Description
Indications
Suprax is a prescription medicine used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, including:
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections
- Otitis media (middle ear infection)
- Pharyngitis and tonsillitis (inflammation of the throat and tonsils)
- Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
- Uncomplicated gonorrhea (cervical urethral)
Categorized as a cephalosporin antibiotic, Suprax works by halting bacterial growth.
This antibiotic exclusively addresses bacterial infections and is ineffective against viral infections like the common cold or flu. Inappropriate antibiotic use can compromise its effectiveness for future infections.
Uses and Dosage
Before taking Suprax and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for any queries or concerns.
The dosage of Suprax is determined based on the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment. In children, weight is also considered.
This antibiotic may be prescribed to be taken every 12 or 24 hours without regard to food intake.
To optimize its effectiveness, adhere to a consistent schedule by taking this antibiotic at evenly spaced intervals, preferably at the same time(s) daily.
Complete the full prescribed course of Suprax, even if symptoms improve before finishing. Prematurely discontinuing the medication may lead to bacterial growth and a recurrence of the infection.
Notify your doctor promptly if your condition persists or exacerbates.
Side Effects
Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Suprax. Tell your doctor promptly if any of them last or worsen.
Common Side Effects
- Indigestion, stomach pain
- Nausea, vomiting
- Vaginal itching or discharge
Serious Side Effects
- Severe stomach pain, watery or bloody diarrhea
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
- Pale or yellowed skin, dark urine, confusion, weakness
- Seizures (convulsions)
- Low blood cell counts:
- Weakness
- Fever
- Swollen gums
- Rapid heart rate
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Lightheadedness
- Signs of kidney problems:
- Reduced urination
- Painful urination
- Swelling in feet/ankles
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Serious skin reaction:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Face/tongue swelling
- Eye burning
- Red/purple rash with blistering and peeling
Call your doctor if any of the serious side effects above are experienced.
Allergic Reactions
Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Suprax may occur. Seek immediate medical attention in case of any signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- Hives
- Swelling of the face, lip, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
Not all side effects of Suprax are included in this list. Inform your doctor if any unlisted effects occur.
Cautions
Before starting treatment with Suprax, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to:
- Cefixime
- Penicillin
- Other cephalosporin antibiotics (e.g., cephalexin)
- Other medicines
Consult your pharmacist for more information about Suprax, as it may contain inactive ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
To ensure Suprax is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of kidney disease or colitis (intestinal disease).
Some products may interact with Suprax, including blood thinners like warfarin. To minimize the risks of such drug interactions, tell all your healthcare providers of any current or recently started or stopped medications, including prescription/nonprescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Antibiotics like Suprax can induce diarrhea, potentially indicating a fresh infection. Notify your doctor if you experience watery or bloody diarrhea, and refrain from using anti-diarrhea medication unless specifically advised by your doctor.
Ensure laboratory staff and your medical practitioners are aware of your Suprax usage, as it could disrupt specific lab tests (like diabetic urine tests), potentially leading to inaccurate outcomes.
Suprax might impair the efficacy of live bacterial vaccines, like the typhoid vaccine. Inform your healthcare provider about your Suprax usage before receiving any immunizations or vaccinations.
Suprax should only be taken if necessary during pregnancy. Consult your doctor to evaluate the potential risks and benefits.
The potential transfer of cefixime into breast milk and its impact on breastfeeding infants remain uncertain. Inform your healthcare provider if you are currently nursing; it may be necessary to discontinue breastfeeding while taking Suprax.