Zemicef-DS
Generic Name
Cefixime 200 mg/5 ml Suspension
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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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 200 mg Suspension is an oral antibiotic belonging to the third-generation cephalosporin class. It is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and ear infections. The 'DS' indicates double strength, meaning it contains 200 mg of Cefixime per 5 ml of suspension, typically used in pediatric dosing or for higher strength requirements.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Adults usually take tablet formulations. If suspension is used, consult a physician for appropriate dosage (e.g., 400 mg once daily or 200 mg every 12 hours).
Children
6 months to 12 years: 8 mg/kg/day, given as a single daily dose or in two divided doses (e.g., 4 mg/kg every 12 hours) for 5-10 days. For 200 mg/5 ml suspension, 2.5 ml for a child requiring 100 mg.
Renal_impairment
For pediatric patients with creatinine clearance <30 mL/min, the dose should be reduced. Consult a physician for specific guidance.
How to Take
For oral administration. Shake the bottle well before each use. Can be taken with or without food. Measure the dose accurately using the provided measuring spoon or dropper.
Mechanism of Action
Cefixime is a bactericidal antibiotic that acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, which are responsible for the final stages of peptidoglycan synthesis, a crucial component of the bacterial cell wall. This inhibition leads to cell wall disruption and bacterial cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects typically seen within 1-2 hours of administration.
Excretion
Primarily excreted by the kidneys (approximately 50% unchanged drug in urine); some biliary excretion.
Half life
Approximately 3-4 hours.
Absorption
Approximately 40-50% orally absorbed. Food slightly delays absorption but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
Metabolism
Not extensively metabolized; primarily eliminated as unchanged drug.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cefixime or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring INR monitoring.
Carbamazepine
Increased plasma levels of carbamazepine have been reported with concomitant cefixime administration.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives; advise additional non-hormonal contraception.
Storage
Store dry powder below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Reconstituted suspension should be stored in a refrigerator (2-8°C) and discarded after 7 or 14 days (check specific product instructions for exact duration).
Overdose
In case of overdose, gastric lavage may be indicated. Cefixime is not removed in significant quantities by dialysis. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cefixime or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring INR monitoring.
Carbamazepine
Increased plasma levels of carbamazepine have been reported with concomitant cefixime administration.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives; advise additional non-hormonal contraception.
Storage
Store dry powder below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Reconstituted suspension should be stored in a refrigerator (2-8°C) and discarded after 7 or 14 days (check specific product instructions for exact duration).
Overdose
In case of overdose, gastric lavage may be indicated. Cefixime is not removed in significant quantities by dialysis. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Unreconstituted powder: Check expiry date on packaging. Reconstituted suspension: Typically 7-14 days when stored as directed (usually refrigerated).
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by drug regulatory authorities globally (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available, off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of cefixime in various bacterial infections, particularly in pediatric populations. Ongoing post-marketing surveillance continues to monitor its use and safety profile.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (e.g., creatinine clearance) in patients with impaired renal function
- INR/PT for patients on warfarin
- Complete blood count (CBC) during prolonged therapy
Doctor Notes
- Advise parents on proper measurement and administration of suspension, emphasizing the importance of shaking well before each use.
- Emphasize completion of the entire prescribed course of antibiotic treatment to prevent resistance and recurrence of infection.
- Monitor patients for signs of superinfection (e.g., fungal infections) or Clostridioides difficile infection.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of antibiotic treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent resistance.
- Shake the suspension well before each use.
- Do not store leftover medicine; discard any unused portion after the treatment course.
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 generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if side effects like dizziness occur, patients should avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
- Avoid self-medication with antibiotics.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.