Starcef
Generic Name
Cefixime
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| starcef 100 mg suspension | ৳ 230.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Starcef 100 mg Suspension contains Cefixime, which is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is effective against various bacteria causing respiratory, urinary, and ear infections. This suspension form is particularly suitable for children.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
While suspension is primarily for children, if prescribed for adults, the typical dose is 200-400 mg once daily or in two divided doses.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required in elderly patients with normal renal function. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on renal impairment.
Children
General dose for children is 8 mg/kg/day administered as a single dose or in two divided doses every 12 hours. For example, a 12.5 kg child would receive 100 mg/day (10 ml of 100 mg/5 ml suspension once daily or 5 ml twice daily). Treatment duration is typically 7-14 days.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment is necessary for patients with creatinine clearance less than 60 mL/min. For CrCl 21-60 mL/min, the dose should be reduced by 50%. For CrCl <20 mL/min, the dose should be reduced by 75%.
How to Take
Administer Starcef 100 mg Suspension orally, with or without food. Shake the bottle well before each use. Use the provided measuring device (spoon or dropper) to ensure accurate dosing.
Mechanism of Action
Cefixime works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, which prevents the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains necessary for bacterial cell wall strength and rigidity. This leads to the disruption of the cell wall, causing bacterial cell lysis and death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic concentrations are generally achieved within a few hours of administration.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged via urine (about 50-55% of the absorbed dose) and also through bile/feces.
Half life
The plasma half-life is typically 3-4 hours, which may be prolonged in patients with renal impairment.
Absorption
Approximately 40-50% orally absorbed. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 2-6 hours after oral administration.
Metabolism
Cefixime is not extensively metabolized in the body. No active metabolites have been identified.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Cefixime or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Nifedipine
May increase cefixime bioavailability.
Probenecid
May increase cefixime plasma concentrations by decreasing renal excretion.
Carbamazepine
May increase carbamazepine plasma levels. Monitor carbamazepine levels if co-administered.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May increase prothrombin time/INR, potentially leading to increased bleeding risk. Monitor coagulation parameters closely.
Storage
Store the dry powder at room temperature, below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. After reconstitution, store the suspension in a refrigerator (2-8°C) and do not freeze.
Overdose
In case of overdose, gastric lavage may be indicated. There is no specific antidote. Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis does not remove significant quantities of cefixime from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cefixime is excreted in small amounts into breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Unreconstituted powder: 24-36 months from manufacturing date. Reconstituted suspension: 7-14 days when stored in a refrigerator (2-8°C).
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Cefixime has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety for various bacterial infections across different age groups, particularly in pediatric populations. Ongoing research focuses on its role in emerging resistant strains and new formulations.
Lab Monitoring
- For prolonged therapy, periodic assessment of renal and hepatic function and hematopoietic function (CBC) is recommended.
- Monitor coagulation parameters (INR/PT) in patients concomitantly receiving oral anticoagulants.
Doctor Notes
- Ensure accurate diagnosis of bacterial infection before prescribing Cefixime; it is ineffective against viral infections.
- Consider culture and susceptibility testing, especially in cases of suspected resistance or recurrent infections.
- Advise parents/caregivers on the importance of completing the full course of therapy to prevent recurrence and resistance.
- Monitor for signs of allergic reactions, particularly in patients with a history of penicillin allergy.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of medication as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve. Stopping early can lead to bacterial resistance.
- Do not share this medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms.
- Measure the dose carefully using the provided measuring device.
- Store the reconstituted suspension as directed, usually in the refrigerator, and discard any unused portion after the specified period (typically 7-14 days).
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 double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause dizziness or headaches in some individuals. If you experience these side effects, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
- If diarrhea occurs, avoid anti-diarrhea medications unless advised by a doctor, as they might worsen C. difficile infection.
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