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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.

Minerals in bone formation, Specific mineral preparations

Calcium carbonate reacts with gastric acid to produce a salt and water. For calcium carbonate the postulated chemical reaction is: CaCO₃+2HCl = CaCl₂+H₂O+CO₂. Two grams of calcium carbonate will readily bring 100 ml of hydrochloric acid to a pH above 6. The increase in gastric pH diminishes the activity of pepsin in the gastric secretion. Up to 30% of the oral calcium load may be absorbed.

250 mg or 500 mg tablet: Calcium Carbonate is always used orally and when used as an antacid the recommended doses for adults are equivalent to 540-2000 mg Calcium Carbonate per day, doses for children being half of those for adults. As a dietary supplement, such as for the prevention of osteoporosis, 1250-3750 mg Calcium Carbonate (500-1500 mg calcium) daily is recommended in general, but again this will need to be tailored to the individual patient depending on any specific disease such as Calcium deficiency, malabsorption or parathyroid function. In pregnancy and lactation the recommended daily dose of calcium is 1200-1500 mg. In chronic renal failure the doses used vary from 2.5-9.0 gm Calcium Carbonate per day and need to be adjusted according to the individual patient. To maximize effective phosphate binding in this context the Calcium Carbonate should be given with meals.

1000 mg tablet: 2000-3000 mg tablet when symptoms occur; may be repeated hourly if needed or as directed by the physician.

Orally administered Calcium Carbonate may be irritating to the GI tract. It may also cause constipation. Hypercalcaemia is rarely produced by administration of calcium alone, but may occur when large doses are given to patients with chronic renal failure.

• Hypercalcaemia and hyperparathyroidism
• Hypercalciuria and nephrolithiasis
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
• Concomitant digoxin therapy (requires careful monitoring of serum calcium level)

When hypercalcaemia occurs, discontinuation of the drug is usually sufficient to return serum calcium concentrations to normal. Calcium salts should be used cautiously in patients with sarcoidosis, renal or cardiac disease, and in patients receiving cardiac glycosides.

Calcium Carbonate may enhance the cardiac effects of digoxin and other cardiac glycosides, if systemic hypercalcaemia occurs. Calcium Carbonate may interfere with the absorption of concomitantly administered tetracycline preparations and in chronic renal failure modification of vitamin D therapy may be required to avoid hypercalcaemia when Calcium Carbonate is used as the primary phosphate binder.

Calcium containing drugs have been widely used in pregnancy by way of oral calcium supplementation or antacid therapy. Calcium Carbonate can be used in lactating women too.

Use in children: Calcium carbonate has been extensively studied in children and infants with chronic renal failure and is both safe and effective.

Use in elderly: In case of elderly patients with renal failure when calcium carbonate is taken constipation may be troublesome one for this group. For this reason, monitoring of serum calcium and phosphate is of course indicated for elderly patients.

Store in a cool, dry place in controlled room temperature.

Specific mineral & vitamin combined preparations

This is the preparation of Calcium Carbonate and Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol). Calcium is necessary for many normal functions of our body, especially bone formation and maintenance. Vitamin D3 helps for the absorption & reabsorption of Calcium. Vitamin D3 also stimulates bone formation. Clinical studies showed that Calcium and Vitamin D3 all together helps in bone growth, and in prevention of osteoporosis & bone fracture.

Calcium 500 mg and Vitamin D3 200 IU Tablet: 2 tablets daily or 1 tablet twice daily. It is best taken with or just after a meal to improve absorption.

Calcium 500 mg and Vitamin D3 400 IU Tablet: 1 tablet twice daily. It is best taken with or just after a meal to improve absorption.

It is generally well tolerated. If there is experience like nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, dry mouth, increased thirst, increased urination while taking, noticed to physicians. Constipation may occur.

It is contraindicated in case of hypercalcaemia, hyperthyroidism, renal calculi & nephrolithiasis and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.

If there is any pre-existing heart disease or kidney disease, precautions should be taken.

It has possible interaction with calcium, aluminium or magnesium containing antacids &  other calcium supplements, calcitriol & other vitamin D3 supplements; digoxin, tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline or oxytetracycline.

This combination should be used as directed by physician during pregnancy or while breast-feeding.

Symptoms of overdosage may include nausea and vomiting, severe drowsiness, dry mouth, loss of appetite, metallic taste, stomach cramps, diarrhea, headache, constipation.

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

First generation Cephalosporins

Cephradine is a semisynthetic broad spectrum bactericidal antibiotic, it is active against infections caused by both gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. Both penicillinase producing and nonproducing staphylococci are sensitive to Cephradine. The main site of action of Cephradine is the cell wall of bacteria. Cell wall of sensitive organism contains peptidoglycan. Cephradine inhibits cross-linking process and as a result cell wall with many pores are formed, thus lysis of bacteria occur due to external osmotic pressure.

For oral administration-
Adults:

• Urinary tract infections: 500mg four times daily or 1g twice daily. Infections which are severe or chronic may necessitate the administration of higher doses. Where complications arise including prostatitis and epididymitis continued intensive treatment is required.
• Respiratory tract infections: 250 to 500mg four times daily or 500mg to 1g twice daily, dependent on the site and severity of the infection.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: 250 to 500mg four times daily or 500mg to 1g twice daily, again dependent on the site and severity of the infection.

Children:

• Total daily dose of 25 to 50mg/kg given in two or four equally divided doses.
• Otitis media: Total daily dose of 75 to 100mg/kg given in divided doses 6 to 12 hourly.
• Maximum daily dosage: 4 gm

Elderly: The normal adult dose is appropriate. Patients with impaired renal or hepatic function should be monitored during treatment.

For injectable administration-

• Adult: The usual dose is 2-4 gm daily in four equally divided doses up to 8 gm daily. For prophylaxis a single preoperative dose of 1-2 gm intramuscularly or intravenously is given.
• Children: The dose is 50-100 mg/kg daily in four equally divided doses, up to 300 mg/kg daily in severe infection.

Limited essentially to gastro-intestinal disturbances and on occasions to hypersensitivity phenomena. The latter are more likely to occur in individuals, who have previously demonstrated hypersensitivity and thos with a history of allergy, asthma, hay fever or urticaria. Skin reactions have occasionally been reported. Rare- Glossitis, heartburn, dizziness, tightness in the chest, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, vaginitis, candida overgrowth. Skin and hypersensitivity reactions include urticaria, skin rashes, joint pains, oedema.

• Blood and lymphatic system disorders- Unknown: blood disorders (including thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, agranulocytosis, aplastic anaemia and haemolytic anaemia)
• Immune system disorders- Unknown: Fever, serum sickness like reactions, anaphylaxis
• Psychiatric disorders- Unknown: Confusion, sleep disturbances
• Nervous system disorders- Unknown: hyperactivity, hypertonia, dizziness, nervousness; Rarely: Headache
• Hepatobiliary disorders- Frequency unknown: Liver, enzyme disturbances, transient hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice
• Renal and urinary disorders- Unknown: Reversible interstitial nephritis
• Investigations- Unknown: Elevation of blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase.

Cephradine should not be used in patients with known or suspected hypersensitivity to cephalosporins.

The concomitant use of nephrotoxic drugs such as aminoglycosides with Cefradine may increase the risk of kidney damage. Diuretics (e.g. frusemide, ethacrynic acid) and probenecid enhanced the possibility of renal toxicity.

