Cefrek
Cefrek Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Cefrek is a brand name. Its generic name is Cefixime.
Introduction
Cefrek is an antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It belongs to the cephalosporin antibiotics group, and works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.
Uses
Cefrek is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory and urinary tract infections, skin infections, sexually transmitted diseases, and gonorrhea.
Mechanism of Action
Cefrek works by interfering with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. This prevents the bacteria from forming the protective layer it needs to survive, and eventually causes the bacteria to die.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
Cefrek typically starts to work within 48 hours. Depending on the severity and type of infection, it can take up to 7 days or longer for the symptoms to fully resolve.
Absorption
Cefrek is absorbed in the small intestine and rapidly distributed throughout the body. Peak concentrations in the blood occur within 1-2 hours after taking a dose.
Route of Elimination
Cefrek is eliminated primarily in the urine, with only a small amount being eliminated in the feces.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of cefixime for adults is 100-200 mg every 12 hours, or 400 mg once daily. For pediatric patients, the dose range is 5-10 mg/kg/day, divided every 12 hours. For children younger than 5, the dose should not exceed 400 mg per day.
Administration
Cefrek should be taken with food for maximum absorption. It should be taken at the same time every day, and not skipped.
Side Effects
Common side effects of cefixime include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, dizziness, headache, stomach pain, and vaginitis. If any of these side effects are severe or persist, the patient should immediately seek medical attention.
Toxicity
Cefrek is considered to have a low toxicity profile, with no known overdose cases reported. It is important to carefully follow the dosage instructions to avoid potential side effects and drug interactions.
Precaution
Patients with certain allergies or medical conditions should take extra precaution when taking cefixime. Patients allergic to cephalosporin antibiotics, or with kidney or liver problems, should consult their doctor before taking cefixime.
Interactions
Cefrek may interact with certain medications, such as antacids or other antibiotics. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all medications you're taking in order to reduce the risk of potential interactions.
Drug Interactions
Cefrek may interact with other medications, including antibiotics, antacids, antidepressants, and diuretics. These medications can decrease the absorption of cefixime, potentially lowering its effectiveness.
Food Interactions
Cefrek should be taken with food. Taking it on an empty stomach can decrease its absorption and potentially make it less effective.
Pregnancy Use
Cefrek is classified as a pregnancy category B drug, meaning that its safety for use during pregnancy has not yet been established. It should only be used during pregnancy if the benefit outweighs the potential risks.
Lactation Use
Cefrek is also classified as a lactation category B drug. The excretion of the drug into breast milk is unknown, and it should be used with caution in breastfeeding mothers.
Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of cefixime is unlikely to cause any serious side effects, but if an overdose is suspected, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Contraindication
Cefrek is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should also not be used in patients with severe kidney or liver disease.
Use Direction
Cefrek should be taken as directed by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than directed.
Storage Condition
Cefrek should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in the original container and out of reach of children.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution for cefixime is 0.3 L/kg.
Half Life
The half life of cefixime is approximately 1.5 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of cefixime is 0.2 L/h/kg.
Here you find in details version of Cefrek
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Cefrek
What is Cefrek?
Cefrek is an antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including upper respiratory, urinary tract, and ear infections. It is taken by mouth and is available in capsule and suspension form.
How long does it take for Cefrek to work?
The effects of Cefrek can typically be seen within 48 hours of taking the medication. However, it may take longer for the infection to fully clear up.
How often should I take Cefrek?
Cefrek should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, you will take one dose by mouth once a day, or as directed by your doctor.
Is Cefrek safe to take while pregnant?
It is generally considered safe to take Cefrek while pregnant as it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking any medication while pregnant.
What are the side effects of Cefrek?
Common side effects of Cefrek include feeling dizzy or lightheaded, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor.
What should I avoid while taking Cefrek?
You should avoid alcohol and other medications with alcohol while taking Cefrek as they can increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, you should avoid taking other antibiotics while taking Cefrek as this can decrease the efficacy of the medication.
Can Cefrek be used to treat a UTI?
