each use. Use a calibrated measuring spoon or cup for accurate dosing.
Mechanism of Action
Cefixime exerts its bactericidal effect by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, which prevents the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis, leading to cell lysis and bacterial death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Peak plasma concentrations are achieved 2-6 hours after oral administration.
Excretion
Excreted primarily via the kidneys (glomerular filtration and tubular secretion) and also via bile.
Half life
Plasma half-life is typically 3-4 hours in healthy individuals, slightly longer in renal impairment.
Absorption
Approximately 40-50% orally absorbed. Food can delay time to peak concentration but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
Metabolism
Approximately 50% is excreted unchanged in the urine; a small percentage is metabolized in the liver.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cefixime or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reaction to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics due to potential cross-reactivity.
Drug Interactions
Nefidipine
May increase cefixime Cmax and AUC.
Carbamazepine
Concomitant administration may increase carbamazepine plasma concentrations.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May increase prothrombin time (INR), requiring dose adjustment and close monitoring.
Storage
Store dry powder below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. After reconstitution, store in a refrigerator (2-8°C) and do not freeze.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain may occur. Management is supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage may be indicated; hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing cefixime from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Excreted in very small amounts in breast milk, use with caution during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cefixime or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reaction to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics due to potential cross-reactivity.
Drug Interactions
Nefidipine
May increase cefixime Cmax and AUC.
Carbamazepine
Concomitant administration may increase carbamazepine plasma concentrations.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May increase prothrombin time (INR), requiring dose adjustment and close monitoring.
Storage
Store dry powder below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. After reconstitution, store in a refrigerator (2-8°C) and do not freeze.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain may occur. Management is supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage may be indicated; hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing cefixime from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Excreted in very small amounts in breast milk, use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Dry powder: 2-3 years when stored properly. Reconstituted suspension: 7-14 days when refrigerated (check product specific leaflet).
Availability
Available in retail pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by drug regulatory authorities
Patent Status
Generic (off-patent)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of cefixime in various bacterial infections, particularly in pediatric populations. Post-marketing surveillance continues to monitor its long-term effects.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitoring of renal function (creatinine clearance) in patients with impaired kidney function.
- Periodic assessment of hematologic, renal, and hepatic function during prolonged therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of accurate dosing using the provided measuring device, especially for pediatric patients.
- Counsel patients/parents to complete the full course of therapy to ensure eradication of infection and prevent antibiotic resistance.
- Advise on potential side effects like diarrhea and when to seek medical attention.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the entire prescribed course of medication, even if symptoms improve, to prevent bacterial resistance.
- Shake the suspension vigorously before each use to ensure proper mixing.
- Use the provided measuring device (spoon or cup) to ensure accurate dosing, especially for children.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, 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 double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Cefixime may cause dizziness in some individuals. Patients should be advised to exercise caution before driving or operating machinery if they experience such symptoms.
Lifestyle Advice
- Stay well hydrated, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
- Consider consuming probiotics (e.g., yogurt) to help maintain healthy gut flora, especially during and after antibiotic therapy.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in sk-cef Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
sk-cef
Capsule
sk-cef
Pediatric Drop (Oral Suspension)
SK-Cef
Injection (powder for reconstitution)
sk-cef
Capsule
sk-cef
Injection