Cefpodoxime Proxetil + Clavulanic Acid

Indications
It is indicated in the following infections -
Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
Acute community acquired pneumonia
Pharyngitis or tonsillitis
Skin and soft tissue infections
Urinary tract infections
Uncomplicated gonorrhea
Acute maxillary sinusitis

Therapeutic Class
Third generation Cephalosporins

Pharmacology
Cefpodoxime is a third generation semi-synthetic Cephalosporin, exhibits activity against several Gram positive as well as Gram negative microorganisms. This compound is also stable in beta lactamase environment. Cefpodoxime exhibits exceptional activity against methicillin susceptible Staphylococci, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria spp. and Moraxella catarrhalis.
Clavulanic acid is a natural inhibitor of beta lactamase which are produced by Streptomyces clavuligerus. It binds to beta lactamase moieties and inactivates them, thus restricting the Cefpodoxime destruction.

Dosage & Administration
For adults (Age 12 years and older):
Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis: 1 tablet 12 hourly for 10 days
Acute community acquired pneumonia: 1 tablet 12 hourly for 14 days
Pharyngitis or tonsillitis: ½ tablet 12 hourly for 5 to 10 days
Skin and soft tissue infections: 2 tablet 12 hourly for 7 to 14 days
Urinary tract infections: ½ tablet 12 hourly for 7 days
Uncomplicated gonorrhea: Single dose
Acute maxillary sinusitis: 1 tablet 12 hourly for 10 days
For children: Children 2 months to 12 years- 10 mg/kg/day in divided dose, every 12 hours.

Interaction
Concomitant administration of Cefpodoxime at high doses with antacids or H2 blockers reduces peak plasma levels of Cefpodoxime.

Contraindications
Cefpodoxime is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Cephalosporins.

Side Effects
Cefpodoxime is well tolerated. Most common gastrointestinal adverse effects are diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

Pregnancy & Lactation
US FDA pregnancy category of Cefpodoxime & Clavulanic Acid is B. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cefpodoxime have been shown to be excreted in human milk. So, caution should be exercised when Cefpodoxime is administered to a nursing woman.

Precautions & Warnings
Cefpodoxime should be administered with caution to patients receiving concurrent treatment with diuretics.

Storage Conditions
Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.