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Azithromycin is acid-stable and can therefore be taken orally with no need of protection from gastric acids. It is readily absorbed; its absorption is greater on an empty stomach. Time to peak concentration in adults is 2.1 to 3.2 hours for oral dosage forms. Due to the high concentration in phagocytes, azithromycin is actively transported to the site of infection. During active phagocytosis, large concentrations of azithromycin are released. The concentration of azithromycin in the tissues can be over 50 times higher than in plasma. This is due to ion trapping and the high lipid solubility.

Azithromycin's half-life allows a large single dose to be administered and yet maintain bacteriostatic levels in the infected tissue for several days. Following a single 500 mg dose, plasma concentrations of azithromycin declined in a polyphasic pattern with a mean apparent plasma clearance of 630 mL/min and a terminal elimination half life of 68 hours. The prolonged terminal half-life is thought to be due to extensive uptake and subsequent release of drug from tissues. Biliary excretion of azithromycin, predominantly unchanged, is a major route of elimination. Over the course of a week, approximately 6% of the administered dose appears as unchanged drug in urine.

Microbiology: Azithromycin acts by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms and, thus, interfering with microbial protein synthesis. Nucleic acid synthesis is not affected. Azithromycin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections:

• Aerobic and facultative gram-positive microorganisms: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes
• Aerobic and facultative gram-negative microorganisms: Haemophilus ducreyi, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae
• Other microorganisms: Chlamydia pneumoniae, Chlamydia trachomatis , Mycoplasma pneumoniae , Betalactamase production should have no effect on azithromycin activity.
• Aerobic and facultative gram-positive microorganisms: Streptococci (Groups C,F,G), Viridans group streptococci
• Aerobic and facultative gram-negative microorganisms: Bordetella pertussis, Legionella pneumophila
• Anaerobic microorganisms: Peptostreptococcus species, Prevotella bivia

Oral-
Adult: 500 mg once daily orally for 3 days or 500 mg once on day 1, then 250 mg once on days 2-5 for 4 days. For sexually transmitted diseases caused by Chlamydia trachomatis in adults, the dose is 1 gm given as a single dose or 500 mg once on day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily for next 2 days may also be given.

Children:

• 10 mg/kg body weight once daily for 3 days for child over 6 months
• 200 mg (1 teaspoonful) for 3 days if body weight is 15-25 kg
• 300 mg (1½ teaspoonfuls) for 3 days if body weight is 26-35 kg; 400 mg (2 teaspoonfuls) for 3 days if body weight is 36-45 kg.
• In typhoid fever, 500 mg (2½ teaspoonfuls) once daily for 7-10 days is given.

Azithromycin Injection (For IV Infusion only): The recommended dose of Azithromycin for injection for the treatment of adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia due to the indicated organisms is:

• 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for at least two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by Azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 500 mg, administered as two 250-mg tablets to complete a 7 to 10-day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response.
• The recommended dose of Azithromycin for the treatment of adult patients with pelvic inflammatory disease due to the indicated organisms is: 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for one or two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by Azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 250 mg to complete a 7-day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response. If anaerobic microorganisms are suspected of contributing to the infection, an antimicrobial agent with anaerobic activity should be administered in combination with Azithromycin.
• Safety and effectiveness of azithromycin for injection in children or adolescents under 16 years have not been established.

Reconstitution procedure of suspension-

• Step 01: Shake the bottle well to loosen the powder.
• Step 02: Add boiled and cooled water up to the water mark of the bottle label.
• Step 03: Shake until powder is completely mixed with water.

Azithromycin should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meal.

Azithromycin is well tolerated with a low incidence of side effects. The side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort (pain/cramps), flatulence, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness, and skin rashes and are reversible upon discontinuation of therapy.

Azithromycin is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to Azithromycin or any other macrolide antibiotic. Co-administration of ergot derivatives and Azithromycin is contraindicated. Azithromycin is contraindicated in patients with hepatic diseases.

As with any antibiotic, observation for signs of superinfection with non-susceptible organisms, including fungi, is recommended. No dose adjustment is needed in patients with renal impairment.

Azithromycin absorption is reduced in presence of food and antacid. In patients receiving ergot alkaloids Azithromycin should be avoided because of the possibility of ergotism resulting from interaction of Azithromycin with the cytochrome P-450 system. As macrolides increase the plasma concentration of digoxin and cyclosporin, caution should be exercised while co-administration. There have been no drug interactions between Azithromycin and Warfarin, Theophylline, Carbamazepine, Methylprednisolone or Cimetidine.

Pregnancy Category of Azithromycin is B. Animal reproduction studies have demonstrated that Azithromycin has no evidence of harm to the fetus. There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Since animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, Azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if adequate alternatives are not available. It is not known whether Azithromycin is secreted in breast milk. So, caution should be exercised when Azithromycin is administered to nursing women.

There is no data on overdosage with Azithromycin. Typical symptoms of overdosage with macrolide antibiotics include hearing loss, severe nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Gastric lavage and general supportive measures are indicated.

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

Permethrin cream is indicated for the treatment of scabies and crab lice infestations (Pediculosis). Scabies can affect everyone in the family. If one is infected, all family members must be treated together.

Parasiticidal preparations

Permethrin cream contains Permethrin, a pyrethroid, which is a topical scabicidal agent for the treatment of infestation with Sarcoptes Scabiei (scabies). It acts on the nerve cell membrane to disrupt the sodium channel current by which the polarization of the membrane is regulated. Delayed repolarization & paralysis of the pests are the consequences of this disturbance.

Pharmacokinetics: The only approved route of administration is the topical route and there are few human data available on systemic exposure or kinetics following permethrin application to the skin. Some presystemic metabolism occurs in skin. Less than 0.5% of applied permethrin is absorbed during the first 48 hours. Absorbed permethrin is rapidly metabolized by ester hydrolysis, most likely in the liver and the products are excreted primarily in the urine.

Recommended duration of Treatment:

• Adults and children over 12 years: a full tube
• Children aged 6-12 years: up to 1⁄2 of a tube
• Children aged 1-5 years: up to  ¼ of a tube
• Children aged 2 months to 1 year: up to ⅛ of a tube
• Children Less then 2 month: dose is not established

Before application of Permethrin cream the skin should be clean, cool and dry. Do not have a hot shower or bath before applying.

For adults and children over 2 years: Apply the cream to the whole body from the neck down, rubbing lightly into the skin until the cream disappears. It is important to include all skin surfaces, such as between the fingers and toes, under the nails and on the soles of the feet.

For babies under 2 years: Apply to the face, neck, ears and scalp as well, only avoiding the area immediately around the eyes and mouth.

Leave cream on for at least 8 hours, before washing off. Reapply to any area that may be washed during the 8h treatment time (such as after washing the hands). If necessary, permethrin cream should be used again after 7 days as per the advice of the doctor.

In Scabies patients, skin discomfort, usually described as burning, stinging or tingling occurs in a few individuals soon after the cream is applied. Others transient signs and symptoms of irritation including enythema, edema, eczema, rash and puritis.

Permethrin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of pyrethroids or permethrin. Nursing staff who routinely apply permethrin may wear globes to avoid any possible irritation to the hands.

Scabies infestation is often accompanied by pruritus, edema & erythema. Treatment with permethrin may temporarily exacerbate these conditions. Patients should be advised to avoid contact with eyes during application & to flash with water immediately if the cream gets in the eyes.

The treatment of eczemodous like reactions with corticosteroids should be withheld prior to treatment with permethrin, as there is a risk of exacerbating the scabies infestation by reducing the immune response to the mite.

In the absence of specific studies in pregnant women, its use in pregnancy should only follow medical advice. It is not known whether permethrin is excreted in human milk so it should not be used in nursing mothers.

Store in a cool, dry place, away from light & keep out of the reach of children...

Anti-diarrhoeal Antimicrobial drugs, Macrolides

Erythromycin inhibits microsomal protein synthesis in susceptible organisms by inhibiting the translocation process. Specific binding to the 50S subunit or 70S ribosome occurs in these organisms but there is no binding to the stable 80S mammalian ribosome. Erythromycin is active against many Grampositive bacteria, some Gram-negative bacteria and against mycoplasmas and chlamydia.

Absorption: Erythromycin base is destroyed by acid and is therefore administered in the form of stable ester. The rates of absorption of the base and esters are diminished by the presence of food. The stearate is hydrolyzed in the intestine and the free erythromycin absorbed.

