Mahacef 50

MAHACEF 50 Tablet

MAHACEF 50 is an antibiotic medication manufactured by Mankind Pharma Pvt Ltd (Discovery Division), commonly prescribed to treat a variety of bacterial infections.

• Name

  • Brand Name: MAHACEF 50 (e.g., MAHACEF 50mg Tablet)
  • Common Name: Cefixime

• Composition

  • Each MAHACEF 50 tablet contains Cefixime 50 mg as the active ingredient. Cefixime works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, which weakens and ultimately destroys the bacteria, stopping the infection from spreading.

• Uses MAHACEF 50 is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including:

  • Ear infections (e.g., otitis media)
  • Nose and sinus infections (e.g., sinusitis)
  • Throat infections (e.g., tonsillitis, pharyngitis)
  • Chest and lung infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia)
  • Urinary tract infections (e.g., cystitis, kidney infections, urethritis)
  • Uncomplicated gonorrhea (cervical/urethral)
  • Typhoid fever

• Dosage and Administration

  • MAHACEF 50 is taken orally. It can be consumed with or without food, though some sources suggest taking it an hour before or two hours after meals for better absorption. If stomach upset occurs, it may be taken with meals.
  • Tablets should be swallowed whole; do not crush, break, or chew them.
  • The dose and duration of treatment are determined by a doctor based on the type and severity of the infection, age, and body weight. It is crucial to complete the entire prescribed course of medicine, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or developing antibiotic resistance.
  • If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, in which case the missed dose should be skipped. Do not double dose.

• Side Effects

  • Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, loose stools, abdominal pain, indigestion, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and itching.
  • Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include severe diarrhea (especially with blood in stools), severe stomach cramps, rash, itching, hives, difficulty breathing, wheezing, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat. Overdose may lead to seizures.

• Precautions

  • Do not take MAHACEF 50 if you are allergic to Cefixime, other cephalosporin antibiotics, or any components of the medicine.
  • Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, including a history of seizures, liver or kidney dysfunction, heart disorders, or inflammation of the colon (colitis).
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking this medicine.
  • MAHACEF 50 is an antibiotic and is not effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu.
  • It may interact with certain medications such as anti-epileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), and gout medication (e.g., probenecid). It may also affect the results of certain laboratory tests, including urine glucose tests.
  • Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery, as MAHACEF 50 may cause dizziness.

• Storage

  • Store MAHACEF 50 in a cool and dry place, below 25°C or 30°C, protected from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.

MAHACEF 50, manufactured by Mankind - Discovery Division, contains the active ingredient Cefixime, which is an antibiotic. Here are some frequently asked questions about this medication:

What is MAHACEF 50 used for?

MAHACEF 50, containing Cefixime, is an antibiotic primarily used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. These include infections of the ear (otitis media), throat (tonsillitis, pharyngitis), respiratory tract (bronchitis, pneumonia), urinary tract (including bladder and kidney infections), and uncomplicated gonorrhea and typhoid fever. It is important to note that MAHACEF 50 is effective only against bacterial infections and will not work for viral infections like the common cold or flu.

How does MAHACEF 50 work?

MAHACEF 50 works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. Its active ingredient, Cefixime, belongs to a class of antibiotics called cephalosporins. It acts by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, a crucial protective layer for bacteria. By disrupting this process, Cefixime weakens the cell wall, leading to bacterial cell death.

What is the usual dosage for MAHACEF 50?

The specific dosage of MAHACEF 50 (Cefixime 50mg) will be determined by a doctor based on the patient's age, weight, and the severity and type of infection. For adults and children over 12 years of age weighing more than 50 kg, the general recommended dose of Cefixime is 400 mg once daily or 200 mg every 12 hours. For children aged 6 months to 12 years (and weighing less than 50 kg), the dose is typically 8 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, given as a single dose or divided into two doses (4 mg/kg every 12 hours).

What are the possible side effects of MAHACEF 50?

Common side effects of MAHACEF 50 include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, stomach upset, gas, heartburn, and skin rash. More serious, but less common, side effects can occur, such as severe allergic reactions (symptoms include severe rash, itching, hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, throat, or tongue), severe watery or bloody diarrhea (which can occur even months after treatment), liver damage, kidney damage, or seizures. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Is MAHACEF 50 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Cefixime (the active ingredient in MAHACEF 50) is categorized as a Pregnancy Category B drug. This means animal studies have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. MAHACEF 50 should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary and under the direct advice of your healthcare provider. Breastfeeding: It is not known if Cefixime passes into breast milk. While cephalosporins are generally not expected to cause significant adverse effects in breastfed infants, caution is advised. Temporary disruption of the infant's gut flora, potentially leading to diarrhea or thrush, has been reported with cephalosporins. Consult your doctor before taking MAHACEF 50 if you are breastfeeding.

Can MAHACEF 50 be taken with other medications?

MAHACEF 50 can interact with certain medications. For example, Probenecid can increase the blood concentration of Cefixime. Taking it with aminoglycosides may increase the risk of kidney issues. Exenatide might delay or reduce the absorption of Cefixime. It can also increase the effect of blood-thinning medications like warfarin. The effectiveness of certain live vaccines (like BCG, cholera, and typhoid vaccines) and possibly some oral contraceptives may be decreased. Always inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking MAHACEF 50?

Before taking MAHACEF 50, inform your doctor if you have any allergies to penicillin or other cephalosporin antibiotics, kidney disease, liver problems, a history of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, phenylketonuria (if taking chewable tablets containing aspartame), or blood clotting problems. Do not use this medicine for viral infections. It is crucial to complete the entire prescribed course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.

What happens if a dose of MAHACEF 50 is missed?

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

How should MAHACEF 50 be stored?

MAHACEF 50 tablets should be stored at room temperature (between 20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F), away from excessive heat and moisture. If you have the oral liquid suspension (after it has been mixed), it can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Any unused liquid suspension should be discarded after 14 days. Always keep the container tightly closed and out of the reach of children.