Although animal studies have not demonstrated any teratogenicity, safety in pregnancy has not been established. Cephradine is excreted in breast milk and should be used with caution in lactating mothers. Since the medicine may cause dizziness, patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles.

Renal Impairment: The following doses are recommended (based on 500 mg every 6 hours) for patients not on haemodialysis:

• CrCl: >20 ml/min: 500 mg every 6 hours
• CrCl: 5-20 ml/min: 250 mg every 6 hours
• CrCl: <5 ml/min: 250 mg every 50-70 hours.

Recommendations for patients on chronic, intermittent haemodialysis:

• 250 mg at the start of haemodialysis
• 250 mg 6 to 12 hours after the start
• 250 mg 36 to 48 hours after the start
• 250 mg at the start of the next haemodialysis session if more than 30 hours have elapsed since the last dose.

Additional Information for all patients Regardless of patient age or weight, higher doses of up to 1 gm four times daily may be required for infections which are chronic or severe. Treatment should continue for at least 2 to 3 days after symptoms have resolved or bacteria have been eradicated. To reduce the possibility of rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis resulting from infections with haemolytic streptococci, treatment should be continued for at least 10 days. Throughout treatment of chronic urinary tract infections and for several months thereafter, regular bacteriological and clinical monitoring is required.

Doses below those recommended above should not be prescribed. Paediatric dosages should not exceed those specified for adults, regardless of severity of infection. It may be necessary to continue Cephradine therapy for several weeks in persistent infections. Patients may be transferred from intramuscular/intravenous Cephradine therapy to oral treatment at the same dosage level.

The symptoms of Sefrad overdose are non-specific and are generally nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and gastric upsets. Treatment is mainly supportive although gastric lavage will be necessary if a large amount has been ingested.

Cephradine Suspension should be freshly prepared. Reconstituted Suspension should be used within 7 days if kept at room temperature or within 14 days, if kept in a refrigerator. Cephradine Injection solutions should be used within 2 hours when kept at room temperature. When stored at 5°C, solutions retain potency for 12 hours. Reconstituted solutions may vary in colour from light to straw yellow; however, this does not affect the potency. Do not use later than the date of expiry. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children. To be dispensed only on the prescription of a registered physician

First generation Cephalosporins

Cephradine is a semisynthetic broad spectrum bactericidal antibiotic, it is active against infections caused by both gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. Both penicillinase producing and nonproducing staphylococci are sensitive to Cephradine. The main site of action of Cephradine is the cell wall of bacteria. Cell wall of sensitive organism contains peptidoglycan. Cephradine inhibits cross-linking process and as a result cell wall with many pores are formed, thus lysis of bacteria occur due to external osmotic pressure.

For oral administration-
Adults:

• Urinary tract infections: 500mg four times daily or 1g twice daily. Infections which are severe or chronic may necessitate the administration of higher doses. Where complications arise including prostatitis and epididymitis continued intensive treatment is required.
• Respiratory tract infections: 250 to 500mg four times daily or 500mg to 1g twice daily, dependent on the site and severity of the infection.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: 250 to 500mg four times daily or 500mg to 1g twice daily, again dependent on the site and severity of the infection.

Children:

• Total daily dose of 25 to 50mg/kg given in two or four equally divided doses.
• Otitis media: Total daily dose of 75 to 100mg/kg given in divided doses 6 to 12 hourly.
• Maximum daily dosage: 4 gm

Elderly: The normal adult dose is appropriate. Patients with impaired renal or hepatic function should be monitored during treatment.

For injectable administration-

• Adult: The usual dose is 2-4 gm daily in four equally divided doses up to 8 gm daily. For prophylaxis a single preoperative dose of 1-2 gm intramuscularly or intravenously is given.
• Children: The dose is 50-100 mg/kg daily in four equally divided doses, up to 300 mg/kg daily in severe infection.

Limited essentially to gastro-intestinal disturbances and on occasions to hypersensitivity phenomena. The latter are more likely to occur in individuals, who have previously demonstrated hypersensitivity and thos with a history of allergy, asthma, hay fever or urticaria. Skin reactions have occasionally been reported. Rare- Glossitis, heartburn, dizziness, tightness in the chest, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, vaginitis, candida overgrowth. Skin and hypersensitivity reactions include urticaria, skin rashes, joint pains, oedema.

• Blood and lymphatic system disorders- Unknown: blood disorders (including thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, agranulocytosis, aplastic anaemia and haemolytic anaemia)
• Immune system disorders- Unknown: Fever, serum sickness like reactions, anaphylaxis
• Psychiatric disorders- Unknown: Confusion, sleep disturbances
• Nervous system disorders- Unknown: hyperactivity, hypertonia, dizziness, nervousness; Rarely: Headache
• Hepatobiliary disorders- Frequency unknown: Liver, enzyme disturbances, transient hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice
• Renal and urinary disorders- Unknown: Reversible interstitial nephritis
• Investigations- Unknown: Elevation of blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase.

Cephradine should not be used in patients with known or suspected hypersensitivity to cephalosporins.

The concomitant use of nephrotoxic drugs such as aminoglycosides with Cefradine may increase the risk of kidney damage. Diuretics (e.g. frusemide, ethacrynic acid) and probenecid enhanced the possibility of renal toxicity.

Although animal studies have not demonstrated any teratogenicity, safety in pregnancy has not been established. Cephradine is excreted in breast milk and should be used with caution in lactating mothers. Since the medicine may cause dizziness, patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles.

Renal Impairment: The following doses are recommended (based on 500 mg every 6 hours) for patients not on haemodialysis:

• CrCl: >20 ml/min: 500 mg every 6 hours
• CrCl: 5-20 ml/min: 250 mg every 6 hours
• CrCl: <5 ml/min: 250 mg every 50-70 hours.

Recommendations for patients on chronic, intermittent haemodialysis:

• 250 mg at the start of haemodialysis
• 250 mg 6 to 12 hours after the start
• 250 mg 36 to 48 hours after the start
• 250 mg at the start of the next haemodialysis session if more than 30 hours have elapsed since the last dose.

Additional Information for all patients Regardless of patient age or weight, higher doses of up to 1 gm four times daily may be required for infections which are chronic or severe. Treatment should continue for at least 2 to 3 days after symptoms have resolved or bacteria have been eradicated. To reduce the possibility of rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis resulting from infections with haemolytic streptococci, treatment should be continued for at least 10 days. Throughout treatment of chronic urinary tract infections and for several months thereafter, regular bacteriological and clinical monitoring is required.

Doses below those recommended above should not be prescribed. Paediatric dosages should not exceed those specified for adults, regardless of severity of infection. It may be necessary to continue Cephradine therapy for several weeks in persistent infections. Patients may be transferred from intramuscular/intravenous Cephradine therapy to oral treatment at the same dosage level.

The symptoms of Sefrad overdose are non-specific and are generally nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and gastric upsets. Treatment is mainly supportive although gastric lavage will be necessary if a large amount has been ingested.

Cephradine Suspension should be freshly prepared. Reconstituted Suspension should be used within 7 days if kept at room temperature or within 14 days, if kept in a refrigerator. Cephradine Injection solutions should be used within 2 hours when kept at room temperature. When stored at 5°C, solutions retain potency for 12 hours. Reconstituted solutions may vary in colour from light to straw yellow; however, this does not affect the potency. Do not use later than the date of expiry. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children. To be dispensed only on the prescription of a registered physician

First generation Cephalosporins

Cephradine is a semisynthetic broad spectrum bactericidal antibiotic, it is active against infections caused by both gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. Both penicillinase producing and nonproducing staphylococci are sensitive to Cephradine. The main site of action of Cephradine is the cell wall of bacteria. Cell wall of sensitive organism contains peptidoglycan. Cephradine inhibits cross-linking process and as a result cell wall with many pores are formed, thus lysis of bacteria occur due to external osmotic pressure.

