🩺 Faropenem 200 mg Tablet – Complete Drug Profile

Overview

Faropenem is a broad-spectrum oral beta-lactam antibiotic belonging to the penem class. It is primarily used to treat bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and gynecological infections. Faropenem is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and is often prescribed when resistance to other antibiotics is suspected.

Brand Names: Farobact, Faropen, Farozem
Strength: 200 mg
Dosage Form: Oral Tablet
Prescription: Required

Common Side Effects

Faropenem is generally well tolerated, but some common side effects may include:

• Gastrointestinal upset: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain

• Headache

• Rash or itching

• Dizziness

• Flatulence

These side effects are usually mild and transient, resolving with continued use or dose adjustment.

Serious Side Effects

Though rare, some serious side effects may occur, requiring immediate medical attention:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis): Swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, severe rash

• Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea: Persistent or bloody diarrhea, which may indicate antibiotic-associated colitis

• Liver enzyme elevation: Jaundice, dark urine, or elevated liver function tests

• Seizures: Particularly in patients with renal impairment or a history of seizures

• Blood disorders: Leukopenia, thrombocytopenia (rare)

Monitoring & Follow-Up

When prescribing or taking Faropenem, the following parameters should be monitored:

• Renal function tests: Especially in elderly patients or those with kidney disease

• Liver function tests (LFTs): Periodically in prolonged use

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): For signs of bone marrow suppression

• Response to infection: Clinical improvement in symptoms within 48–72 hours

Follow-up is essential to assess treatment effectiveness and side effects. In case of no clinical response, reevaluation of diagnosis or antibiotic sensitivity may be required.

Warnings & Precautions

• Allergy: Avoid if allergic to penems, penicillins, or other beta-lactams.

• Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment may be needed.

• Pregnancy & Lactation: Use only if clearly needed; limited human data.

• Pediatric Use: Use under specialist guidance, as safety data is limited in children.

• Drug Interactions: Caution when co-administered with probenecid or valproic acid.

Do not use Faropenem to treat viral infections such as the flu or common cold. Misuse may lead to antibiotic resistance.

Summary

Faropenem 200 mg is a potent oral antibiotic used for various bacterial infections. While generally well tolerated, it may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms and, rarely, serious allergic or gastrointestinal reactions. Monitoring kidney and liver function is advised, especially with prolonged use. It should be used cautiously in special populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and patients with renal issues. Proper use of Faropenem not only ensures effectiveness but also helps prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance.

Always follow your doctor’s advice, dosage instructions, and never self-medicate.