Cefolac O Sus

CEFOLAC O SUS by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

Name: Cefolac O Suspension (commonly found as Cefolac-O Dry Syrup or Syrup for reconstitution)

• Brand Names: Cefolac O

Composition: Cefolac O Suspension typically contains a combination of two active antibiotic ingredients:

• Cefixime: A cephalosporin antibiotic.
• Ofloxacin: A fluoroquinolone antibiotic. For example, Cefolac-O 50mg/50mg Dry Syrup contains Cefixime 50 mg and Ofloxacin 50 mg per 5 ml after reconstitution.

Uses: Cefolac O Suspension is a broad-spectrum antibiotic prescribed to treat a variety of bacterial infections:

• Typhoid fever
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Respiratory tract infections, including those affecting the lungs, throat, sinuses, tonsils, and bronchi
• Middle ear infections (otitis media)
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Reproductive tract infections (e.g., gonorrhea) It works by interfering with bacterial cell wall formation (Cefixime) and inhibiting bacterial DNA replication (Ofloxacin), thereby preventing bacterial growth and multiplication.

Dosage and Administration: Cefolac O Suspension should be taken as prescribed by a doctor.

• The dry syrup is typically reconstituted with sterile water before use.
• It can be administered orally, preferably at a fixed time, with or without food. Taking it with meals may help if stomach upset occurs.
• The dose and duration of treatment depend on the type and severity of the infection, the patient's age, and body weight.
• It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning and to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, indigestion, stomach pain, and diarrhea (which may be severe)
• Headache and dizziness
• Dry mouth

Serious side effects, though rare, can occur:

• Allergic reactions (rash, joint pain, swelling of lips, face, throat, or tongue, difficulty breathing)
• Signs of liver disease (loss of appetite, yellow skin and eyes, dark urine)
• Pseudomembranous colitis (severe watery diarrhea)
• Inflammation of the bowel
• Swelling of the tendons

Precautions:

• Inform your doctor about any allergies, especially to cephalosporin or fluoroquinolone antibiotics, or penicillin.
• Patients with liver or kidney disease, heart problems, or a history of seizures should use this medicine with caution and inform their doctor.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Cefolac O is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding; consult a doctor.
• Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of side effects.
• This medicine may cause dizziness or headaches; avoid driving or operating machinery if affected.
• Avoid taking calcium, magnesium, iron, vitamins, or antacids within 2 hours of Cefolac O Suspension, as they can interfere with absorption.
• Do not use for viral infections (e.g., common cold or flu), as antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.
• Avoid unnecessary exposure to sunlight, as this medicine may increase skin sensitivity.

Storage:

• Store below 30°C (86°F), in a cool and dry place.
• Protect from moisture and light.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• After reconstitution, store at room temperature or under refrigeration, as directed by your pharmacist or the product leaflet.

Here are frequently asked questions about CEFOLAC O SUS by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

What is CEFOLAC O SUS used for?

CEFOLAC O SUS is an antibiotic medicine primarily used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is effective against infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, middle ear, reproductive organs (gonorrhea), skin, soft tissues, and typhoid fever. This medication does not work against viral infections such as the common cold or flu.

How does CEFOLAC O SUS work?

CEFOLAC O SUS contains two active ingredients: Cefixime and Ofloxacin. Cefixime, a cephalosporin antibiotic, works by interfering with the formation of the bacterial cell wall, which is essential for the bacteria's survival, thus preventing their growth and multiplication. Ofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, inhibits a bacterial enzyme involved in repairing and replicating the bacteria's DNA, preventing them from reproducing or repairing themselves. Together, these actions effectively kill the infecting bacteria.

What is the usual dosage for CEFOLAC O SUS?

The dosage and duration of CEFOLAC O SUS depend on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient's age and body weight. It should be taken as advised by your physician. For dry syrup, it is typically given orally, preferably at a fixed time, with or without meals. If stomach upset occurs, taking it with meals is preferred. Always complete the full course of the antibiotic as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or becoming harder to treat.

What are the possible side effects of CEFOLAC O SUS?

Common side effects include indigestion, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and gas. Other possible side effects are headache, dizziness, dry mouth, and abdominal pain. If these side effects worsen or persist, you should consult your doctor. More serious but rare side effects can include allergic reactions (rash, joint pain, swallowing or breathing problems, swollen lips, face, throat, or tongue), signs of liver disease (loss of appetite, yellow skin and eyes, dark urine, itching), severe watery diarrhea (pseudomembranous colitis), inflammation of the bowel, or swelling of the tendons.

Is CEFOLAC O SUS safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

CEFOLAC O SUS is generally not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. In pregnant women, it may affect the developing joints of the fetus. For breastfeeding women, it is not recommended as it may harm the infant. Your doctor may prescribe this medicine only if the potential benefits are considered to outweigh the risks. If used during breastfeeding, the baby should be monitored for symptoms such as diarrhea or yeast infections.

Can CEFOLAC O SUS be taken with other medications?

CEFOLAC O SUS can interact with certain medications. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, including prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal remedies, that you are currently taking. Interactions may occur with:

• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, heparin), which may increase the risk of bleeding.
• Antacids or medicines for stomach ulcers (e.g., aluminium hydroxide, magnesium carbonate, sucralfate, cimetidine); these should be taken at least two hours apart from CEFOLAC O SUS to prevent absorption interference.
• Medicines or dietary supplements containing iron or zinc.
• Medicines used to control high blood sugar levels (e.g., glibenclamide, metformin).
• Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, diclofenac) or medicines for inflammatory conditions (e.g., hydrocortisone, prednisolone).
• Theophylline (used for breathing problems).
• Carbamazepine (used to manage fits).
• Didanosine (used in HIV management).
• Certain antibiotics (e.g., chloramphenicol) or drugs known to prolong the QT interval (e.g., certain antiarrhythmics, tricyclic antidepressants, macrolides, antipsychotics). Avoid dairy products as they can interfere with absorption.

What precautions should be taken while using CEFOLAC O SUS?

Before taking CEFOLAC O SUS, inform your doctor if you have any heart, liver, or kidney problems, diabetes, or a history of fits/epilepsy. Individuals with a history of tendonitis (inflammation of a tendon), myasthenia gravis, or a family history of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency should also use caution. Avoid consuming alcohol during treatment, as it may worsen side effects and impair concentration. This medication may cause dizziness or headaches, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery. Complete the entire course of the antibiotic to prevent antibiotic resistance and ensure complete treatment of the infection.

What happens if a dose of CEFOLAC O SUS is missed?

If you miss a dose of CEFOLAC O SUS, 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 to make up for the missed one.

How should CEFOLAC O SUS be stored?

CEFOLAC O SUS should be stored in a cool and dry place, below 25°C or 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets. For reconstituted suspensions, follow the specific storage instructions provided with the medicine, which may include storage at room temperature or under refrigeration. Ensure proper disposal of unused medicine.