For oral administration-
Adults:

• Urinary tract infections: 500mg four times daily or 1g twice daily. Infections which are severe or chronic may necessitate the administration of higher doses. Where complications arise including prostatitis and epididymitis continued intensive treatment is required.
• Respiratory tract infections: 250 to 500mg four times daily or 500mg to 1g twice daily, dependent on the site and severity of the infection.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: 250 to 500mg four times daily or 500mg to 1g twice daily, again dependent on the site and severity of the infection.

Children:

• Total daily dose of 25 to 50mg/kg given in two or four equally divided doses.
• Otitis media: Total daily dose of 75 to 100mg/kg given in divided doses 6 to 12 hourly.
• Maximum daily dosage: 4 gm

Elderly: The normal adult dose is appropriate. Patients with impaired renal or hepatic function should be monitored during treatment.

For injectable administration-

• Adult: The usual dose is 2-4 gm daily in four equally divided doses up to 8 gm daily. For prophylaxis a single preoperative dose of 1-2 gm intramuscularly or intravenously is given.
• Children: The dose is 50-100 mg/kg daily in four equally divided doses, up to 300 mg/kg daily in severe infection.

Limited essentially to gastro-intestinal disturbances and on occasions to hypersensitivity phenomena. The latter are more likely to occur in individuals, who have previously demonstrated hypersensitivity and thos with a history of allergy, asthma, hay fever or urticaria. Skin reactions have occasionally been reported. Rare- Glossitis, heartburn, dizziness, tightness in the chest, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, vaginitis, candida overgrowth. Skin and hypersensitivity reactions include urticaria, skin rashes, joint pains, oedema.

• Blood and lymphatic system disorders- Unknown: blood disorders (including thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, agranulocytosis, aplastic anaemia and haemolytic anaemia)
• Immune system disorders- Unknown: Fever, serum sickness like reactions, anaphylaxis
• Psychiatric disorders- Unknown: Confusion, sleep disturbances
• Nervous system disorders- Unknown: hyperactivity, hypertonia, dizziness, nervousness; Rarely: Headache
• Hepatobiliary disorders- Frequency unknown: Liver, enzyme disturbances, transient hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice
• Renal and urinary disorders- Unknown: Reversible interstitial nephritis
• Investigations- Unknown: Elevation of blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase.

Cephradine should not be used in patients with known or suspected hypersensitivity to cephalosporins.

The concomitant use of nephrotoxic drugs such as aminoglycosides with Cefradine may increase the risk of kidney damage. Diuretics (e.g. frusemide, ethacrynic acid) and probenecid enhanced the possibility of renal toxicity.

Although animal studies have not demonstrated any teratogenicity, safety in pregnancy has not been established. Cephradine is excreted in breast milk and should be used with caution in lactating mothers. Since the medicine may cause dizziness, patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles.

Renal Impairment: The following doses are recommended (based on 500 mg every 6 hours) for patients not on haemodialysis:

• CrCl: >20 ml/min: 500 mg every 6 hours
• CrCl: 5-20 ml/min: 250 mg every 6 hours
• CrCl: <5 ml/min: 250 mg every 50-70 hours.

Recommendations for patients on chronic, intermittent haemodialysis:

• 250 mg at the start of haemodialysis
• 250 mg 6 to 12 hours after the start
• 250 mg 36 to 48 hours after the start
• 250 mg at the start of the next haemodialysis session if more than 30 hours have elapsed since the last dose.

Additional Information for all patients Regardless of patient age or weight, higher doses of up to 1 gm four times daily may be required for infections which are chronic or severe. Treatment should continue for at least 2 to 3 days after symptoms have resolved or bacteria have been eradicated. To reduce the possibility of rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis resulting from infections with haemolytic streptococci, treatment should be continued for at least 10 days. Throughout treatment of chronic urinary tract infections and for several months thereafter, regular bacteriological and clinical monitoring is required.

Doses below those recommended above should not be prescribed. Paediatric dosages should not exceed those specified for adults, regardless of severity of infection. It may be necessary to continue Cephradine therapy for several weeks in persistent infections. Patients may be transferred from intramuscular/intravenous Cephradine therapy to oral treatment at the same dosage level.

The symptoms of Sefrad overdose are non-specific and are generally nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and gastric upsets. Treatment is mainly supportive although gastric lavage will be necessary if a large amount has been ingested.

Cephradine Suspension should be freshly prepared. Reconstituted Suspension should be used within 7 days if kept at room temperature or within 14 days, if kept in a refrigerator. Cephradine Injection solutions should be used within 2 hours when kept at room temperature. When stored at 5°C, solutions retain potency for 12 hours. Reconstituted solutions may vary in colour from light to straw yellow; however, this does not affect the potency. Do not use later than the date of expiry. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children. To be dispensed only on the prescription of a registered physician

First generation Cephalosporins

Cephradine is a semisynthetic broad spectrum bactericidal antibiotic, it is active against infections caused by both gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. Both penicillinase producing and nonproducing staphylococci are sensitive to Cephradine. The main site of action of Cephradine is the cell wall of bacteria. Cell wall of sensitive organism contains peptidoglycan. Cephradine inhibits cross-linking process and as a result cell wall with many pores are formed, thus lysis of bacteria occur due to external osmotic pressure.

For oral administration-
Adults:

• Urinary tract infections: 500mg four times daily or 1g twice daily. Infections which are severe or chronic may necessitate the administration of higher doses. Where complications arise including prostatitis and epididymitis continued intensive treatment is required.
• Respiratory tract infections: 250 to 500mg four times daily or 500mg to 1g twice daily, dependent on the site and severity of the infection.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: 250 to 500mg four times daily or 500mg to 1g twice daily, again dependent on the site and severity of the infection.

Children:

• Total daily dose of 25 to 50mg/kg given in two or four equally divided doses.
• Otitis media: Total daily dose of 75 to 100mg/kg given in divided doses 6 to 12 hourly.
• Maximum daily dosage: 4 gm

Elderly: The normal adult dose is appropriate. Patients with impaired renal or hepatic function should be monitored during treatment.

For injectable administration-

• Adult: The usual dose is 2-4 gm daily in four equally divided doses up to 8 gm daily. For prophylaxis a single preoperative dose of 1-2 gm intramuscularly or intravenously is given.
• Children: The dose is 50-100 mg/kg daily in four equally divided doses, up to 300 mg/kg daily in severe infection.

Limited essentially to gastro-intestinal disturbances and on occasions to hypersensitivity phenomena. The latter are more likely to occur in individuals, who have previously demonstrated hypersensitivity and thos with a history of allergy, asthma, hay fever or urticaria. Skin reactions have occasionally been reported. Rare- Glossitis, heartburn, dizziness, tightness in the chest, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, vaginitis, candida overgrowth. Skin and hypersensitivity reactions include urticaria, skin rashes, joint pains, oedema.

