Oflomac M Susp

OFLOMAC M SUSP by MACLEODS-PHARMACORE DIV.

Name

• Common Name: Oflomac-M Suspension
• Brand Name: OFLOMAC M SUSP (by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd.)

Composition

Oflomac-M Suspension is a combination antibiotic containing two active ingredients:

• Ofloxacin: A fluoroquinolone antibiotic, typically 50mg per dose. It works by inhibiting bacterial DNA replication, leading to bacterial cell death.
• Metronidazole: A nitroimidazole antibiotic/antimicrobial, typically 100mg per dose. It kills bacteria and parasites by damaging their DNA.

Uses

Oflomac-M Suspension is prescribed for a wide range of bacterial and parasitic infections, especially in children. These include:

• Diarrhea and dysentery (including amoebic dysentery)
• Infections of the teeth (abscesses, gum infections), lungs (pneumonia, bronchitis), gastrointestinal tract (gastroenteritis, ulcers), urinary tract, genital tract, skin, throat, and ear.
• Systemic infections.

Dosage and Administration

Oflomac-M Suspension is administered orally, usually twice a day (morning and evening). It can be taken with or without food; however, it is recommended to take it with food if stomach upset occurs. The exact dose and duration of treatment should be strictly followed as prescribed by a doctor, as it depends on the type and severity of the infection, and the patient's age and weight. It is crucial to complete the entire course of treatment to prevent infection recurrence or bacterial resistance.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain/cramps
• Diarrhea, loss of appetite
• Headache, dizziness, sleeplessness
• Metallic taste in mouth
• Urine discoloration (red-brown, due to metronidazole)
• Mild skin rash, genital itching in women, vaginal inflammation

Serious Side Effects (Seek medical attention immediately if experienced):

• Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, swelling of face/mouth/throat, difficulty breathing)
• Seizures, tremors, severe headache, sudden weakness
• Tendonitis or tendon rupture (rare)

Precautions

• Patients should complete the full prescribed course of treatment.
• Avoid concomitant administration of calcium, magnesium, iron, vitamin supplements, or antacids within 2 hours of taking Oflomac-M Suspension, as these can affect absorption.
• Use with caution in patients with a history of liver problems, kidney problems, heart disease, seizure disorders, or certain gastrointestinal diseases.
• Not generally recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment to prevent adverse reactions.
• If dizziness or drowsiness occurs, avoid driving or operating machinery.
• Protect from excessive sun exposure as it may increase photosensitivity.

Storage

Store Oflomac-M Suspension below 25°C in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

1. What is OFLOMAC M SUSP used for?

OFLOMAC M SUSP is an antibiotic medicine used to treat a wide range of bacterial and parasitic infections, primarily in children. It is effective against infections affecting the gastrointestinal tract (like diarrhea and dysentery), skin, throat, ears, lungs, urinary tract, and genital tract. It can also be used for conditions such as tooth abscesses and gum infections.

2. How does OFLOMAC M SUSP work?

OFLOMAC M SUSP is a combination medicine containing two active ingredients: Ofloxacin and Metronidazole. Ofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, works by inhibiting enzymes crucial for bacterial DNA replication and repair, leading to the death of the bacterial cells. Metronidazole, an anti-amoebic and antibiotic, targets parasites and anaerobic bacteria by damaging their DNA and inhibiting protein synthesis, thus eliminating the infection-causing organisms.

3. What is the usual dosage for OFLOMAC M SUSP?

The dosage of OFLOMAC M SUSP should be strictly followed as prescribed by your doctor. It is administered orally and can be taken with or without food. Always shake the bottle well before use and use a measuring cup or syringe for accurate dosing. It's crucial to complete the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or developing resistance. If vomiting occurs within 30 minutes of a dose, the same dose may need to be given again, but do not double the next dose.

4. What are the possible side effects of OFLOMAC M SUSP?

Common side effects of OFLOMAC M SUSP may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain or cramps, headache, dizziness, a metallic taste in the mouth, loss of appetite, and sleeplessness. It can also cause a harmless red-brown discoloration of urine due to Metronidazole. More serious but rare side effects include seizures or severe allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue, difficulty breathing, and severe skin rashes.

5. Is OFLOMAC M SUSP safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

OFLOMAC M SUSP is generally not recommended for use in pregnant women, especially during the first trimester. For breastfeeding women, it is also not recommended, as its components may pass into breast milk and could potentially affect the baby. Always consult a doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding before taking this medication.

6. Can OFLOMAC M SUSP be taken with other medications?

OFLOMAC M SUSP can interact with other medicines. It is important to inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products being taken to avoid potential interactions. Specifically, avoid giving calcium-rich foods or dairy products within two hours of taking OFLOMAC M SUSP, as they can interfere with the absorption of Ofloxacin. It can also interact with blood thinners (like warfarin), lithium, certain anti-epileptic drugs (phenytoin, carbamazepine), cancer medications, and immunosuppressants.

7. What precautions should be taken while using OFLOMAC M SUSP?

Several precautions should be observed when using OFLOMAC M SUSP. It is crucial to complete the full prescribed course of treatment. Alcohol consumption should be avoided during treatment and for at least 2-3 days afterward, as it can cause unpleasant side effects. The medicine can make the skin sensitive to sunlight, so prolonged exposure should be avoided, and sunscreen should be used if necessary. Caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing conditions such as kidney problems, liver disease, seizure disorders, or heart disease. If any signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) occur, discontinue the medicine and seek immediate medical attention.

8. What happens if a dose of OFLOMAC M SUSP is missed?

If a dose of OFLOMAC M SUSP is missed, administer 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. Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.

9. How should OFLOMAC M SUSP be stored?

OFLOMAC M SUSP should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. It should be kept out of the sight and reach of children. The recommended storage temperature is typically below 25°C, or between 10°C to 25°C (below 30°C).