Blood concentration: After an oral dose of 500 mg. of the base of stearate, peak serum concentrations of 0.9 to 1.4 or 0.4 to 1.8 mg/ml. respectively are attained in 1 to 4 hours. Half-life: The serum half-life is 1.2 to 4 hours. In subjects with oliguria, the half-life is about 5 hours.

Distribution: Erythromycin is widely distributed throughout body tissue and fluids with some retention in the liver and spleen, protein binding of erythromycin base is 73%. Erythromycin enters the cerebrospinal fluid when the meninges are inflamed. It also crosses the placenta and is excreted in the milk.

Excretion: 5 to 15 % of the dose of erythromycin is excreted in the urine and large amounts of the unchanged active substance are excreted in the bile.

Adult and Children over 8 years: 250-500 mg every six hours for mild to moderate infections. This may be increased upto 4 gm. or more daily in severe cases.

Elderly: No special dosage recommendation. Erythromycin may be administered if desired, three times daily or twice daily by giving one-third or half of the total daily requirement 8 hourly or 12 hourly respectively.

Children aged 2 to 8 years: 250 mg. every six hours or 30-50 mg/kg body weight per day divided into four equal dosage.

Infants and Children upto 2 years: 500 mg. in divided doses or 30-50 mg/kg body weight in divided doses.

Allergic reactions are rare and mild although anaphylaxis has occurred. Occasionally there is abdominal discomfort after oral administration, sometimes with nausea and vomiting. This discomfort usually subsides after a few days without it being necessary to reduce the dosage.

Known hypersensitivity to Erythromycin.

Erythromycin should be given with care in patients with impaired hepatic function, as erythromycin is excreted principally in the bile.

Recent data from studies of erythromycin reveals that its use in patients who are receiving high dosage of theophylline may be associated with an increase of serum theophylline levels and potential theophylline toxicity. In such cases this dose of theophylline should be reduced.

Clinical and Laboratory studies have been shown no evidence in human of teratogenicity or toxicity. However, caution should be exercised when prescribing this drug to pregnant patients and lactating mothers since erythromycin crosses the placental barrier and is excreted in breast milk.

In case of overdosage, Erythromycin should be discontinued. Overdosage should be handled with the prompt elimination of unabsorbed drug and all other appropriate measures should be instituted. Erythromycin is not removed by peritoneal dialysis or haemodialysis.

Direction for reconstitution of suspension: Shake the bottle to loosen powder. Add 60 ml or 100 ml of boiled and cooled water to the dry powder of the bottle. For ease of preparation, add water to the bottle in two proportions. Shake well after each addition until all the powder is in suspension.

Shake the suspension well before each use. Keep the bottle tightly closed. The reconstituted suspension should be stored in a cool and dry place, preferably in refrigerator and unused portion should be discarded after 7 days.

Keep below 25°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Other Anti-anginal & Anti-ischaemic drugs, Statins

Atorvastatin is a selective inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme is the rate-limiting enzyme responsible for the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate, a precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. Atorvastatin lowers plasma cholesterol and lipoprotein levels by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase and cholesterol synthesis in the liver and increases the number of hepatic LDL receptors on the cell surface for enhanced uptake and catabolism of LDL.

Primary hypercholesterolaemia and combined hyperlipidaemia-

• Adults: Usually 10 mg once daily; if necessary, may be increased at intervals of at least 4 weeks to max. 80 mg once daily.
• Child (10-18 years): Initially 10 mg once daily, increased if necessary at intervals of at least 4 weeks to usual max. 20 mg once daily.

Familial hypercholesterolaemia-

• Adults: Initially 10 mg daily, increased at intervals of at least 4 weeks to 40 mg once daily; if necessary, further increased to max. 80 mg once daily (or 40 mg once daily combined with anion-exchange resin in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia).
• Child (10-18 years): Initially 10 mg once daily, increased if necessary at intervals of at least 4 weeks to usual max. 80 mg once daily.

Prevention of cardiovascular events-

• Adults: Initially 10 mg once daily adjusted according to response.

Atorvastatin is generally well-tolerated. The most frequent side effects related to Atorvastatin are constipation, flatulence, dyspepsia, abdominal pain. Other side effects includes infection, headache, back pain, rash, asthenia, arthralgia, myalgia.

Atorvastatin should not be used in patient with hypersensitivity to any component of this medication. Atorvastatin is contraindicated in active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases. It is also contraindicated in patient with history of serious adverse reaction to prior administration of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.

Liver effects: Liver function tests should be performed before the initiation of treatment and periodically thereafter. Atorvastatin should be used with caution in patients who consume substantial quantities of alcohol or have a history of liver disease. Atorvastatin therapy should be discontinued if markedly elevated CPK levels occur or myopathy is diagnosed or suspected.

The risk of myopathy during treatment with Atorvastatin is increased with concurrent administration of cyclosporin, fibric acid derivatives, erythromycin, azole antifungals and niacin. No clinically significant interactions were seen when Atorvastatin was administered with antihypertensives or hypoglycemic agents. Patients should be closely monitored if Atorvastatin is added to digoxin, erythromycin, oral contraceptives, colestipol, antacid and warfarin.

Pregnancy: Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy. Safety in pregnant women has not been established. No controlled clinical trials with atorvastatin have been conducted in pregnant women. Rare reports of congenital anomalies following intrauterine exposure to HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors have been received. Animal studies have shown toxicity to reproduction. Maternal treatment with atorvastatin may reduce the fetal levels of mevalonate which is a precursor of cholesterol biosynthesis. Atorvastatin should not be used in women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or suspect they are pregnant. Treatment with atorvastatin should be suspended for the duration of pregnancy or until it has been determined that the woman is not pregnant

Lactation: It is not known whether atorvastatin or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. In rats, plasma concentrations of atorvastatin and its active metabolites are similar to those in milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions, women taking atorvastatin should not breastfeed their infants. Atorvastatin is contraindicated during breastfeeding.

Hepatic impairment: Atorvastatin should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment.

Pediatric use: For patients aged 10 years and above, the recommended starting dose of atorvastatin is 10 mg per day with titration up to 20 mg per day. Atorvastatin is not indicated in the treatment of patients below the age of 10 years.

Specific treatment is not available for atorvastatin overdose. The patient should be treated symptomatically and supportive measures instituted, as required. Liver function tests should be performed and serum CK levels should be monitored. Due to extensive atorvastatin binding to plasma proteins, hemodialysis is not expected to significantly enhance atorvastatin clearance.

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

Other Anti-anginal & Anti-ischaemic drugs, Statins

Atorvastatin is a selective inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme is the rate-limiting enzyme responsible for the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate, a precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. Atorvastatin lowers plasma cholesterol and lipoprotein levels by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase and cholesterol synthesis in the liver and increases the number of hepatic LDL receptors on the cell surface for enhanced uptake and catabolism of LDL.

Primary hypercholesterolaemia and combined hyperlipidaemia-

• Adults: Usually 10 mg once daily; if necessary, may be increased at intervals of at least 4 weeks to max. 80 mg once daily.
• Child (10-18 years): Initially 10 mg once daily, increased if necessary at intervals of at least 4 weeks to usual max. 20 mg once daily.

Familial hypercholesterolaemia-

• Adults: Initially 10 mg daily, increased at intervals of at least 4 weeks to 40 mg once daily; if necessary, further increased to max. 80 mg once daily (or 40 mg once daily combined with anion-exchange resin in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia).
• Child (10-18 years): Initially 10 mg once daily, increased if necessary at intervals of at least 4 weeks to usual max. 80 mg once daily.

Prevention of cardiovascular events-

• Adults: Initially 10 mg once daily adjusted according to response.

Atorvastatin is generally well-tolerated. The most frequent side effects related to Atorvastatin are constipation, flatulence, dyspepsia, abdominal pain. Other side effects includes infection, headache, back pain, rash, asthenia, arthralgia, myalgia.

Atorvastatin should not be used in patient with hypersensitivity to any component of this medication. Atorvastatin is contraindicated in active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases. It is also contraindicated in patient with history of serious adverse reaction to prior administration of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.

Liver effects: Liver function tests should be performed before the initiation of treatment and periodically thereafter. Atorvastatin should be used with caution in patients who consume substantial quantities of alcohol or have a history of liver disease. Atorvastatin therapy should be discontinued if markedly elevated CPK levels occur or myopathy is diagnosed or suspected.