• Blood and lymphatic system disorders- Unknown: blood disorders (including thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, agranulocytosis, aplastic anaemia and haemolytic anaemia)
• Immune system disorders- Unknown: Fever, serum sickness like reactions, anaphylaxis
• Psychiatric disorders- Unknown: Confusion, sleep disturbances
• Nervous system disorders- Unknown: hyperactivity, hypertonia, dizziness, nervousness; Rarely: Headache
• Hepatobiliary disorders- Frequency unknown: Liver, enzyme disturbances, transient hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice
• Renal and urinary disorders- Unknown: Reversible interstitial nephritis
• Investigations- Unknown: Elevation of blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase.

Cephradine should not be used in patients with known or suspected hypersensitivity to cephalosporins.

The concomitant use of nephrotoxic drugs such as aminoglycosides with Cefradine may increase the risk of kidney damage. Diuretics (e.g. frusemide, ethacrynic acid) and probenecid enhanced the possibility of renal toxicity.

Although animal studies have not demonstrated any teratogenicity, safety in pregnancy has not been established. Cephradine is excreted in breast milk and should be used with caution in lactating mothers. Since the medicine may cause dizziness, patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles.

Renal Impairment: The following doses are recommended (based on 500 mg every 6 hours) for patients not on haemodialysis:

• CrCl: >20 ml/min: 500 mg every 6 hours
• CrCl: 5-20 ml/min: 250 mg every 6 hours
• CrCl: <5 ml/min: 250 mg every 50-70 hours.

Recommendations for patients on chronic, intermittent haemodialysis:

• 250 mg at the start of haemodialysis
• 250 mg 6 to 12 hours after the start
• 250 mg 36 to 48 hours after the start
• 250 mg at the start of the next haemodialysis session if more than 30 hours have elapsed since the last dose.

Additional Information for all patients Regardless of patient age or weight, higher doses of up to 1 gm four times daily may be required for infections which are chronic or severe. Treatment should continue for at least 2 to 3 days after symptoms have resolved or bacteria have been eradicated. To reduce the possibility of rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis resulting from infections with haemolytic streptococci, treatment should be continued for at least 10 days. Throughout treatment of chronic urinary tract infections and for several months thereafter, regular bacteriological and clinical monitoring is required.

Doses below those recommended above should not be prescribed. Paediatric dosages should not exceed those specified for adults, regardless of severity of infection. It may be necessary to continue Cephradine therapy for several weeks in persistent infections. Patients may be transferred from intramuscular/intravenous Cephradine therapy to oral treatment at the same dosage level.

The symptoms of Sefrad overdose are non-specific and are generally nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and gastric upsets. Treatment is mainly supportive although gastric lavage will be necessary if a large amount has been ingested.

Cephradine Suspension should be freshly prepared. Reconstituted Suspension should be used within 7 days if kept at room temperature or within 14 days, if kept in a refrigerator. Cephradine Injection solutions should be used within 2 hours when kept at room temperature. When stored at 5°C, solutions retain potency for 12 hours. Reconstituted solutions may vary in colour from light to straw yellow; however, this does not affect the potency. Do not use later than the date of expiry. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children. To be dispensed only on the prescription of a registered physician

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.

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.

Hydrocortisone & Combined preparations

Miconazole is a substituted imidazole, is one of the family of azoles useful in treating the superficial candidiasis and of the skin infections dermatophytosis and pityriasis versicolor, acanthameaba, seborrhoic dermatitis. Also active against Aspergillus spp., Cryptococcus neoformans, Pseudalescheria boydii and some gram-positive bacteria including Staphylococci and Streptococci.

Hydrocortisone is a naturally occurring glucocorticoid that's now prepared synthetically. Its important function is in the skin injury such as inflammation. Also it has antipruritic, antimycotic and vasoconstrictive activity.

Miconazole is imidazole antifungal agents that interfere with ergosterol synthesis and therefore alters the permeability of the cell membrane of sensitive fungi. Thus causes the killing of fungi, when applied to the skin, Hydrocortisone is absorbed into the skin cells. It prevents the release of certain chemicals, which is responsible for inflammation. Thus hydrocortisone reduces inflammation.

Apply to the affected area as a thin film two or four times daily for 1 to 2 weeks. Rub it well with your finger until this cream fully vanished on the skin. Treatment should be continued at least one week after the disappearance of all signs and symptoms. The same dosage applies to both adults and children.

Rarely local sensitivity may occur. Long term use may decrease in the production of natural hormones by the adrenal gland.

It is contraindicated in individuals who are hypersensitive to it or any of its components. Should not be used in pregnant mother and lactating mother without physician's advice.

To be dispensed only on the prescription of a registered physician. Keep out of reach of children. Take care or consult with a physician in case of use in children and elderly people for long-term use.

Amphotericin antagonizes the activity of Miconazole.

Administration of corticosteroids to pregnant animal at high doses can cause abnormalities of fetal development. Topical steroids should not be extensively used in pregnancy.

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

Miconazole Nitrate oral gel is indicated-

• For the treatment of oral and gastrointestinal candidiasis.
• For eradication of fungal colonization in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract.
• For the treatment of super infections due to gram-positive bacteria.

Aural Anti-fungal preparations

Pharmacodynamics: Miconazole possesses an antifungal activity against the common dermatophytes and yeasts as well as an antibacterial activity against certain gram-positive bacilli and cocci. Its activity is based on the inhibition of a demethylation step in the ergosterol biosynthesis. Ergosterol, the end-product of the biosynthetic pathway and the main sterol in yeast and fungi. The disruption in production of ergosterol disrupts the fungal cell membrane, causing holes to appear in it. These holes allow the essential constituents of the fungal cells to leak out and ultimately the fungal cells die.

Pharmacokinetics: The oral bioavailability of Miconazole is low (25-30%) because there is little absorption of Miconazole from the intestinal tract. Miconazole is systemically absorbed after administration as the oral gel. Absorbed Miconazole is bound to plasma proteins (88.2%), primarily to serum albumin and red blood cells (10.6%). The absorbed portion of Miconazole oral gel is largely metabolized; less than 1% of the administered dose is excreted unchanged in the urine. The terminal plasma half-life is 20-25 hours in most patients. The elimination half-life of Miconazole is similar in any renal impaired patient.

Oropharyngeal candidosis-

• Infants 4-24 months: 1.25 ml (1⁄4 measuring spoon) of gel, applied 4 times day after meals.
• Adult and children 2 years of age and older: 2.5 ml (1⁄2 measuring spoon) of gel, applied 4 times a day after meals.

Gastrointestinal tract candidosis-

• Infants (4 months of age or above): Children and adults who have difficulty swallowing tablets: 20 mg per kg body weight per day, in four divided doses. The daily dose should not exceed 250 mg (10 ml gel) four times daily.

Missed Dose: Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. In case of next dosing time, omit the missed
dose and continue your usual course.

In case of localized lesions of the mouth, a small amount of gel may be applied 2-4 times a day directly to the affected area with a clean finger. For best results, Miconazole oral gel should be kept in contact with the affected area as long as possible. The treatment should be continued for at least a week after symptoms have disappeared. For oral candidosis, dental prosthesis should be removed at night and brushed with the gel.

Occasionally nausea and vomiting, diarrhea with long term use and rarely allergic reactions.

Miconazole is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient.

If the concomitant use of Miconazole and anticoagulant is considered, the anti-coagulant effect should be monitored and titrated. Miconazole and phenytoin plasma level should also be monitored when used concomitantly. In infants and young children, caution must be taken to ensure that the gel does not obstruct the throat.

