FARONEM 50 SYRUP

🦠💧 Faropenem 50 mg/5 mL Suspension: A Versatile Oral Carbapenem Antibiotic

Faropenem is a broad‑spectrum, orally active carbapenem antibiotic formulated as a suspension of 50 mg per 5 mL. It is particularly valued for its stability in acidic environments, enabling effective absorption through the gastrointestinal tract. Faropenem’s chemical structure grants it resistance to many β‑lactamases, making it active against a wide range of gram‑positive, gram‑negative, and anaerobic pathogens.

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🔬 Mechanism of Action

• Inhibition of cell‑wall synthesis: Faropenem binds to penicillin‑binding proteins (PBPs) on the bacterial cell wall, blocking the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan cross‑linking.

• Bactericidal effect: Disruption of cell‑wall integrity leads to osmotic lysis and bacterial death.

• β‑lactamase stability: The drug’s structure resists hydrolysis by many common β‑lactamases (including ESBLs), preserving its activity.

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📋 Microbiological Spectrum

Effective against:

• Gram‑positive cocci: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA)

• Gram‑negative bacilli: Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis

• Anaerobes: Bacteroides fragilis and other Bacteroides species

It is not reliable against Pseudomonas aeruginosa or most carbapenem‑resistant organisms.

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📌 Indications

Faropenem 50 mg/5 mL suspension is indicated for:

• Acute bacterial sinusitis

• Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis

• Community‑acquired pneumonia (mild to moderate)

• Pharyngitis and tonsillitis

• Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (cystitis)

• Skin and soft tissue infections (impetigo, cellulitis)

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💊 Dosage & Administration

• Children (2–12 years): 15 mg/kg/day, divided into two or three doses daily, for 7–14 days, depending on infection severity.

• Adolescents & Adults: When used off‑label in adults, typical dosage is 300 mg to 600 mg daily, divided two to three times. However, adult dosing should follow local guidelines.

• Administration: Shake well before each use. Measure with an oral dosing syringe for accuracy. Can be taken with or without food.

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⚠️ Precautions & Warnings

• Allergy alert: Contraindicated in patients with a history of β‑lactam hypersensitivity (penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems).

• Gastrointestinal disease: Use cautiously in patients with a history of colitis. Antibiotic‑associated diarrhea, including C. difficile infection, may occur.

• Renal impairment: Dose adjustment may be required for severe renal dysfunction.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Limited data—use only if clearly needed and after risk–benefit assessment.

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🤒 Side Effects

Common (≥1%):

• Diarrhea

• Nausea/vomiting

• Abdominal pain

• Headache

Less common/serious:

• Hypersensitivity reactions: rash, urticaria, angioedema

• Seizures (rare, in patients with CNS disorders or high serum levels)

• Hepatic enzyme elevations

• Clostridioides difficile–associated diarrhea

Discontinue therapy and seek medical attention if severe allergic or neurological symptoms occur.

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🔄 Drug Interactions

• Probenecid: May increase serum levels of faropenem—use with caution.

• Oral contraceptives: Antibiotics can reduce efficacy; advise additional barrier protection.

• Other nephrotoxic agents: Monitor renal function when co‑administered.

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🧊 Storage & Handling

• Store suspension at 2–8 °C (refrigerate); do not freeze.

• Discard any unused portion 14 days after reconstitution.

• Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children.

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📝 Conclusion

Faropenem 50 mg/5 mL suspension offers a convenient oral carbapenem option for pediatric and select adult bacterial infections. Its broad spectrum, oral bioavailability, and β‑lactamase stability make it a valuable tool in combating resistant pathogens. As with all antibiotics, responsible use—guided by culture and sensitivity data—is essential to preserve its efficacy and reduce the emergence of resistance.

 Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.