The risk of myopathy during treatment with Atorvastatin is increased with concurrent administration of cyclosporin, fibric acid derivatives, erythromycin, azole antifungals and niacin. No clinically significant interactions were seen when Atorvastatin was administered with antihypertensives or hypoglycemic agents. Patients should be closely monitored if Atorvastatin is added to digoxin, erythromycin, oral contraceptives, colestipol, antacid and warfarin.

Pregnancy: Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy. Safety in pregnant women has not been established. No controlled clinical trials with atorvastatin have been conducted in pregnant women. Rare reports of congenital anomalies following intrauterine exposure to HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors have been received. Animal studies have shown toxicity to reproduction. Maternal treatment with atorvastatin may reduce the fetal levels of mevalonate which is a precursor of cholesterol biosynthesis. Atorvastatin should not be used in women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or suspect they are pregnant. Treatment with atorvastatin should be suspended for the duration of pregnancy or until it has been determined that the woman is not pregnant

Lactation: It is not known whether atorvastatin or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. In rats, plasma concentrations of atorvastatin and its active metabolites are similar to those in milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions, women taking atorvastatin should not breastfeed their infants. Atorvastatin is contraindicated during breastfeeding.

Hepatic impairment: Atorvastatin should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment.

Pediatric use: For patients aged 10 years and above, the recommended starting dose of atorvastatin is 10 mg per day with titration up to 20 mg per day. Atorvastatin is not indicated in the treatment of patients below the age of 10 years.

Specific treatment is not available for atorvastatin overdose. The patient should be treated symptomatically and supportive measures instituted, as required. Liver function tests should be performed and serum CK levels should be monitored. Due to extensive atorvastatin binding to plasma proteins, hemodialysis is not expected to significantly enhance atorvastatin clearance.

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

Bupropion Hydrochloride is indicated in the treatment of depression. Bupropion is also indicated in smoking cessation.

Atypical anti-depressant drugs

Bupropion is a selective inhibitor of the neuronal re-uptake of catecholamines (noradrenaline and dopamine) with minimal effect on the re-uptake of indolamines (serotonin) and does not inhibit monoamine oxidase. While the mechanism of action of bupropion, as with other antidepressants is unknown, it is presumed that this action is mediated by noradrenergic and/or dopaminergic mechanisms.

The usual adult target dose for Bupropion is 300 mg/day, given as 150 mg, twice daily. Dosing should begin at 150 mg/day given as a single daily dose in the morning. If the 150 mg initial dose is adequately tolerated, an increase to the 300 mg/day target dose, given as 150 mg twice daily, may be made as early as day 4 of dosing. There should be an interval of at least 8 hours between successive doses.

Increasing the dosage above 300 mg/day: As with other antidepressants, the full antidepressant effect of Bupropion Hydrochloride may not be evident until 4 weeks of treatment or longer. An increase in dosage to the maximum of 400 mg/day, given as 200 mg twice daily, may be considered for patients in whom no clinical improvement is noted after several weeks of treatment at 300 mg/day. Bupropion Hydrochloride should be discontinued in patients who do not demonstrate an adequate response after an appropriate period of treatment at 450 mg/day.

Maintenance: The lowest dose that maintains remission is recommended. Although it is not known how long the patient should remain on Bupropion Hydrochloride, it is generally recognised that acute episodes of depression require several months or longer of antidepressant drug treatment.

Child and adolescent: Not recommended for child and adolescent under 18 years of age.

Agitation, anxiety, and insomnia often occur during the initial stages of Bupropion therapy. Other relatively common side effects reported with Bupropion include fever, dry mouth, headache or migraine, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, constipation, tremor, sweating, and skin rashes. Hypersensitivity reactions, ranging from pruritus and urticaria, less commonly, angio-oedema, dyspnoea, and anaphylactoid reactions have been reported.

It is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion Hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients treated with other medications that contain Bupropion because the incidence of seizure is dose dependent. Bupropion may induce seizure and consequently its use is contraindicated in patients with epilepsy. The drug is also contraindicated in patients with a current or prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa because of a higher incidence of seizures noted in such patients treated for bulimia with Bupropion Hydrochloride. The concurrent administration of Bupropion Hydrochloride and a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor is contraindicated. At least 14 days should elapse between discontinuation of MAO inhibitor and initiation of treatment with Bupropion Hydrochloride. Bupropion Hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients who have shown an allergic response to Bupropion or the other ingredients that make up Bupropion Hydrochloride.

It should be used with extreme caution, in patients with history of seizure disorders or in patients with other predisposing factors such as severe hepatic cirrhosis or a CNS tumour, and in those undergoing abrupt withdrawal from alcohol or Benzodiazepines. The use of Bupropion in patients with other risk factors for seizures (for example, alcohol abuse, a history of head trauma, diabetes, and drugs known to lower the seizure threshold) should only be undertaken when there are compelling clinical reasons. Bupropion should be used with caution in patients with bipolar depression or psychoses and in patients with a recent history of myocardial infarction or unstable heart disease and in hepatic or renal impairment.

Bupropion should not be given concurrently with or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI. The use of alcohol should be minimised or avoided completely because it may alter the seizure threshold. Similarly, other drugs that lower the seizure threshold, such as other antidepressants, antimalarials, antipsychotics, sedating antihistamines, Quinolones, Tramadol, Theophylline, or systemic corticosteroids, should be used with extreme caution together with Bupropion. Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, or Phenytoin may induce the metabolism of Bupropion while other drugs such as Cimetidine or Ritonavir may inhibit its metabolism. Interaction may occur between Bupropion and Orphenadrine, Cyclophosphamide, and Ifosfamide. Caution should be exercised when it is given with drugs such as some antidepressants, antipsychotics, β blockers, and type 1C antiarrhythmics.

Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Bupropion and its metabolites are secreted in human milk. Because Bupropion is excreted in human milk, a decision should be made whether to discontinue breast feeding or to discontinue the drug.

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Azithromycin is acid-stable and can therefore be taken orally with no need of protection from gastric acids. It is readily absorbed; its absorption is greater on an empty stomach. Time to peak concentration in adults is 2.1 to 3.2 hours for oral dosage forms. Due to the high concentration in phagocytes, azithromycin is actively transported to the site of infection. During active phagocytosis, large concentrations of azithromycin are released. The concentration of azithromycin in the tissues can be over 50 times higher than in plasma. This is due to ion trapping and the high lipid solubility.

Azithromycin's half-life allows a large single dose to be administered and yet maintain bacteriostatic levels in the infected tissue for several days. Following a single 500 mg dose, plasma concentrations of azithromycin declined in a polyphasic pattern with a mean apparent plasma clearance of 630 mL/min and a terminal elimination half life of 68 hours. The prolonged terminal half-life is thought to be due to extensive uptake and subsequent release of drug from tissues. Biliary excretion of azithromycin, predominantly unchanged, is a major route of elimination. Over the course of a week, approximately 6% of the administered dose appears as unchanged drug in urine.

Microbiology: Azithromycin acts by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms and, thus, interfering with microbial protein synthesis. Nucleic acid synthesis is not affected. Azithromycin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections:

• Aerobic and facultative gram-positive microorganisms: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes
• Aerobic and facultative gram-negative microorganisms: Haemophilus ducreyi, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae
• Other microorganisms: Chlamydia pneumoniae, Chlamydia trachomatis , Mycoplasma pneumoniae , Betalactamase production should have no effect on azithromycin activity.
• Aerobic and facultative gram-positive microorganisms: Streptococci (Groups C,F,G), Viridans group streptococci
• Aerobic and facultative gram-negative microorganisms: Bordetella pertussis, Legionella pneumophila
• Anaerobic microorganisms: Peptostreptococcus species, Prevotella bivia

Oral-
Adult: 500 mg once daily orally for 3 days or 500 mg once on day 1, then 250 mg once on days 2-5 for 4 days. For sexually transmitted diseases caused by Chlamydia trachomatis in adults, the dose is 1 gm given as a single dose or 500 mg once on day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily for next 2 days may also be given.

Children:

• 10 mg/kg body weight once daily for 3 days for child over 6 months
• 200 mg (1 teaspoonful) for 3 days if body weight is 15-25 kg
• 300 mg (1½ teaspoonfuls) for 3 days if body weight is 26-35 kg; 400 mg (2 teaspoonfuls) for 3 days if body weight is 36-45 kg.
• In typhoid fever, 500 mg (2½ teaspoonfuls) once daily for 7-10 days is given.