There is no information regarding the safety of Miconazole oral gel during pregnancy. So Miconazole oral gel should be avoided in pregnant women if possible or the potential hazards should be balanced against the possible benefits. As many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Miconazole is administered to a nursing woman.

Accidental overdosage may cause vomiting and diarrhea. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. A specific antidote is not available.

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

Drugs for subcutaneous and mycoses, Drugs used in Vaginal and Vulval condition

Nystatin is an antifungal antibiotic. Which has fungistatic or fungicidal activity against variety of pathogenic and nonpathogenic yeast and fungi, including Candida albicans. Nystatin exerts its antifungal activity by binding to sterols in the fungal cell membrane. As a result of binding, the membrane is no longer able to function as a selective barrier, and potassium and other cellular constituents are lost. It is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Children:

• In intestinal and oral candidiasis (thrush): 1,00,000 units (1 ml) should be dropped into the mouth four times daily.The longer the suspension is kept in contact with the affected area in the mouth, before swallowing, the greater will be its effect.
• For prophylaxis in the newborn: The suggested dose is 1,00,000 units (1 ml) once daily or as prescribed by the physician.

Adult:

• For the treatment of intestinal or esophageal candidiasis: 5,00,000 units (5 ml) by mouth 3 or 4 times daily. The dose may be doubled, if required.
• For prophylaxis of intestinal candidiasis in adults: 10,00,000 units (10 ml) daily.
• For prophylaxis to suppress the over growth of Candida albicans in patients receiving broad spectrum antibiotic therapy: 10,00,000 units (10 ml) daily.
• For the treatment of dental sores and oral infection: 1,00,000 units (1 ml) suspension should be dropped into the mouth four times daily.

Elderly: Older people with intestinal candidiasis who are unable to swallow tablets should be given 5,00,000 units (5 ml) suspension four times daily.

Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea have occasionally been reported with high doses of Nystatin. No systemic effects or allergic reactions have been associated with its oral dose.

There is no known contraindication to the use of Nystatin.

Absorption from the gastrointestinal tract is negligible, therefore no special precaution is required to apply in pregnancy and lactation.

Absorption of Nystatin from the gastrointestinal tract is negligible, therefore no special precautions apply in pregnancy.

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

Fluconazole is indicated for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis, oropharyngeal & esophageal candidiasis and cryptococcal meningitis. It is also effective for the treatment of urinary tract infection caused by candida, peritonitis and systemic candida infections (including candidemia, disseminated candidiasis and pneumonia).

Drugs for subcutaneous and mycoses

Fluconazole is a triazole antifungal agent. It is a potent inhibitor of fungal cytochrome P-450 dependent enzymes. Cytochrome P-450 enzyme system is essential component of fungal cell membrane which is responsible for the synthesis of ergosterol.

Adult (oral)-

• Vaginal candidiasis: 150 mg as a single dose.
• Oropharyngeal candidiasis: 200 mg on the first day, followed by 100 mg once daily. Clinical evidence of this infection generally resolves within several days, but treatment should be continued for at least 2 weeks to decrease the likelihood of relapse.
• Esophageal candidiasis: 200 mg on the first day, followed by 100 mg once daily. Doses up to 400 mg/day may be used. Patients should be treated for a minimum of three weeks and for at least two weeks following resolution of symptoms.
• Systemic candida infections: Optimal therapeutic dosage and duration of therapy have not been established. Sometimes, doses of up to 400 mg daily have been used.
• Urinary tract infections caused by candida and peritonitis: 50-200 mg daily have been used.
• Cryptococcal meningitis: 400 mg on the first day, followed by 200 mg once daily.
• Prophylaxis in patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation: 400 mg once daily.

Child (oral):

• Doses of 3-6 mg/kg daily have been used. Doses up to 12 mg/kg is recommended.

Intravenous-

• Adult: Invasive candidal infections including candidaemia and disseminated candidiasis and cryptococcal infections including meningitis, by IV, 400 mg initially then 200 mg daily, increased if necessary to 400 mg daily, treatment continued according to response (at least 6-8 weeks for cryptococcal meningitis)
• Child: 6-12 mg/kg daily (every 72 hours in neonate up to 2 weeks old, every 48 hours in neonate 2-4 weeks old); maximum 400 mg daily. Prevention of relapse of cryptococcal meningitis, by IV, 100-200 mg daily.

Fluconazole is well tolerated. Most common side effects of using Fluconazole includes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, headache and skin rash.

Fluconazole should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to Fluconazole or to related triazole compounds.

Fluconazole should be administered with caution to patients having proarrhythmic conditions.

Concomitant use of cyclosporin or phenytoin with Fluconazole increases the plasma level of cyclosporin or phenytoin. Concomitant use of Fluconazole & warfarin prolongs the prothrombin time. Rifampicin level is decreased when used with Fluconazole.

US FDA Pregnancy category of Fluconazole is C. So, Fluconazole should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation unless the potential benefits to the other outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.

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

Fluconazole is indicated for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis, oropharyngeal & esophageal candidiasis and cryptococcal meningitis. It is also effective for the treatment of urinary tract infection caused by candida, peritonitis and systemic candida infections (including candidemia, disseminated candidiasis and pneumonia).

Drugs for subcutaneous and mycoses

Fluconazole is a triazole antifungal agent. It is a potent inhibitor of fungal cytochrome P-450 dependent enzymes. Cytochrome P-450 enzyme system is essential component of fungal cell membrane which is responsible for the synthesis of ergosterol.

Adult (oral)-

• Vaginal candidiasis: 150 mg as a single dose.
• Oropharyngeal candidiasis: 200 mg on the first day, followed by 100 mg once daily. Clinical evidence of this infection generally resolves within several days, but treatment should be continued for at least 2 weeks to decrease the likelihood of relapse.
• Esophageal candidiasis: 200 mg on the first day, followed by 100 mg once daily. Doses up to 400 mg/day may be used. Patients should be treated for a minimum of three weeks and for at least two weeks following resolution of symptoms.
• Systemic candida infections: Optimal therapeutic dosage and duration of therapy have not been established. Sometimes, doses of up to 400 mg daily have been used.
• Urinary tract infections caused by candida and peritonitis: 50-200 mg daily have been used.
• Cryptococcal meningitis: 400 mg on the first day, followed by 200 mg once daily.
• Prophylaxis in patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation: 400 mg once daily.

Child (oral):

• Doses of 3-6 mg/kg daily have been used. Doses up to 12 mg/kg is recommended.

Intravenous-

• Adult: Invasive candidal infections including candidaemia and disseminated candidiasis and cryptococcal infections including meningitis, by IV, 400 mg initially then 200 mg daily, increased if necessary to 400 mg daily, treatment continued according to response (at least 6-8 weeks for cryptococcal meningitis)
• Child: 6-12 mg/kg daily (every 72 hours in neonate up to 2 weeks old, every 48 hours in neonate 2-4 weeks old); maximum 400 mg daily. Prevention of relapse of cryptococcal meningitis, by IV, 100-200 mg daily.

Fluconazole is well tolerated. Most common side effects of using Fluconazole includes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, headache and skin rash.

Fluconazole should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to Fluconazole or to related triazole compounds.

Fluconazole should be administered with caution to patients having proarrhythmic conditions.

Concomitant use of cyclosporin or phenytoin with Fluconazole increases the plasma level of cyclosporin or phenytoin. Concomitant use of Fluconazole & warfarin prolongs the prothrombin time. Rifampicin level is decreased when used with Fluconazole.