Yes, Cefrek is commonly used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), as it is an effective antibiotic for various bacterial infections. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking any medication for a UTI.
Is Cefrek safe for children?
Although Cefrek is FDA approved for use in adults, the safety and efficacy of Cefrek in children has not been established. Therefore, it is important to speak to your doctor before giving Cefrek to a child.
Is Cefrek resistant to penicillin?
No, Cefrek is not resistant to penicillin. It is a type of cephalosporin antibiotic, which is similar to penicillin in its mode of action.
Can I take Cefrek with other medications?
Yes, you can take Cefrek with other medications, but it is important to inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking. Additionally, do not take Cefrek with any other antibiotics.
What if I miss a dose of Cefrek?
If you miss a dose of Cefrek, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled.
Can I take Cefrek while breastfeeding?
Yes, Cefrek is safe to take while breastfeeding. However, it is important to inform your doctor of any medications you are taking while breastfeeding, including any Over The Counter (OTC) medications.
Is Cefrek an antibiotic?
Yes, Cefrek is an antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections.
Can Cefrek be used to treat pneumonia?
Yes, Cefrek is effective for treating some cases of pneumonia. However, it is important to speak to your doctor to determine the most effective course of treatment.
What type of bacteria does Cefrek treat?
Cefrek is an effective antibiotic for treating a wide range of bacterial infections, including upper respiratory, urinary tract, and ear infections. It is effective against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.
Is Cefrek safe for dogs?
Cefrek is not typically used to treat infections in dogs due to the concurrent risks and side effects. It is important to speak to your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication.
Can I take Cefrek with milk?
Yes, it is safe to take Cefrek with milk. However, you should avoid taking it with calcium-fortified beverages as this can reduce the absorption of the medication.
How do I store Cefrek?
Cefrek should be stored at room temperature away from light and excessive heat. Once opened, the suspension should be refrigerated and used within 10 days.
What is the dosage of Cefrek?
The recommended dosage of Cefrek is 400-800mg taken by mouth once daily or as directed by your doctor. It is important to speak to your doctor to determine the correct dosage for your condition.
Is Cefrek a sulfa drug?
No, Cefrek is not a sulfa drug. Sulfa drugs are sulfonamide antibiotics which contain a sulfonamide group, while Cefrek is a cephalosporin antibiotic.
Can Cefrek be used to treat gonorrhea?
Yes, Cefrek is effective in treating gonorrhea. However, it is important to take the full course of the medication as prescribed by your doctor to ensure the infection is completely cleared.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Cefrek?
If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction to Cefrek such as difficulty breathing, rash, itching, or swelling, contact your doctor or seek medical help immediately.
Can I take Cefrek with food?
Yes, it is safe to take Cefrek with food or immediately after a meal. However, do not take it with calcium-fortified foods or beverages as this can reduce the absorption of the medication.
Can Cefrek be used to treat a sinus infection?
Yes, Cefrek is effective in treating a range of bacterial sinus infections. However, it is important to speak to your doctor to determine the most effective course of treatment.
Does Cefrek have any drug interactions?
Yes, Cefrek has been known to interact with certain medications and supplements, including methotrexate, probenecid, and antacids, so it is important to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking.
Does Cefrek cause diarrhea?
Yes, Cefrek can cause diarrhea as a side effect. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor.
How long does Cefrek stay in your system?
Cefrek can remain in your system for up to 24 hours after you take it. Therefore, if you have missed a dose, it is important to take it as soon as possible.
What is the usual course of treatment for Cefrek?
The usual course of treatment for Cefrek is 7-10 days. It is important to take the full course of the medication as prescribed by your doctor for the infection to be cleared properly.
Is Cefrek a penicillin?
No, Cefrek is not a penicillin. It is a type of cephalosporin antibiotic, which is similar to penicillin in its mode of action.
Can I take Cefrek if I have a penicillin allergy?
Yes, you can take Cefrek if you have a penicillin allergy. Cefrek is a type of cephalosporin antibiotic which is not related to penicillin.