Azithromycin Injection (For IV Infusion only): The recommended dose of Azithromycin for injection for the treatment of adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia due to the indicated organisms is:

• 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for at least two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by Azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 500 mg, administered as two 250-mg tablets to complete a 7 to 10-day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response.
• The recommended dose of Azithromycin for the treatment of adult patients with pelvic inflammatory disease due to the indicated organisms is: 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for one or two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by Azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 250 mg to complete a 7-day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response. If anaerobic microorganisms are suspected of contributing to the infection, an antimicrobial agent with anaerobic activity should be administered in combination with Azithromycin.
• Safety and effectiveness of azithromycin for injection in children or adolescents under 16 years have not been established.

Reconstitution procedure of suspension-

• Step 01: Shake the bottle well to loosen the powder.
• Step 02: Add boiled and cooled water up to the water mark of the bottle label.
• Step 03: Shake until powder is completely mixed with water.

Azithromycin should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meal.

Azithromycin is well tolerated with a low incidence of side effects. The side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort (pain/cramps), flatulence, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness, and skin rashes and are reversible upon discontinuation of therapy.

Azithromycin is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to Azithromycin or any other macrolide antibiotic. Co-administration of ergot derivatives and Azithromycin is contraindicated. Azithromycin is contraindicated in patients with hepatic diseases.

As with any antibiotic, observation for signs of superinfection with non-susceptible organisms, including fungi, is recommended. No dose adjustment is needed in patients with renal impairment.

Azithromycin absorption is reduced in presence of food and antacid. In patients receiving ergot alkaloids Azithromycin should be avoided because of the possibility of ergotism resulting from interaction of Azithromycin with the cytochrome P-450 system. As macrolides increase the plasma concentration of digoxin and cyclosporin, caution should be exercised while co-administration. There have been no drug interactions between Azithromycin and Warfarin, Theophylline, Carbamazepine, Methylprednisolone or Cimetidine.

Pregnancy Category of Azithromycin is B. Animal reproduction studies have demonstrated that Azithromycin has no evidence of harm to the fetus. There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Since animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, Azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if adequate alternatives are not available. It is not known whether Azithromycin is secreted in breast milk. So, caution should be exercised when Azithromycin is administered to nursing women.

There is no data on overdosage with Azithromycin. Typical symptoms of overdosage with macrolide antibiotics include hearing loss, severe nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Gastric lavage and general supportive measures are indicated.

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

Azithromycin is acid-stable and can therefore be taken orally with no need of protection from gastric acids. It is readily absorbed; its absorption is greater on an empty stomach. Time to peak concentration in adults is 2.1 to 3.2 hours for oral dosage forms. Due to the high concentration in phagocytes, azithromycin is actively transported to the site of infection. During active phagocytosis, large concentrations of azithromycin are released. The concentration of azithromycin in the tissues can be over 50 times higher than in plasma. This is due to ion trapping and the high lipid solubility.

Azithromycin's half-life allows a large single dose to be administered and yet maintain bacteriostatic levels in the infected tissue for several days. Following a single 500 mg dose, plasma concentrations of azithromycin declined in a polyphasic pattern with a mean apparent plasma clearance of 630 mL/min and a terminal elimination half life of 68 hours. The prolonged terminal half-life is thought to be due to extensive uptake and subsequent release of drug from tissues. Biliary excretion of azithromycin, predominantly unchanged, is a major route of elimination. Over the course of a week, approximately 6% of the administered dose appears as unchanged drug in urine.

Microbiology: Azithromycin acts by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms and, thus, interfering with microbial protein synthesis. Nucleic acid synthesis is not affected. Azithromycin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections:

• Aerobic and facultative gram-positive microorganisms: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes
• Aerobic and facultative gram-negative microorganisms: Haemophilus ducreyi, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae
• Other microorganisms: Chlamydia pneumoniae, Chlamydia trachomatis , Mycoplasma pneumoniae , Betalactamase production should have no effect on azithromycin activity.
• Aerobic and facultative gram-positive microorganisms: Streptococci (Groups C,F,G), Viridans group streptococci
• Aerobic and facultative gram-negative microorganisms: Bordetella pertussis, Legionella pneumophila
• Anaerobic microorganisms: Peptostreptococcus species, Prevotella bivia

Oral-
Adult: 500 mg once daily orally for 3 days or 500 mg once on day 1, then 250 mg once on days 2-5 for 4 days. For sexually transmitted diseases caused by Chlamydia trachomatis in adults, the dose is 1 gm given as a single dose or 500 mg once on day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily for next 2 days may also be given.

Children:

• 10 mg/kg body weight once daily for 3 days for child over 6 months
• 200 mg (1 teaspoonful) for 3 days if body weight is 15-25 kg
• 300 mg (1½ teaspoonfuls) for 3 days if body weight is 26-35 kg; 400 mg (2 teaspoonfuls) for 3 days if body weight is 36-45 kg.
• In typhoid fever, 500 mg (2½ teaspoonfuls) once daily for 7-10 days is given.

Azithromycin Injection (For IV Infusion only): The recommended dose of Azithromycin for injection for the treatment of adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia due to the indicated organisms is:

• 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for at least two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by Azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 500 mg, administered as two 250-mg tablets to complete a 7 to 10-day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response.
• The recommended dose of Azithromycin for the treatment of adult patients with pelvic inflammatory disease due to the indicated organisms is: 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for one or two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by Azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 250 mg to complete a 7-day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response. If anaerobic microorganisms are suspected of contributing to the infection, an antimicrobial agent with anaerobic activity should be administered in combination with Azithromycin.
• Safety and effectiveness of azithromycin for injection in children or adolescents under 16 years have not been established.

Reconstitution procedure of suspension-

• Step 01: Shake the bottle well to loosen the powder.
• Step 02: Add boiled and cooled water up to the water mark of the bottle label.
• Step 03: Shake until powder is completely mixed with water.

Azithromycin should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meal.

Azithromycin is well tolerated with a low incidence of side effects. The side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort (pain/cramps), flatulence, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness, and skin rashes and are reversible upon discontinuation of therapy.

Azithromycin is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to Azithromycin or any other macrolide antibiotic. Co-administration of ergot derivatives and Azithromycin is contraindicated. Azithromycin is contraindicated in patients with hepatic diseases.

As with any antibiotic, observation for signs of superinfection with non-susceptible organisms, including fungi, is recommended. No dose adjustment is needed in patients with renal impairment.

Azithromycin absorption is reduced in presence of food and antacid. In patients receiving ergot alkaloids Azithromycin should be avoided because of the possibility of ergotism resulting from interaction of Azithromycin with the cytochrome P-450 system. As macrolides increase the plasma concentration of digoxin and cyclosporin, caution should be exercised while co-administration. There have been no drug interactions between Azithromycin and Warfarin, Theophylline, Carbamazepine, Methylprednisolone or Cimetidine.

Pregnancy Category of Azithromycin is B. Animal reproduction studies have demonstrated that Azithromycin has no evidence of harm to the fetus. There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Since animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, Azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if adequate alternatives are not available. It is not known whether Azithromycin is secreted in breast milk. So, caution should be exercised when Azithromycin is administered to nursing women.

There is no data on overdosage with Azithromycin. Typical symptoms of overdosage with macrolide antibiotics include hearing loss, severe nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Gastric lavage and general supportive measures are indicated.

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

Tramadol is used for the treatment of moderate to severe painful conditions. These include:

• Postoperative pain
• Colic and spastic pain
• Cancer pain
• Joint pain
• Neck and back pain
• Pain associated with osteoporosis.

Opioid analgesics

Tramadol is a centrally acting synthetic analgesic compound. It inhibits the re uptake of neurotransmitters- serotonin and noradrenaline. Thus it modifies the transmission of pain impulses by activating both descending serotonergic pathways and noradrenergic pathways involved in analgesia. The analgesic effects of Tramadol are mediated via stimulation of mu-opioid receptors and indirect modulation of central monoaminergic inhibitory pathways.