US FDA Pregnancy category of Fluconazole is C. So, Fluconazole should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation unless the potential benefits to the other outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.

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

Fluconazole is indicated for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis, oropharyngeal & esophageal candidiasis and cryptococcal meningitis. It is also effective for the treatment of urinary tract infection caused by candida, peritonitis and systemic candida infections (including candidemia, disseminated candidiasis and pneumonia).

Drugs for subcutaneous and mycoses

Fluconazole is a triazole antifungal agent. It is a potent inhibitor of fungal cytochrome P-450 dependent enzymes. Cytochrome P-450 enzyme system is essential component of fungal cell membrane which is responsible for the synthesis of ergosterol.

Adult (oral)-

• Vaginal candidiasis: 150 mg as a single dose.
• Oropharyngeal candidiasis: 200 mg on the first day, followed by 100 mg once daily. Clinical evidence of this infection generally resolves within several days, but treatment should be continued for at least 2 weeks to decrease the likelihood of relapse.
• Esophageal candidiasis: 200 mg on the first day, followed by 100 mg once daily. Doses up to 400 mg/day may be used. Patients should be treated for a minimum of three weeks and for at least two weeks following resolution of symptoms.
• Systemic candida infections: Optimal therapeutic dosage and duration of therapy have not been established. Sometimes, doses of up to 400 mg daily have been used.
• Urinary tract infections caused by candida and peritonitis: 50-200 mg daily have been used.
• Cryptococcal meningitis: 400 mg on the first day, followed by 200 mg once daily.
• Prophylaxis in patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation: 400 mg once daily.

Child (oral):

• Doses of 3-6 mg/kg daily have been used. Doses up to 12 mg/kg is recommended.

Intravenous-

• Adult: Invasive candidal infections including candidaemia and disseminated candidiasis and cryptococcal infections including meningitis, by IV, 400 mg initially then 200 mg daily, increased if necessary to 400 mg daily, treatment continued according to response (at least 6-8 weeks for cryptococcal meningitis)
• Child: 6-12 mg/kg daily (every 72 hours in neonate up to 2 weeks old, every 48 hours in neonate 2-4 weeks old); maximum 400 mg daily. Prevention of relapse of cryptococcal meningitis, by IV, 100-200 mg daily.

Fluconazole is well tolerated. Most common side effects of using Fluconazole includes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, headache and skin rash.

Fluconazole should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to Fluconazole or to related triazole compounds.

Fluconazole should be administered with caution to patients having proarrhythmic conditions.

Concomitant use of cyclosporin or phenytoin with Fluconazole increases the plasma level of cyclosporin or phenytoin. Concomitant use of Fluconazole & warfarin prolongs the prothrombin time. Rifampicin level is decreased when used with Fluconazole.

US FDA Pregnancy category of Fluconazole is C. So, Fluconazole should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation unless the potential benefits to the other outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.

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

Other Antifungal preparations, Topical Antifungal preparations

Terbinafine, an Allylamine antifungal, inhibits biosynthesis of Ergosterol (an essential component of fungai cell membrane) via inhibition of Squalene Epoxidase enzyme. This results in fungal cell death primarily due to the increased membrane permeability mediated by the accumulation of high concentrations of Squalene but not due to Ergosterol deficiency. Depending on the concentration of the drug and the fungal species test in vitro, Terbinafine hydrochloride may be fungicidal. However, the clinical significance of in vitro data is unknown. Terbinafine has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms both in vitro and in clinical infections: Tricophyton Mentagrophyte, Trichophyton Rubrum.

Terbinafine tablet:

• For the treatment of fingernail onychomycosis: Terbinafine 250 mg (one tablet), once daily for 6 weeks.
• For the treatment of toenail onychomycosis: Terbinafine 250 mg (one tablet), once daily for 12 weeks.
• The optimal clinical effect is seen some months after mycological cure and cessation of treatment. This is related to the period required for the outgrowth of healthy nail.

Terbinafine granules:

• Body Weight: <25 kg: 125 mg/day up to 6 weeks
• Body Weight: 25-35 kg: 187.5 mg/day up to 6 weeks
• Body Weight: >35 kg: 250 mg/day up to 6 weeks

Terbinafine cream: Terbinafine cream can be applied once or twice daily. Cleanse and dry the affected areas thoroughly before application of the terbinafine cream. Apply the cream to the affected skin and the surrounding area in a thin layer and rub in lightly. In the case of intertriginous infections (submammary, interdigital, intergluteal, inguinal) the application may be covered with a gauze strip, especially at night. The likely durations of treatment are as follows:

• Tinea corporis, cruris: 1 to 2 weeks
• Tinea pedis: 1 week
• Cutaneous candidiasis: 2 weeks
• Pityriasis versicolor: 2 weeks

Relief of the clinical symptoms usually occurs within a few days. Irregular use or premature discontinuation of treatment carries the risk of recurrence. If there are no signs of improvement after two weeks, the diagnosis should be verified.

Terbinafine 1% Spray: This spray is applied once or twice daily, depending on the indication. The affected areas should be cleansed and dried thoroughly before application of this spray. A sufficient amount of solution should be applied to wet the treatment area(s) thoroughly.

• Tinea pedis: once a day,1 week
• Tinea corporis/cruris: once a day,1 week
• Pityriasis versicolor: twice a day, 1 week

Relief of clinical symptoms usually occurs within a few days. If there are no signs of improvement after two weeks the diagnosis should be verified.

The adverse events reported encompass gastrointestinal symptoms (including diarrhea, dyspepsia and abdominal pain), liver test abnormalities, rashes, urticaria, pruritus, and taste disturbances. In general, the adverse events were mild, transient, and did not lead to discontinuation. Adverse events, based on worldwide experience with terbinafine use, include: idiosyncratic and symptomatic hepatic injury and more rarely, cases of liver failure, some leading to death or liver transplant, serious skin reactions, severe neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, angioedema and allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis). Other adverse reactions that have been reported include malaise, fatigue, vomiting, arthralgia, myalgia, and hair loss.

Terbinafine tablet and cream are contra-indicated in individuals with hypersensitive to terbinafine.

Warnings-

• Terbinafine tablets: Rare cases of liver failure, some leading to death or liver transplant, have occurred with the use of terbinafine tablets for the treatment of onychomycosis in individuals with and without preexisting liver disease. In the majority of liver cases reported in association with terbinafine use, the patients had serious underlying systemic conditions and an uncertain causal association with terbinafine. The severity of hepatic events and/or their outcome may be worse in patients with active or chronic liver disease. Treatment with terbinafine tablets should be discontinued if there is biochemical or clinical evidence of liver injury. There have been isolated reports of serious skin reaction (e.g., Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis). If progressive skin rash occurs, treatment with terbinafine should be discontinued.
• Terbinafine cream: Terbinafine cream is for external use only. Contact with the eyes should be avoided.

Precautions: Terbinafine are not recommended for patients with chronic or active liver disease. Before prescribing Terbinafine, pre-existing liver disease should be assessed. Hepatotoxicity may occur in patients with and without pre-existing liver disease. Pretreatment serum transaminase (ALT and AST) teste are advised for all patients before taking terbinafine tablets.

