Zedocef Drop

ZEDOCEF DROP by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD is an antibiotic primarily used to treat various bacterial infections in children.

Name

• Brand Name: ZEDOCEF DROP
• Manufacturer: MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD

Composition

ZEDOCEF DROP contains Cefpodoxime Proxetil. It is typically available in concentrations such as 25 mg/ml or 100 mg per dose, depending on the specific product variant. Cefpodoxime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic.

Uses

ZEDOCEF DROP is prescribed for managing a variety of bacterial infections in children, including:

• Respiratory tract infections: bronchitis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and pharyngitis.
• Acute otitis media (middle ear infection).
• Skin and soft tissue bacterial infections.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Sinusitis.
• Typhoid fever.

It works by preventing bacteria from forming their protective cell wall, leading to their death. It is not effective against viral infections.

Dosage and Administration

ZEDOCEF DROP should be administered orally using the provided dropper, as prescribed by a doctor. It can be given with or without food, though giving it with food may help manage nausea and vomiting. For reconstitution, tap the bottle to loosen the powder, add two-thirds of the sterile water (provided), shake vigorously, then add more water up to the mark and shake well. The suspension should stand for 5 minutes before use. Doses should be given at evenly spaced intervals, and the full course of treatment must be completed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent antibiotic resistance. If a child vomits within 30 minutes of administration, the same dose should be given again.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Diarrhea (which can sometimes be severe and may require medical attention).
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Abdominal pain/stomach pain.
• Headache.
• Diaper rash or skin rash.
• Dizziness.

Serious side effects, though less common, can include severe diarrhea due to pseudomembranous colitis and signs of allergic reactions such as skin rash, joint pain, swelling of the lips, face, throat, or tongue, and difficulty breathing.

Precautions

• Allergies: Contraindicated in children with known allergies to cefpodoxime or any other cephalosporin antibiotics, or a history of severe allergic reactions to penicillin.
• Kidney and Liver Impairment: Use with caution in children with impaired kidney or liver function, as dosage adjustments or monitoring may be necessary.
• Drug Interactions: Inform the doctor about other medications, including antacids, gastric medicines (e.g., ranitidine, cimetidine), probenecid, aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin), and loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide), as these can interact with ZEDOCEF DROP.
• Age: Not recommended for infants below 2 months of age due to immature kidney function.
• Antibiotic Resistance: Emphasize completing the entire prescribed course to prevent antibiotic resistance.

Storage

Unopened ZEDOCEF DROP should be stored at room temperature, ideally not exceeding 25°C, protected from light and moisture. After opening and mixing with water, the reconstituted suspension should be refrigerated between 2-8°C and used within 14 days. Any unused portion after 14 days must be discarded. It should be kept out of reach of children and pets.

ZEDOCEF DROP by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD is an antibiotic medicine containing Cefpodoxime, primarily prescribed to children for treating various bacterial infections.

Here are some frequently asked questions about ZEDOCEF DROP:

What is ZEDOCEF DROP used for?

ZEDOCEF DROP is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections in children, including acute otitis media (ear infections), pharyngitis or tonsillitis (sore throat), sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and gonococcal infections. It is not effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu.

How does ZEDOCEF DROP work?

ZEDOCEF DROP contains Cefpodoxime, which is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria by inhibiting the formation of their cell walls, which are essential for their survival. This action ultimately leads to the death of the bacteria, thereby clearing the infection.

What is the usual dosage for ZEDOCEF DROP?

The dosage of ZEDOCEF DROP is determined by the child's doctor, based on the child's age, body weight, and the specific type and severity of the infection. It should be given exactly as prescribed. To prepare the suspension, tap the bottle to loosen the powder, add two-thirds of the sterile water provided, shake vigorously, then add more water up to the mark and shake again. Allow it to stand for 5 minutes before use, and measure the dose accurately with a medicine dropper. It is generally advised to give the medicine with food for better absorption.

What are the possible side effects of ZEDOCEF DROP?

Common side effects include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, and skin rash (which may include diaper rashes). If your child experiences severe diarrhea (especially with blood or mucus), signs of an allergic reaction (such as severe rash, joint pain, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or swelling of the lips, face, throat, or tongue), seek immediate medical attention.

Is ZEDOCEF DROP safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

ZEDOCEF DROP is primarily intended for use in children and is generally not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Limited data suggests that the medicine may pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby.

Can ZEDOCEF DROP be taken with other medications?

Inform your doctor about all other medicines your child is taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal products, and supplements. ZEDOCEF DROP should be used with caution or avoided with certain medications:

• Antacids (e.g., aluminium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide) and gastric ulcer medicines (e.g., ranitidine, cimetidine) can reduce its absorption and effectiveness. If necessary, take these at least 2 hours before or after ZEDOCEF DROP.
• Diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, bumetanide, furosemide) and other antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin, streptomycin, tobramycin) may increase the risk of kidney problems.
• Probenecid can increase the concentration of Cefpodoxime in the body, and its co-administration should be avoided.

What precautions should be taken while using ZEDOCEF DROP?

ZEDOCEF DROP is not recommended for infants under 2 months of age. Use with caution if your child has a history of impaired kidney function, liver problems, or gastrointestinal diseases, particularly colitis. It is contraindicated if your child is allergic to Cefpodoxime, other cephalosporin antibiotics, or has had severe allergic reactions to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics. Always complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning and to avoid antibiotic resistance.

What happens if a dose of ZEDOCEF DROP is missed?

If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not give a double dose to make up for the missed one. If your child vomits within 30 minutes of taking the medicine, you may need to repeat the same dose.

How should ZEDOCEF DROP be stored?

The unopened bottle should be stored at room temperature, typically not exceeding 25°C or below 30°C, and protected from light and moisture. Once the powder is mixed with water (reconstituted), the suspension should be refrigerated between 2-8°C. Any unused portion of the reconstituted suspension should be discarded after 14 days. Always keep the medicine out of reach of children and pets.