Capsule or Tablet: Usual doses are 50 to 100 mg every four to six hours. For acute pain an initial dose of 100 mg is required. For chronic painful conditions an initial dose of 50 mg is recommended. Subsequent doses should be 50 to 100 mg administered 4-6 hourly. The dose level and frequency of dosing will depend on the severity of the pain.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Sustained Release Capsule or Tablet: One SR capsule or tablet every 12 hours, for example first one in the morning and then at the same time in the evening. The number of capsules taken at a time will depend upon severity of pain, but it should not be taken more frequently than every 12 hours.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Injection: A dose of 50-100 mg may be given every 4 to 6 hours by intramuscular or by intravenous infusion. For the treatment of postoperative pain,the initial dose is 100 mg followed by 50 mg every 10 to 20 minutes if necessary to a maximum of 250 mg in the first hour. Thereafter, doses are 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours up to a total daily dose of 600 mg.

Suppository: Tramadol suppository should be administered rectally. For adults usual dose is 100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride 6 hourly. In general, 400 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride (4 Tramadol suppository) per day sufficient. However, for the treatment of Cancer pain and severe pain after operations much higher daily doses can be used.

Commonly occurring side-effects are dizziness/vertigo, nausea, constipation, headache, somnolence, vomiting, pruritus, CNS stimulation, asthenia, sweating, dyspepsia, dry mouth, diarrhoea. Less commonly occurring side-effects include malaise, allergic reaction, weight loss, vasodilatation, palpitations, abdominal pain, anorexia, flatulence, GI bleeding, hepatitis, stomatitis etc.

Tramadol is contraindicated in persons having hypersensitivity to this drug. It is also contraindicated in acute intoxication with alcohol, hypnotics, centrally acting analgesics, opioids or psychotropic drugs.

Respiratory depression: When large doses of tramadol are administered with anaesthetic with anaesthetic medications or alcohol, respiratory depression may result. Therefore, tramadol should be administered cautiously in patients at risk for respiratory depression.

Opioid dependence: Tramadol is not recommended for patients who are dependent on opioids.

Concomitant CNS depressants: Tramadol should be used with caution and in reduced dosages when administering to patients receiving CNS depressants such as alcohol, opioids, anesthetic agents, phenothiazines, tranquilizers or sedative hypnotics.

Concomitant MAO inhibitors: Tramadol should be used with great caution in patients taking MAO inhibitors, since tramadol inhibits the uptake of norepinephrine and serotonin.

Tramadol should be used with caution in patients with increased intracranial pressure or head injury and patients with acute abdominal conditions.

In general, physician need not be concerned about drugs interacting with Tramadol. The monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors represent the only drug class not recommended for combination with Tramadol. Concomitant administration of carbamazepine with Tramadol causes a significant increase in Tramadol metabolism and it requires to increase the dose of Tramadol.

Safe use of Tramadol in pregnancy has not been established. Tramadol has been shown to cross the placenta. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, Tramadol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the foetus. Tramadol Hydrochloride should not be administered during breast feeding as Tramadol and its metabolites have been detected in breast milk.

In children from the age of 1 year Tramadol Hydrochloride can be given in a dose of 1-2 mg/kg body weight. However,suppository (100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride) should not be administered in children and adolescents below the age of 14 years. Tramadol Hydrochloride 100 mg SR Capsules have not been studied in children. Therefore, safety and efficacy have not been established and the product should not be used in children.

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Tramadol is used for the treatment of moderate to severe painful conditions. These include:

• Postoperative pain
• Colic and spastic pain
• Cancer pain
• Joint pain
• Neck and back pain
• Pain associated with osteoporosis.

Opioid analgesics

Tramadol is a centrally acting synthetic analgesic compound. It inhibits the re uptake of neurotransmitters- serotonin and noradrenaline. Thus it modifies the transmission of pain impulses by activating both descending serotonergic pathways and noradrenergic pathways involved in analgesia. The analgesic effects of Tramadol are mediated via stimulation of mu-opioid receptors and indirect modulation of central monoaminergic inhibitory pathways.

Capsule or Tablet: Usual doses are 50 to 100 mg every four to six hours. For acute pain an initial dose of 100 mg is required. For chronic painful conditions an initial dose of 50 mg is recommended. Subsequent doses should be 50 to 100 mg administered 4-6 hourly. The dose level and frequency of dosing will depend on the severity of the pain.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Sustained Release Capsule or Tablet: One SR capsule or tablet every 12 hours, for example first one in the morning and then at the same time in the evening. The number of capsules taken at a time will depend upon severity of pain, but it should not be taken more frequently than every 12 hours.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Injection: A dose of 50-100 mg may be given every 4 to 6 hours by intramuscular or by intravenous infusion. For the treatment of postoperative pain,the initial dose is 100 mg followed by 50 mg every 10 to 20 minutes if necessary to a maximum of 250 mg in the first hour. Thereafter, doses are 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours up to a total daily dose of 600 mg.

Suppository: Tramadol suppository should be administered rectally. For adults usual dose is 100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride 6 hourly. In general, 400 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride (4 Tramadol suppository) per day sufficient. However, for the treatment of Cancer pain and severe pain after operations much higher daily doses can be used.

Commonly occurring side-effects are dizziness/vertigo, nausea, constipation, headache, somnolence, vomiting, pruritus, CNS stimulation, asthenia, sweating, dyspepsia, dry mouth, diarrhoea. Less commonly occurring side-effects include malaise, allergic reaction, weight loss, vasodilatation, palpitations, abdominal pain, anorexia, flatulence, GI bleeding, hepatitis, stomatitis etc.

Tramadol is contraindicated in persons having hypersensitivity to this drug. It is also contraindicated in acute intoxication with alcohol, hypnotics, centrally acting analgesics, opioids or psychotropic drugs.

Respiratory depression: When large doses of tramadol are administered with anaesthetic with anaesthetic medications or alcohol, respiratory depression may result. Therefore, tramadol should be administered cautiously in patients at risk for respiratory depression.

Opioid dependence: Tramadol is not recommended for patients who are dependent on opioids.

Concomitant CNS depressants: Tramadol should be used with caution and in reduced dosages when administering to patients receiving CNS depressants such as alcohol, opioids, anesthetic agents, phenothiazines, tranquilizers or sedative hypnotics.

Concomitant MAO inhibitors: Tramadol should be used with great caution in patients taking MAO inhibitors, since tramadol inhibits the uptake of norepinephrine and serotonin.

Tramadol should be used with caution in patients with increased intracranial pressure or head injury and patients with acute abdominal conditions.

In general, physician need not be concerned about drugs interacting with Tramadol. The monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors represent the only drug class not recommended for combination with Tramadol. Concomitant administration of carbamazepine with Tramadol causes a significant increase in Tramadol metabolism and it requires to increase the dose of Tramadol.

Safe use of Tramadol in pregnancy has not been established. Tramadol has been shown to cross the placenta. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, Tramadol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the foetus. Tramadol Hydrochloride should not be administered during breast feeding as Tramadol and its metabolites have been detected in breast milk.

In children from the age of 1 year Tramadol Hydrochloride can be given in a dose of 1-2 mg/kg body weight. However,suppository (100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride) should not be administered in children and adolescents below the age of 14 years. Tramadol Hydrochloride 100 mg SR Capsules have not been studied in children. Therefore, safety and efficacy have not been established and the product should not be used in children.

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Tramadol is used for the treatment of moderate to severe painful conditions. These include:

• Postoperative pain
• Colic and spastic pain
• Cancer pain
• Joint pain
• Neck and back pain
• Pain associated with osteoporosis.

Opioid analgesics

Tramadol is a centrally acting synthetic analgesic compound. It inhibits the re uptake of neurotransmitters- serotonin and noradrenaline. Thus it modifies the transmission of pain impulses by activating both descending serotonergic pathways and noradrenergic pathways involved in analgesia. The analgesic effects of Tramadol are mediated via stimulation of mu-opioid receptors and indirect modulation of central monoaminergic inhibitory pathways.

Capsule or Tablet: Usual doses are 50 to 100 mg every four to six hours. For acute pain an initial dose of 100 mg is required. For chronic painful conditions an initial dose of 50 mg is recommended. Subsequent doses should be 50 to 100 mg administered 4-6 hourly. The dose level and frequency of dosing will depend on the severity of the pain.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Sustained Release Capsule or Tablet: One SR capsule or tablet every 12 hours, for example first one in the morning and then at the same time in the evening. The number of capsules taken at a time will depend upon severity of pain, but it should not be taken more frequently than every 12 hours.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Injection: A dose of 50-100 mg may be given every 4 to 6 hours by intramuscular or by intravenous infusion. For the treatment of postoperative pain,the initial dose is 100 mg followed by 50 mg every 10 to 20 minutes if necessary to a maximum of 250 mg in the first hour. Thereafter, doses are 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours up to a total daily dose of 600 mg.