In vivo studies have shown that terbinafine is an inhibitor of the CYP450 2D6 isozyme. Drugs predominantly metabolized by the CYP450 2D6 isozyme include the following drug classes: tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, beta-blockers, antiarrhythmics class 1C (e.g., flecainide and propafenone) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors Type B. Co-administration of terbinafine should be done with careful monitoring and may require a reduction in dose of the 2D6-metabolized drug.

Terbinafine tablet: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, and because treatment of onychomycosis can be postponed until after pregnancy is completed, it is recommended that terbinafine not be initiated during pregnancy. After oral administration, terbinafine is present in the breast milk of nursing mothers. Treatment with terbinafine is not recommended in nursing mothers.

Terbinafine cream: Foetal toxicity and fertility studies in animals suggest no adverse effects. There is no clinical experience with terbinafine in pregnant women; therefore, unless the potential benefits outweigh any potential risk, terbinafine should not be administered. Terbinafine is excreted in breast milk and therefore mothers should not receive terbinafine treatment whilst breast-feeding.

Pediatric use: The safety and efficacy of terbinafine have not been established in pediatric patients.

Use in the elderly: There is no evidence to suggest that elderly patients require different dosages or experience side-effects different to those of younger patients.

Clinical experience regarding overdose with terbinafine tablets is limited. Doses up to 5 gm (20 times the therapeutic daily dose) have been taken without inducing serious adverse reactions. The symptoms of overdose included nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, rash, frequent urination, and headache.

Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C, protect from light.

Other Antifungal preparations, Topical Antifungal preparations

Terbinafine, an Allylamine antifungal, inhibits biosynthesis of Ergosterol (an essential component of fungai cell membrane) via inhibition of Squalene Epoxidase enzyme. This results in fungal cell death primarily due to the increased membrane permeability mediated by the accumulation of high concentrations of Squalene but not due to Ergosterol deficiency. Depending on the concentration of the drug and the fungal species test in vitro, Terbinafine hydrochloride may be fungicidal. However, the clinical significance of in vitro data is unknown. Terbinafine has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms both in vitro and in clinical infections: Tricophyton Mentagrophyte, Trichophyton Rubrum.

Terbinafine tablet:

• For the treatment of fingernail onychomycosis: Terbinafine 250 mg (one tablet), once daily for 6 weeks.
• For the treatment of toenail onychomycosis: Terbinafine 250 mg (one tablet), once daily for 12 weeks.
• The optimal clinical effect is seen some months after mycological cure and cessation of treatment. This is related to the period required for the outgrowth of healthy nail.

Terbinafine granules:

• Body Weight: <25 kg: 125 mg/day up to 6 weeks
• Body Weight: 25-35 kg: 187.5 mg/day up to 6 weeks
• Body Weight: >35 kg: 250 mg/day up to 6 weeks

Terbinafine cream: Terbinafine cream can be applied once or twice daily. Cleanse and dry the affected areas thoroughly before application of the terbinafine cream. Apply the cream to the affected skin and the surrounding area in a thin layer and rub in lightly. In the case of intertriginous infections (submammary, interdigital, intergluteal, inguinal) the application may be covered with a gauze strip, especially at night. The likely durations of treatment are as follows:

• Tinea corporis, cruris: 1 to 2 weeks
• Tinea pedis: 1 week
• Cutaneous candidiasis: 2 weeks
• Pityriasis versicolor: 2 weeks

Relief of the clinical symptoms usually occurs within a few days. Irregular use or premature discontinuation of treatment carries the risk of recurrence. If there are no signs of improvement after two weeks, the diagnosis should be verified.

Terbinafine 1% Spray: This spray is applied once or twice daily, depending on the indication. The affected areas should be cleansed and dried thoroughly before application of this spray. A sufficient amount of solution should be applied to wet the treatment area(s) thoroughly.

• Tinea pedis: once a day,1 week
• Tinea corporis/cruris: once a day,1 week
• Pityriasis versicolor: twice a day, 1 week

Relief of clinical symptoms usually occurs within a few days. If there are no signs of improvement after two weeks the diagnosis should be verified.

The adverse events reported encompass gastrointestinal symptoms (including diarrhea, dyspepsia and abdominal pain), liver test abnormalities, rashes, urticaria, pruritus, and taste disturbances. In general, the adverse events were mild, transient, and did not lead to discontinuation. Adverse events, based on worldwide experience with terbinafine use, include: idiosyncratic and symptomatic hepatic injury and more rarely, cases of liver failure, some leading to death or liver transplant, serious skin reactions, severe neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, angioedema and allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis). Other adverse reactions that have been reported include malaise, fatigue, vomiting, arthralgia, myalgia, and hair loss.

Terbinafine tablet and cream are contra-indicated in individuals with hypersensitive to terbinafine.

Warnings-

• Terbinafine tablets: Rare cases of liver failure, some leading to death or liver transplant, have occurred with the use of terbinafine tablets for the treatment of onychomycosis in individuals with and without preexisting liver disease. In the majority of liver cases reported in association with terbinafine use, the patients had serious underlying systemic conditions and an uncertain causal association with terbinafine. The severity of hepatic events and/or their outcome may be worse in patients with active or chronic liver disease. Treatment with terbinafine tablets should be discontinued if there is biochemical or clinical evidence of liver injury. There have been isolated reports of serious skin reaction (e.g., Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis). If progressive skin rash occurs, treatment with terbinafine should be discontinued.
• Terbinafine cream: Terbinafine cream is for external use only. Contact with the eyes should be avoided.

Precautions: Terbinafine are not recommended for patients with chronic or active liver disease. Before prescribing Terbinafine, pre-existing liver disease should be assessed. Hepatotoxicity may occur in patients with and without pre-existing liver disease. Pretreatment serum transaminase (ALT and AST) teste are advised for all patients before taking terbinafine tablets.

In vivo studies have shown that terbinafine is an inhibitor of the CYP450 2D6 isozyme. Drugs predominantly metabolized by the CYP450 2D6 isozyme include the following drug classes: tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, beta-blockers, antiarrhythmics class 1C (e.g., flecainide and propafenone) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors Type B. Co-administration of terbinafine should be done with careful monitoring and may require a reduction in dose of the 2D6-metabolized drug.

Terbinafine tablet: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, and because treatment of onychomycosis can be postponed until after pregnancy is completed, it is recommended that terbinafine not be initiated during pregnancy. After oral administration, terbinafine is present in the breast milk of nursing mothers. Treatment with terbinafine is not recommended in nursing mothers.

Terbinafine cream: Foetal toxicity and fertility studies in animals suggest no adverse effects. There is no clinical experience with terbinafine in pregnant women; therefore, unless the potential benefits outweigh any potential risk, terbinafine should not be administered. Terbinafine is excreted in breast milk and therefore mothers should not receive terbinafine treatment whilst breast-feeding.

Pediatric use: The safety and efficacy of terbinafine have not been established in pediatric patients.

Use in the elderly: There is no evidence to suggest that elderly patients require different dosages or experience side-effects different to those of younger patients.

Clinical experience regarding overdose with terbinafine tablets is limited. Doses up to 5 gm (20 times the therapeutic daily dose) have been taken without inducing serious adverse reactions. The symptoms of overdose included nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, rash, frequent urination, and headache.

Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C, protect from light.

Other Antifungal preparations, Topical Antifungal preparations

Terbinafine, an Allylamine antifungal, inhibits biosynthesis of Ergosterol (an essential component of fungai cell membrane) via inhibition of Squalene Epoxidase enzyme. This results in fungal cell death primarily due to the increased membrane permeability mediated by the accumulation of high concentrations of Squalene but not due to Ergosterol deficiency. Depending on the concentration of the drug and the fungal species test in vitro, Terbinafine hydrochloride may be fungicidal. However, the clinical significance of in vitro data is unknown. Terbinafine has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms both in vitro and in clinical infections: Tricophyton Mentagrophyte, Trichophyton Rubrum.

