Caricef (Cefixime) 200mg Tablets

Caricef contains cefixime, a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic effective against various bacterial infections. Available as 200mg tablets, it treats respiratory, urinary tract infections, and uncomplicated gonorrhea by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.

Uses of Caricef 200mg Tablets

Caricef 200mg tablets are prescribed for:

• Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) including otitis media
• Lower respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis
• Urinary tract infections including cystitis and uncomplicated pyelonephritis
• Uncomplicated gonorrhea (cervical/urethral)

Dosage Information

For Adults:

• Standard dose: 400mg daily (can be taken as one 400mg dose or two 200mg doses 12 hours apart)
• For gonorrhea: Single 400mg dose
• Treatment duration: Usually 7 days, may extend to 14 days if required
• For Streptococcus pyogenes infections: Minimum 10-day treatment

For Children:

• Not recommended for children under 10 years old (suspension form preferred)
• Children over 12 years or weighing more than 50kg: Adult dosage

Special Populations:

• Elderly: Same as adult dose with renal function monitoring
• Renal impairment (creatinine clearance <20ml/min): 200mg once daily maximum

Administration

• Can be taken with or without food
• Absorption is not significantly affected by food intake

Price in Pakistan

Caricef 200mg tablets are available in packs of 10 tablets (manufactured by SAMI Pharmaceuticals). Price of Caricef 200mg tablet in Pakistan is 599.71/- but it may vary based on location and pharmacy.

Precautions and Warnings

• Contraindicated in patients allergic to cefixime or other cephalosporins
• Use with caution in patients with penicillin allergy (cross-sensitivity possible)
• May cause severe cutaneous reactions (SCARS, Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
• Risk of encephalopathy, especially with renal impairment or overdose
• May cause antibiotic-associated colitis

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
• Central nervous system: Headache, dizziness
• Allergic reactions: Rash, pruritus
• Laboratory abnormalities: Elevated liver enzymes

Severe side effects requiring immediate medical attention include severe skin reactions, anaphylaxis, and persistent severe diarrhea.

Storage Conditions

• Store below 30°C
• Protect from heat, light, and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children

Note: Only to be used under prescription of a registered medical practitioner.