Zemicef DS
Generic Name
Cefixime
Manufacturer
Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| zemicef ds 200 mg suspension | ৳ 321.22 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Zemicef DS (Cefixime) is a broad-spectrum third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
400 mg once daily or 200 mg twice daily. For uncomplicated gonorrhea, a single 400 mg dose is recommended.
Elderly
Same as adults, but monitor renal function if impaired. No specific dose adjustment is usually required based on age alone.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 60 mL/min). Consult prescribing information for specific guidelines.
How to Take
Administer orally, with or without food. Can be taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
Mechanism of Action
Cefixime inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to bacterial cell lysis and death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Peak plasma concentrations are achieved 2-6 hours after oral administration.
Excretion
Eliminated primarily by renal excretion (about 50-60% of the absorbed dose within 24 hours).
Half life
The plasma elimination half-life is approximately 3-4 hours.
Absorption
Oral bioavailability is 40-50%. Absorption is not significantly affected by food, though taking it with food may reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Metabolism
Cefixime is not extensively metabolized in the body. It is primarily excreted as unchanged drug.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cefixime or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin (cross-sensitivity can occur).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Increased prothrombin time (PT) with concomitant use, requiring careful monitoring of INR.
Carbamazepine
Increased carbamazepine levels have been reported when co-administered with cefixime.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives (though clinical significance is controversial).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
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. Use with caution during pregnancy if clearly needed. Excreted in low concentrations in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cefixime or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin (cross-sensitivity can occur).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Increased prothrombin time (PT) with concomitant use, requiring careful monitoring of INR.
Carbamazepine
Increased carbamazepine levels have been reported when co-administered with cefixime.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives (though clinical significance is controversial).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
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. Use with caution during pregnancy if clearly needed. Excreted in low concentrations in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Patent expired, generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of cefixime for its approved indications globally. Post-marketing surveillance continues to monitor for new findings.
Lab Monitoring
- Periodic monitoring of renal function, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or those on prolonged therapy. Complete blood count may be monitored during prolonged therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of completing the entire course of therapy to prevent recurrence and the development of antibiotic resistance.
- Advise patients to report any signs of allergic reactions (e.g., rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) immediately.
- Caution regarding potential drug interactions, especially with Warfarin, and the need for INR monitoring.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence and resistance.
- Do not skip doses or stop taking the medicine early without consulting your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about any unusual side effects or allergic reactions, especially rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
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 take two doses at once.
Driving Precautions
Cefixime may cause dizziness or lightheadedness in some individuals. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during the course of treatment as it may exacerbate side effects.
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.