Refspan
Refspan Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Refspan is a brand name. Its generic name is Cefixime.
Introduction
Refspan 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
Refspan 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
Refspan 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?
Refspan 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
Refspan 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
Refspan 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
Refspan 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
Refspan 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
Refspan 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
Refspan 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
Refspan should be taken with food. Taking it on an empty stomach can decrease its absorption and potentially make it less effective.
Pregnancy Use
Refspan 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
Refspan 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
Refspan 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
Refspan should be taken as directed by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than directed.
Storage Condition
Refspan 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 Refspan
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Refspan
What is Refspan?
Refspan 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 Refspan to work?
The effects of Refspan 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 Refspan?
Refspan 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 Refspan safe to take while pregnant?
It is generally considered safe to take Refspan 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 Refspan?
Common side effects of Refspan 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 Refspan?
You should avoid alcohol and other medications with alcohol while taking Refspan as they can increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, you should avoid taking other antibiotics while taking Refspan as this can decrease the efficacy of the medication.
Can Refspan be used to treat a UTI?
Yes, Refspan 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 Refspan safe for children?
Although Refspan is FDA approved for use in adults, the safety and efficacy of Refspan in children has not been established. Therefore, it is important to speak to your doctor before giving Refspan to a child.
Is Refspan resistant to penicillin?
No, Refspan 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 Refspan with other medications?
Yes, you can take Refspan with other medications, but it is important to inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking. Additionally, do not take Refspan with any other antibiotics.
What if I miss a dose of Refspan?
If you miss a dose of Refspan, 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 Refspan while breastfeeding?
Yes, Refspan 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 Refspan an antibiotic?
Yes, Refspan is an antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections.
Can Refspan be used to treat pneumonia?
Yes, Refspan 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 Refspan treat?
Refspan 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 Refspan safe for dogs?
Refspan 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 Refspan with milk?
Yes, it is safe to take Refspan 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 Refspan?
Refspan 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 Refspan?
The recommended dosage of Refspan 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 Refspan a sulfa drug?
No, Refspan is not a sulfa drug. Sulfa drugs are sulfonamide antibiotics which contain a sulfonamide group, while Refspan is a cephalosporin antibiotic.
Can Refspan be used to treat gonorrhea?
Yes, Refspan 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 Refspan?
If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction to Refspan such as difficulty breathing, rash, itching, or swelling, contact your doctor or seek medical help immediately.
Can I take Refspan with food?
Yes, it is safe to take Refspan 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 Refspan be used to treat a sinus infection?
Yes, Refspan 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 Refspan have any drug interactions?
Yes, Refspan 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 Refspan cause diarrhea?
Yes, Refspan can cause diarrhea as a side effect. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor.
How long does Refspan stay in your system?
Refspan 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 Refspan?
The usual course of treatment for Refspan 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 Refspan a penicillin?
No, Refspan is not a penicillin. It is a type of cephalosporin antibiotic, which is similar to penicillin in its mode of action.
Can I take Refspan if I have a penicillin allergy?
Yes, you can take Refspan if you have a penicillin allergy. Refspan is a type of cephalosporin antibiotic which is not related to penicillin.