Suppository: Tramadol suppository should be administered rectally. For adults usual dose is 100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride 6 hourly. In general, 400 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride (4 Tramadol suppository) per day sufficient. However, for the treatment of Cancer pain and severe pain after operations much higher daily doses can be used.

Commonly occurring side-effects are dizziness/vertigo, nausea, constipation, headache, somnolence, vomiting, pruritus, CNS stimulation, asthenia, sweating, dyspepsia, dry mouth, diarrhoea. Less commonly occurring side-effects include malaise, allergic reaction, weight loss, vasodilatation, palpitations, abdominal pain, anorexia, flatulence, GI bleeding, hepatitis, stomatitis etc.

Tramadol is contraindicated in persons having hypersensitivity to this drug. It is also contraindicated in acute intoxication with alcohol, hypnotics, centrally acting analgesics, opioids or psychotropic drugs.

Respiratory depression: When large doses of tramadol are administered with anaesthetic with anaesthetic medications or alcohol, respiratory depression may result. Therefore, tramadol should be administered cautiously in patients at risk for respiratory depression.

Opioid dependence: Tramadol is not recommended for patients who are dependent on opioids.

Concomitant CNS depressants: Tramadol should be used with caution and in reduced dosages when administering to patients receiving CNS depressants such as alcohol, opioids, anesthetic agents, phenothiazines, tranquilizers or sedative hypnotics.

Concomitant MAO inhibitors: Tramadol should be used with great caution in patients taking MAO inhibitors, since tramadol inhibits the uptake of norepinephrine and serotonin.

Tramadol should be used with caution in patients with increased intracranial pressure or head injury and patients with acute abdominal conditions.

In general, physician need not be concerned about drugs interacting with Tramadol. The monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors represent the only drug class not recommended for combination with Tramadol. Concomitant administration of carbamazepine with Tramadol causes a significant increase in Tramadol metabolism and it requires to increase the dose of Tramadol.

Safe use of Tramadol in pregnancy has not been established. Tramadol has been shown to cross the placenta. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, Tramadol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the foetus. Tramadol Hydrochloride should not be administered during breast feeding as Tramadol and its metabolites have been detected in breast milk.

In children from the age of 1 year Tramadol Hydrochloride can be given in a dose of 1-2 mg/kg body weight. However,suppository (100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride) should not be administered in children and adolescents below the age of 14 years. Tramadol Hydrochloride 100 mg SR Capsules have not been studied in children. Therefore, safety and efficacy have not been established and the product should not be used in children.

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Moxifloxacin is indicated for the treatment of acute bacterial sinusitis, acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, community acquired pneumonia, uncomplicated & complicated skin and skin structure infections, complicated intra-abdominal infections and pelvic inflammatory disease.

4-Quinolone preparations

Moxifloxacin is a 4th generation synthetic broad spectrum, fluoroquinolone class of antibacterial drug. It has activity against a wide range of gram-positive, gram-negative, anaerobic and atypical bacteria including Mycoplasma pneumoniae. It acts by inhibiting topoisomerase II (DNA gyrase) and topoisomerase IV which are necessary for bacterial DNA replication, transcription & repair.

Acute bacterial sinusitis: 400 mg once daily 7-10 days.
Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis: 400 mg once daily 5-10 days.
Community-acquired pneumonia: 400 mg once daily 7-14 days.
Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections: 400 mg once daily 7 days.
Complicated skin and skin structure infections: 400 mg once daily 7-21 days.
Complicated intra-abdominal infections: 400 mg once daily 5-14 days.
Pelvic inflammatory disease: 400 mg once daily 14 days.

Common side effects of Moxifloxacin include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache and dizziness.

It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Moxifloxacin or other quinolones.

Moxifloxacin may cause an increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture. It should be discontinued if pain or inflammation in a tendon occurs. It should not be used in patients with known prolongation of the QT interval, patients with uncorrected hypokalemia, and patients with receiving Class IA or Class III antiarrhythmic agents

Moxifloxacin absorption is decreased when administered with antacids, sucralfate, multivitamins, and multivalent cations (e.g. iron or zinc). Moxifloxacin may enhance the risk of convulsions with NSAIDs and bleeding with warfarin. So concomitant use of Moxifloxacin with them should be avoided.

US FDA pregnancy category C. Moxifloxacin is not recommended during pregnancy & lactation.

Renal or hepatic impaired patients: No dose adjustment is necessary for patients with renal or hepatic impairment.

Pediatric patients: Safety and effectiveness of Moxifloxacin in pediatric patients and adolescent less than 18 years of age have not been established.

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

Azithromycin is acid-stable and can therefore be taken orally with no need of protection from gastric acids. It is readily absorbed; its absorption is greater on an empty stomach. Time to peak concentration in adults is 2.1 to 3.2 hours for oral dosage forms. Due to the high concentration in phagocytes, azithromycin is actively transported to the site of infection. During active phagocytosis, large concentrations of azithromycin are released. The concentration of azithromycin in the tissues can be over 50 times higher than in plasma. This is due to ion trapping and the high lipid solubility.

Azithromycin's half-life allows a large single dose to be administered and yet maintain bacteriostatic levels in the infected tissue for several days. Following a single 500 mg dose, plasma concentrations of azithromycin declined in a polyphasic pattern with a mean apparent plasma clearance of 630 mL/min and a terminal elimination half life of 68 hours. The prolonged terminal half-life is thought to be due to extensive uptake and subsequent release of drug from tissues. Biliary excretion of azithromycin, predominantly unchanged, is a major route of elimination. Over the course of a week, approximately 6% of the administered dose appears as unchanged drug in urine.

Microbiology: Azithromycin acts by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms and, thus, interfering with microbial protein synthesis. Nucleic acid synthesis is not affected. Azithromycin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections:

• Aerobic and facultative gram-positive microorganisms: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes
• Aerobic and facultative gram-negative microorganisms: Haemophilus ducreyi, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae
• Other microorganisms: Chlamydia pneumoniae, Chlamydia trachomatis , Mycoplasma pneumoniae , Betalactamase production should have no effect on azithromycin activity.
• Aerobic and facultative gram-positive microorganisms: Streptococci (Groups C,F,G), Viridans group streptococci
• Aerobic and facultative gram-negative microorganisms: Bordetella pertussis, Legionella pneumophila
• Anaerobic microorganisms: Peptostreptococcus species, Prevotella bivia

Oral-
Adult: 500 mg once daily orally for 3 days or 500 mg once on day 1, then 250 mg once on days 2-5 for 4 days. For sexually transmitted diseases caused by Chlamydia trachomatis in adults, the dose is 1 gm given as a single dose or 500 mg once on day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily for next 2 days may also be given.

Children:

• 10 mg/kg body weight once daily for 3 days for child over 6 months
• 200 mg (1 teaspoonful) for 3 days if body weight is 15-25 kg
• 300 mg (1½ teaspoonfuls) for 3 days if body weight is 26-35 kg; 400 mg (2 teaspoonfuls) for 3 days if body weight is 36-45 kg.
• In typhoid fever, 500 mg (2½ teaspoonfuls) once daily for 7-10 days is given.

Azithromycin Injection (For IV Infusion only): The recommended dose of Azithromycin for injection for the treatment of adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia due to the indicated organisms is:

• 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for at least two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by Azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 500 mg, administered as two 250-mg tablets to complete a 7 to 10-day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response.
• The recommended dose of Azithromycin for the treatment of adult patients with pelvic inflammatory disease due to the indicated organisms is: 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for one or two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by Azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 250 mg to complete a 7-day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response. If anaerobic microorganisms are suspected of contributing to the infection, an antimicrobial agent with anaerobic activity should be administered in combination with Azithromycin.
• Safety and effectiveness of azithromycin for injection in children or adolescents under 16 years have not been established.

Reconstitution procedure of suspension-

• Step 01: Shake the bottle well to loosen the powder.
• Step 02: Add boiled and cooled water up to the water mark of the bottle label.
• Step 03: Shake until powder is completely mixed with water.

Azithromycin should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meal.

Azithromycin is well tolerated with a low incidence of side effects. The side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort (pain/cramps), flatulence, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness, and skin rashes and are reversible upon discontinuation of therapy.

Azithromycin is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to Azithromycin or any other macrolide antibiotic. Co-administration of ergot derivatives and Azithromycin is contraindicated. Azithromycin is contraindicated in patients with hepatic diseases.

