ARICEF-O 50 SYRUP

🌟 CEFIXIME 50mg/5ml SYRUP: A TRUSTED BROAD-SPECTRUM ANTIBIOTIC FOR CHILDREN 🌟

Cefixime 50mg/5ml syrup is a well-established third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic designed especially for pediatric use. It provides effective treatment against a broad range of bacterial infections and is favored for its once or twice-daily dosing, ease of administration, and strong safety profile in children. The formulation is typically prescribed to infants and young children, based on body weight, to combat infections caused by susceptible bacteria.

🔬 Composition and Mechanism of Action

• Cefixime (50mg per 5ml): The active ingredient is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death. It is bactericidal in nature and particularly effective against gram-negative organisms, with moderate action against gram-positive bacteria.

Cefixime is resistant to many beta-lactamases, making it effective against strains that are no longer responsive to older penicillin and cephalosporin antibiotics.

💊 Therapeutic Uses and Indications

Cefixime 50mg/5ml syrup is commonly used in the treatment of:

• Upper respiratory tract infections (e.g., pharyngitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis)

• Lower respiratory tract infections (e.g., bronchitis, mild pneumonia)

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Otitis media (middle ear infection)

• Typhoid fever (enteric fever) – especially in regions with rising resistance to other antibiotics

• Skin and soft tissue infections

It is often selected for its broad-spectrum coverage and suitability in children who are allergic to penicillins or cannot tolerate other antibiotics.

⚠️ Precautions and Contraindications

Precautions:

• Dose should be adjusted according to weight and severity of infection.

• May be taken with or without food, although taking it with food may improve gastrointestinal tolerance.

• Complete the full prescribed course, even if the child feels better early, to prevent antibiotic resistance.

Contraindications:

• Known allergy to cephalosporin antibiotics.

• History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to penicillins (due to potential cross-reactivity).

• Use with caution in children with renal impairment.

Always consult a pediatrician before use to determine appropriateness based on the child’s health and medical history.

🚨 Side Effects

Cefixime is generally well-tolerated, but like all antibiotics, it may cause some side effects:

• Common: Diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea

• Occasional: Vomiting, headache, dizziness, rash

• Rare but serious: Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), pseudomembranous colitis, changes in liver enzymes or blood counts

Parents should report any signs of allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, breathing difficulty) or prolonged diarrhea to a doctor promptly.

🧊 Storage and Handling

• Store reconstituted syrup in the refrigerator (2°C – 8°C).

• Use within 7–10 days of preparation and discard any leftover portion after this period.

• Shake well before each use for uniform dosing.

• Keep out of reach of children and do not freeze.

📋 Additional Notes

• Accurate dosing is crucial – use the measuring spoon or dropper provided.

• Do not skip doses or stop early unless advised by the physician.

• Cefixime is not effective for viral infections such as colds or flu.

Cefixime 50mg/5ml syrup is a reliable and effective antibiotic that plays a vital role in modern pediatric infection management. With its broad coverage, convenient dosing, and proven safety, it remains a first-line choice for treating a wide range of bacterial infections in children.