Cefolac- Dt 50 Tablet (10 Tab)

CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET

CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET, manufactured by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD., is a widely used antibiotic belonging to the cephalosporin class. It is available as a dispersible tablet.

• Composition: Each tablet contains Cefixime (50 mg) as its active ingredient. Cefixime works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, which weakens and ultimately destroys the bacteria, preventing their growth and multiplication.

• Uses: This medicine is prescribed to treat a broad range of bacterial infections in both adults and children over 10 years of age. It is effective against infections of the ear (otitis media), nose, throat (tonsillitis, pharyngitis), sinuses (sinusitis), respiratory tract (bronchitis, pneumonia), urinary tract (cystitis, kidney infections), biliary tract, and genital tract (uncomplicated gonorrhea). It is also used in the management of typhoid fever. CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET does not treat viral infections like the common cold or flu.

• Dosage and Administration: The dosage and duration depend on the type and severity of the infection, and it should be strictly followed as prescribed by a doctor. It can be taken with or without food, though taking it an hour before or two hours after meals may ensure better absorption. If stomach upset occurs, it can be taken with meals. The tablet should be dissolved in a glass of water before consumption; it should not be chewed, crushed, or broken. It's crucial to complete the entire course of medication even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from recurring or becoming resistant.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, indigestion, dyspepsia, loose stools, headache, dizziness, and itchiness of the genital areas. Serious side effects, though less common, can include severe uncontrollable watery diarrhea, unusual bleeding or bruising, bloody urine, signs of brain damage (fits, confusion), and severe allergic reactions.

• Precautions: Inform your doctor about any history of allergies to antibiotics (especially penicillins), kidney problems, or stomach issues before taking this medicine. It should be used with caution in pregnant and breastfeeding women, only if considered necessary by a physician. CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET may interact with certain medications like Carbamazepine and blood thinners such as Warfarin. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if your ability is affected.

• Storage: Store CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET in a cool and dry place, below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children.

What is CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET used for?

CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET is primarily used to treat various bacterial infections. These include infections of the ear (e.g., otitis media), nose, throat (e.g., tonsillitis, pharyngitis), sinuses (sinusitis), respiratory tract (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia), urinary tract (e.g., cystitis, kidney infections), biliary tract, and genital tract (e.g., uncomplicated gonorrhea). It is also effective in managing typhoid fever.

How does CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET work?

CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET contains Cefixime, which is a powerful antibiotic belonging to the cephalosporin class. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. This action weakens and eventually destroys the bacterial cell wall, leading to the death of the bacteria and reducing the severity of the infection. Cefixime is also stable in the presence of certain beta-lactamase enzymes, which are proteins produced by some bacteria that can otherwise inactivate other antibiotics.

What is the usual dosage for CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET?

The dosage of CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET varies depending on the infection and the patient's age. For children, the dosage can be 5 mg/kg per dose, administered every 12 hours, with a maximum dose of 200 mg per dose for conditions like otitis media. For adults, common dosages include 200 mg every 12 hours for conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, or sinusitis, and 100 mg every 12 hours for urinary tract infections. Uncomplicated gonorrhea may be treated with a single 200 mg dose. It is crucial to follow the specific instructions and duration prescribed by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET?

Common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, indigestion, headache, dizziness, and itching. More serious, though less common, side effects may include severe watery diarrhea (which could indicate Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea), unusual bleeding or bruising, bloody urine, signs of brain damage (such as confusion or seizures), and severe allergic reactions like rash, hives, swelling of the face or tongue, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Is CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET (Cefixime) should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and considered necessary by a physician. While animal studies have not shown harmful effects on the fetus, adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women are limited. Breastfeeding: Cefixime is excreted in human milk. It should be used with caution in breastfeeding women, and mothers are often advised to stop breastfeeding during treatment with cefpodoxime. Always consult your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits.

Can CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET be taken with other medications?

CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET can interact with several medications. For instance, it may interact with blood thinners like warfarin, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. Carbamazepine, used for epilepsy, may also have increased toxicity when taken with this antibiotic. Antacids, H2-blockers, and proton pump inhibitors can reduce the absorption of Cefixime, so it's often recommended to separate their administration by at least 2 hours. The effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines (like the cholera vaccine) and oral contraceptives may also be reduced. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking.

What precautions should be taken while taking CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET?

Before taking CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET, inform your doctor if you have any allergies (especially to cephalosporins or penicillins), or if you have a history of kidney problems, liver disease, stomach problems, bowel inflammation, seizure disorders, or hemolytic anemia. It is crucial to complete the entire prescribed course of the antibiotic, even if your symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning and to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. This medication treats bacterial infections and will not work for viral infections like the common cold or flu. Exercise caution when driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience side effects that affect your ability.

What happens if a dose of CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET be stored?

CEFOLAC- DT 50 TABLET should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children. It is generally recommended to store it at temperatures below 30ºC.