As with any antibiotic, observation for signs of superinfection with non-susceptible organisms, including fungi, is recommended. No dose adjustment is needed in patients with renal impairment.

Azithromycin absorption is reduced in presence of food and antacid. In patients receiving ergot alkaloids Azithromycin should be avoided because of the possibility of ergotism resulting from interaction of Azithromycin with the cytochrome P-450 system. As macrolides increase the plasma concentration of digoxin and cyclosporin, caution should be exercised while co-administration. There have been no drug interactions between Azithromycin and Warfarin, Theophylline, Carbamazepine, Methylprednisolone or Cimetidine.

Pregnancy Category of Azithromycin is B. Animal reproduction studies have demonstrated that Azithromycin has no evidence of harm to the fetus. There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Since animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, Azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if adequate alternatives are not available. It is not known whether Azithromycin is secreted in breast milk. So, caution should be exercised when Azithromycin is administered to nursing women.

There is no data on overdosage with Azithromycin. Typical symptoms of overdosage with macrolide antibiotics include hearing loss, severe nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Gastric lavage and general supportive measures are indicated.

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

Specific mineral preparations

Zinc sulphate monohydrate is an essential trace element and is involved in a number of body enzyme systems. The body needs zinc for normal growth and health. Zinc is also vital for sexual maturation and reproduction, dark vision adaptation, olfactory and gustatory activity, insulin storage & release and for a variety of host immune defenses. Zinc deficiency may lead to impaired immune function, delayed wound healing, a decrease in sense of taste and smell, a reduced ability to fight infections, poor night vision, increased risk of abortion, alopecia, mental lethargy, skin changes and poor development of reproductive organs.

Child under 10 kg: 5 ml (1 teaspoonful) 2 times daily after food.
Child between 10-30 kg: 10 ml (2 teaspoonfuls) 1-3 times daily after food.
Adults and child over 30 kg: 20 ml (4 teaspoonfuls) 1-3 times daily after food.

This drug is most effective if they are taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hour after meals. However, if causes stomach upset, this may be taken with a meal.

For dispersible tablet-

• Place the tablet in a teaspoon
• Add adequate amount of water
• Let the tablet dissolve completely
• Give the entire spoonful solution

Zinc may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach upset, heartburn and gastritis.

It is contraindicated in those who are hypersensitive to any component of the ingredient of this preparation.

In acute renal failure, zinc accumulation may occur in body; so dose adjustment is needed.

Concomitant intake of a tetracycline and zinc may decrease the absorption of both the tetracycline and zinc. Similarly concomitant administration of zinc and quinolone drug may also decrease the absorption of both. Concomitant intake of penicillamine and zinc may decrese absorption of zinc.

The safety of this product in human pregnancy has not been established. Zinc crosses the placenta and is present in breast milk.

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

Specific mineral preparations

Zinc sulphate monohydrate is an essential trace element and is involved in a number of body enzyme systems. The body needs zinc for normal growth and health. Zinc is also vital for sexual maturation and reproduction, dark vision adaptation, olfactory and gustatory activity, insulin storage & release and for a variety of host immune defenses. Zinc deficiency may lead to impaired immune function, delayed wound healing, a decrease in sense of taste and smell, a reduced ability to fight infections, poor night vision, increased risk of abortion, alopecia, mental lethargy, skin changes and poor development of reproductive organs.

Child under 10 kg: 5 ml (1 teaspoonful) 2 times daily after food.
Child between 10-30 kg: 10 ml (2 teaspoonfuls) 1-3 times daily after food.
Adults and child over 30 kg: 20 ml (4 teaspoonfuls) 1-3 times daily after food.

This drug is most effective if they are taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hour after meals. However, if causes stomach upset, this may be taken with a meal.

For dispersible tablet-

• Place the tablet in a teaspoon
• Add adequate amount of water
• Let the tablet dissolve completely
• Give the entire spoonful solution

Zinc may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach upset, heartburn and gastritis.

It is contraindicated in those who are hypersensitive to any component of the ingredient of this preparation.

In acute renal failure, zinc accumulation may occur in body; so dose adjustment is needed.

Concomitant intake of a tetracycline and zinc may decrease the absorption of both the tetracycline and zinc. Similarly concomitant administration of zinc and quinolone drug may also decrease the absorption of both. Concomitant intake of penicillamine and zinc may decrese absorption of zinc.

The safety of this product in human pregnancy has not been established. Zinc crosses the placenta and is present in breast milk.

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

Gatifloxacin eye drops is indicated for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis caused by susceptible strains of the following organisms:

• Aerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria: Corynebacterium propinquum, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Aerobic Gram-Negative Bacteria: Haemophilus influenzae.

Ophthalmic antibacterial drugs

The antibacterial action of gatifloxacin results from inhibition of DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. DNA gyrase is an essential enzyme that is involved in the replication, transcription and repair of bacterial DNA. Topoisomerase IV is an enzyme known to play a key role in the partitioning of the chromosomal DNA during bacterial cell division. The mechanism of action of fluoroquinolones including gatifloxacin is different from that of aminoglycoside, macrolide, and tetracycline antibiotics. Therefore, gatifloxacin may be active against pathogens that are resistant to these antibiotics and these antibiotics may be active against pathogens that are resistant to gatifloxacin. There is no crossresistance between gatifloxacin and the aforementioned classes of antibiotics. Cross resistance has been observed between systemic gatifloxacin and some other fluoroquinolones. Resistance to gatifloxacin in vitro develops via multiple-step mutations.

0.3% eye drops-

The recommended dosage regimen for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis is:

• Days 1 and 2: Instill one drop every two hours in the affected eye(s) while awake, up to 8 times daily.
• Days 3 through 7: Instill one drop up to 4 times daily while awake.

0.5% eye drops-

Patients 1 year of age or older: Instill one drop every two hours in the affected eye(s) while awake, up to 8 times on Day 1. Instill one drop two to four times daily in the affected eye(s) while awake on Days 2 through 7.

The most frequently reported adverse events in the overall study population were conjunctival irritation, increased lacrimation etc.

Gatifloxacin eye drops is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Gatifloxacin, to other quinolones, or to any of the components in this medication. Gatiflox 0.3% eye drops should not be injected subconjunctivally, nor should it be introduced directly into the anterior chamber of the eye.

Patients should be advised not to wear contact lenses if they have signs and symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis. Avoid contaminating the applicator tip with material from the eye, fingers or other source.

Specific drug interaction studies have not been conducted with gatifloxacin eye drops. However, the systemic administration of some quinolones has been shown to elevate plasma concentrations of theophylline, interfere with the metabolism of caffeine, and enhance the effects of the oral anticoagulant warfarin and its derivatives, and has been associated with transient elevations in serum creatinine in patients receiving systemic cyclosporine concomitantly.

Pregnancy Category C. Because there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, Gatifloxacin 0.3% eye drops should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Lactation: It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Gatifloxacin is administered to a nursing woman.

Geriatric Use: No overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly and younger patients.

An overdose of this medication is unlikely to threaten life.

Store in a cool and dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Gatifloxacin eye drops is indicated for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis caused by susceptible strains of the following organisms:

• Aerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria: Corynebacterium propinquum, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Aerobic Gram-Negative Bacteria: Haemophilus influenzae.

Ophthalmic antibacterial drugs

The antibacterial action of gatifloxacin results from inhibition of DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. DNA gyrase is an essential enzyme that is involved in the replication, transcription and repair of bacterial DNA. Topoisomerase IV is an enzyme known to play a key role in the partitioning of the chromosomal DNA during bacterial cell division. The mechanism of action of fluoroquinolones including gatifloxacin is different from that of aminoglycoside, macrolide, and tetracycline antibiotics. Therefore, gatifloxacin may be active against pathogens that are resistant to these antibiotics and these antibiotics may be active against pathogens that are resistant to gatifloxacin. There is no crossresistance between gatifloxacin and the aforementioned classes of antibiotics. Cross resistance has been observed between systemic gatifloxacin and some other fluoroquinolones. Resistance to gatifloxacin in vitro develops via multiple-step mutations.

0.3% eye drops-

The recommended dosage regimen for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis is:

• Days 1 and 2: Instill one drop every two hours in the affected eye(s) while awake, up to 8 times daily.
• Days 3 through 7: Instill one drop up to 4 times daily while awake.

0.5% eye drops-

Patients 1 year of age or older: Instill one drop every two hours in the affected eye(s) while awake, up to 8 times on Day 1. Instill one drop two to four times daily in the affected eye(s) while awake on Days 2 through 7.

The most frequently reported adverse events in the overall study population were conjunctival irritation, increased lacrimation etc.

Gatifloxacin eye drops is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Gatifloxacin, to other quinolones, or to any of the components in this medication. Gatiflox 0.3% eye drops should not be injected subconjunctivally, nor should it be introduced directly into the anterior chamber of the eye.

Patients should be advised not to wear contact lenses if they have signs and symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis. Avoid contaminating the applicator tip with material from the eye, fingers or other source.

Specific drug interaction studies have not been conducted with gatifloxacin eye drops. However, the systemic administration of some quinolones has been shown to elevate plasma concentrations of theophylline, interfere with the metabolism of caffeine, and enhance the effects of the oral anticoagulant warfarin and its derivatives, and has been associated with transient elevations in serum creatinine in patients receiving systemic cyclosporine concomitantly.

Pregnancy Category C. Because there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, Gatifloxacin 0.3% eye drops should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Lactation: It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Gatifloxacin is administered to a nursing woman.

Geriatric Use: No overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly and younger patients.

An overdose of this medication is unlikely to threaten life.

Store in a cool and dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Pancreatin is employed for the treatment of patients with

• Chronic pancreatitis
• Cystic fibrosis/Mucoviscidosis
• Following partial or complete pancreatectomy
• Total gastrectomy
• Steatorrhea
• Somatostatinoma
• Celiac disease and
• Other conditions associated with pancreatic insufficiency

Digestive Enzyme

Pancreatin is a preparation of Pancreatin, an extract from mammalian pancreas containing enzymes with Amylase, Protease and Lipase activity. It is designed to disintegrate in the alkaline medium of the duodenum where it releases the active enzyme components of Pancreatin (Amylase, Protease and Lipase). Amylase hydrolyzes dietary starch to yield maltose, maltoriose and a-dextrin. Protease cleaves peptide bonds in the center of proteins and polypeptides and forms amino acids and oligopeptides. Lipase hydrolyzes dietary triglycerides forming two molecules of fatty acid and a molecule of beta-monoglyceride. It converts not less than 25 times its weight of starch into soluble carbohydrates and not less than 25 times its weight of casein into proteoses within 5 mins, (equivalent to 150 times in 30 mins).

2-3 tablets to be swallowed whole with little water immediately after or during meal. Or as directed by the physician

The most frequent side effects are gastrointestinal including nausea, vomiting and abdominal discomfort. Buccal and perianal soreness may occur, particularly in infants. Hypersensitivity reactions manifested by sneezing, lacrimation or skin rashes have been reported.

Pancreatin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug.

Patients known to be allergic to animal protein should be treated with caution.

Alkaline media will rupture the enteric coating. As such to prevent bursting out of the content in the stomach Pancreatin should not be used concurrently with antacid.

Pancreatin should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed. It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Pancreatin is administered to a nursing mother.

Excessive dosage may produce a laxative effect. Systemic toxicity does not occur. Very high dosage may cause hyperuricaemia and hyperuricosuria

Keep all medicines out of reach of children. Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.

Pancreatin is employed for the treatment of patients with

• Chronic pancreatitis
• Cystic fibrosis/Mucoviscidosis
• Following partial or complete pancreatectomy
• Total gastrectomy
• Steatorrhea
• Somatostatinoma
• Celiac disease and
• Other conditions associated with pancreatic insufficiency

Digestive Enzyme

Pancreatin is a preparation of Pancreatin, an extract from mammalian pancreas containing enzymes with Amylase, Protease and Lipase activity. It is designed to disintegrate in the alkaline medium of the duodenum where it releases the active enzyme components of Pancreatin (Amylase, Protease and Lipase). Amylase hydrolyzes dietary starch to yield maltose, maltoriose and a-dextrin. Protease cleaves peptide bonds in the center of proteins and polypeptides and forms amino acids and oligopeptides. Lipase hydrolyzes dietary triglycerides forming two molecules of fatty acid and a molecule of beta-monoglyceride. It converts not less than 25 times its weight of starch into soluble carbohydrates and not less than 25 times its weight of casein into proteoses within 5 mins, (equivalent to 150 times in 30 mins).

2-3 tablets to be swallowed whole with little water immediately after or during meal. Or as directed by the physician

The most frequent side effects are gastrointestinal including nausea, vomiting and abdominal discomfort. Buccal and perianal soreness may occur, particularly in infants. Hypersensitivity reactions manifested by sneezing, lacrimation or skin rashes have been reported.

Pancreatin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug.

Patients known to be allergic to animal protein should be treated with caution.

Alkaline media will rupture the enteric coating. As such to prevent bursting out of the content in the stomach Pancreatin should not be used concurrently with antacid.

Pancreatin should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed. It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Pancreatin is administered to a nursing mother.

Excessive dosage may produce a laxative effect. Systemic toxicity does not occur. Very high dosage may cause hyperuricaemia and hyperuricosuria

Keep all medicines out of reach of children. Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.

Ophthalmic Steroid preparations

Loteprednol (corticosteroids) are thought to act by the induction of phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, collectively called lipocortins. It is postulated that these proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A2.

Gatifloxacin is an 8-methoxyfluoroquinolone with a 3-methylpiperazinyl substituent at C7. The antibacterial action of gatifloxacin results from inhibition of DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. DNA gyrase is an essential enzyme that is involved in the replication, transcription, and repair of bacterial DNA. Topoisomerase IV is an enzyme known to play a key role in the partitioning of the chromosomal DNA during bacterial cell division. The mechanism of action of fluoroquinolones including gatifloxacin is different from that of aminoglycoside, macrolide, and tetracycline antibiotics. Therefore, gatifloxacin may be active against pathogens that are resistant to these antibiotics and these antibiotics may be active against pathogens that are resistant to gatifloxacin. Gatifloxacin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following organisms both microbiologically and clinically.

Aerobic Gram-Positive Bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus mitis group, Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Aerobic Gram-Negative Bacteria: Haemophilus influenza.

Apply one or two drops of sterile ophthalmic suspension into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) every four to six hours. During the initial 24 to 48 hours, the dosing maybe increased, to every one to two hours. Frequency should be decreased gradually as warranted by improvement in clinical signs. Care should be taken not to discontinue therapy prematurely.

Adverse reactions have occurred with steroid/anti-infective combination drugs which can be attributed to the steroid component or the anti-infective component, or the combination. Reactions associated with ophthalmic steroids include elevated IOP, which may be associated with infrequent optic nerve damage, visual acuity and field detects, posterior sub capsular cataract formation, delayed wound healing, and secondary ocular infections from pathogens including herpes simplex, and perforation of the globe where there is thinning of cornea or sclera. The most frequently reported adverse effects for gatifloxacin in the overall study population were conjunctival irritation, increased lacrimation, keratitis and papillary conjunctivitis. These events occurred in approximately 5-10% of patients. Other reported reactions occurring in 1-4% of patients were chemosis, conjunctival hemorrhage, dry eye, eye discharge, eye irritation, eye pain, eyelid edema, headache, red eye, reduced visual acuity and taste disturbance. Redness was the most commonly observed adverse event occurring in 6%. Itching, discharge photophobia and blurred vision were seen in less than 2% cases.

This sterile ophthalmic suspension is contraindicated in most viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva including epithelial herpes simplex and also in mycobacterial infection of the eye and fungal diseases of ocular structures. It is also contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients of this preparation. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to other quinolones, acetylsalicylic acid and other no steroidal inflammatory medicines.

The preparation should not be injected sub conjunctively, nor should it be introduced directly into the anterior chamber of the eye. If this product is used for 10 days or longer, intraocular pressure should be monitored. Fungus invasion must be considered in any persistent corneal ulceration where a steroid has been used or is in use. If redness or itching becomes aggravated, the patient should be advised to consult a physician. Patients who wear soft contact lenses and whose eyes are not red, should be instructed to wait at least ten minutes after instilling it before they insert their contact lenses.

No drug interaction is reported yet. If several medicines are to be administered to the eye, there should be an interval of at least 5 minutes between each application.

Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when this is administered to a nursing woman.

Store at room temperature & protect from light. Do not touch dropper tip to any surface. It is desirable that the contents should not be used one month after first opening of the bottle. Protect from freezing.