Terbinafine tablet:

• For the treatment of fingernail onychomycosis: Terbinafine 250 mg (one tablet), once daily for 6 weeks.
• For the treatment of toenail onychomycosis: Terbinafine 250 mg (one tablet), once daily for 12 weeks.
• The optimal clinical effect is seen some months after mycological cure and cessation of treatment. This is related to the period required for the outgrowth of healthy nail.

Terbinafine granules:

• Body Weight: <25 kg: 125 mg/day up to 6 weeks
• Body Weight: 25-35 kg: 187.5 mg/day up to 6 weeks
• Body Weight: >35 kg: 250 mg/day up to 6 weeks

Terbinafine cream: Terbinafine cream can be applied once or twice daily. Cleanse and dry the affected areas thoroughly before application of the terbinafine cream. Apply the cream to the affected skin and the surrounding area in a thin layer and rub in lightly. In the case of intertriginous infections (submammary, interdigital, intergluteal, inguinal) the application may be covered with a gauze strip, especially at night. The likely durations of treatment are as follows:

• Tinea corporis, cruris: 1 to 2 weeks
• Tinea pedis: 1 week
• Cutaneous candidiasis: 2 weeks
• Pityriasis versicolor: 2 weeks

Relief of the clinical symptoms usually occurs within a few days. Irregular use or premature discontinuation of treatment carries the risk of recurrence. If there are no signs of improvement after two weeks, the diagnosis should be verified.

Terbinafine 1% Spray: This spray is applied once or twice daily, depending on the indication. The affected areas should be cleansed and dried thoroughly before application of this spray. A sufficient amount of solution should be applied to wet the treatment area(s) thoroughly.

• Tinea pedis: once a day,1 week
• Tinea corporis/cruris: once a day,1 week
• Pityriasis versicolor: twice a day, 1 week

Relief of clinical symptoms usually occurs within a few days. If there are no signs of improvement after two weeks the diagnosis should be verified.

The adverse events reported encompass gastrointestinal symptoms (including diarrhea, dyspepsia and abdominal pain), liver test abnormalities, rashes, urticaria, pruritus, and taste disturbances. In general, the adverse events were mild, transient, and did not lead to discontinuation. Adverse events, based on worldwide experience with terbinafine use, include: idiosyncratic and symptomatic hepatic injury and more rarely, cases of liver failure, some leading to death or liver transplant, serious skin reactions, severe neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, angioedema and allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis). Other adverse reactions that have been reported include malaise, fatigue, vomiting, arthralgia, myalgia, and hair loss.

Terbinafine tablet and cream are contra-indicated in individuals with hypersensitive to terbinafine.

Warnings-

• Terbinafine tablets: Rare cases of liver failure, some leading to death or liver transplant, have occurred with the use of terbinafine tablets for the treatment of onychomycosis in individuals with and without preexisting liver disease. In the majority of liver cases reported in association with terbinafine use, the patients had serious underlying systemic conditions and an uncertain causal association with terbinafine. The severity of hepatic events and/or their outcome may be worse in patients with active or chronic liver disease. Treatment with terbinafine tablets should be discontinued if there is biochemical or clinical evidence of liver injury. There have been isolated reports of serious skin reaction (e.g., Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis). If progressive skin rash occurs, treatment with terbinafine should be discontinued.
• Terbinafine cream: Terbinafine cream is for external use only. Contact with the eyes should be avoided.

Precautions: Terbinafine are not recommended for patients with chronic or active liver disease. Before prescribing Terbinafine, pre-existing liver disease should be assessed. Hepatotoxicity may occur in patients with and without pre-existing liver disease. Pretreatment serum transaminase (ALT and AST) teste are advised for all patients before taking terbinafine tablets.

In vivo studies have shown that terbinafine is an inhibitor of the CYP450 2D6 isozyme. Drugs predominantly metabolized by the CYP450 2D6 isozyme include the following drug classes: tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, beta-blockers, antiarrhythmics class 1C (e.g., flecainide and propafenone) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors Type B. Co-administration of terbinafine should be done with careful monitoring and may require a reduction in dose of the 2D6-metabolized drug.

Terbinafine tablet: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, and because treatment of onychomycosis can be postponed until after pregnancy is completed, it is recommended that terbinafine not be initiated during pregnancy. After oral administration, terbinafine is present in the breast milk of nursing mothers. Treatment with terbinafine is not recommended in nursing mothers.

Terbinafine cream: Foetal toxicity and fertility studies in animals suggest no adverse effects. There is no clinical experience with terbinafine in pregnant women; therefore, unless the potential benefits outweigh any potential risk, terbinafine should not be administered. Terbinafine is excreted in breast milk and therefore mothers should not receive terbinafine treatment whilst breast-feeding.

Pediatric use: The safety and efficacy of terbinafine have not been established in pediatric patients.

Use in the elderly: There is no evidence to suggest that elderly patients require different dosages or experience side-effects different to those of younger patients.

Clinical experience regarding overdose with terbinafine tablets is limited. Doses up to 5 gm (20 times the therapeutic daily dose) have been taken without inducing serious adverse reactions. The symptoms of overdose included nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, rash, frequent urination, and headache.

Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C, protect from light.

Other Antifungal preparations, Topical Antifungal preparations

Terbinafine, an Allylamine antifungal, inhibits biosynthesis of Ergosterol (an essential component of fungai cell membrane) via inhibition of Squalene Epoxidase enzyme. This results in fungal cell death primarily due to the increased membrane permeability mediated by the accumulation of high concentrations of Squalene but not due to Ergosterol deficiency. Depending on the concentration of the drug and the fungal species test in vitro, Terbinafine hydrochloride may be fungicidal. However, the clinical significance of in vitro data is unknown. Terbinafine has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms both in vitro and in clinical infections: Tricophyton Mentagrophyte, Trichophyton Rubrum.

Terbinafine tablet:

• For the treatment of fingernail onychomycosis: Terbinafine 250 mg (one tablet), once daily for 6 weeks.
• For the treatment of toenail onychomycosis: Terbinafine 250 mg (one tablet), once daily for 12 weeks.
• The optimal clinical effect is seen some months after mycological cure and cessation of treatment. This is related to the period required for the outgrowth of healthy nail.

Terbinafine granules:

• Body Weight: <25 kg: 125 mg/day up to 6 weeks
• Body Weight: 25-35 kg: 187.5 mg/day up to 6 weeks
• Body Weight: >35 kg: 250 mg/day up to 6 weeks

Terbinafine cream: Terbinafine cream can be applied once or twice daily. Cleanse and dry the affected areas thoroughly before application of the terbinafine cream. Apply the cream to the affected skin and the surrounding area in a thin layer and rub in lightly. In the case of intertriginous infections (submammary, interdigital, intergluteal, inguinal) the application may be covered with a gauze strip, especially at night. The likely durations of treatment are as follows:

• Tinea corporis, cruris: 1 to 2 weeks
• Tinea pedis: 1 week
• Cutaneous candidiasis: 2 weeks
• Pityriasis versicolor: 2 weeks

Relief of the clinical symptoms usually occurs within a few days. Irregular use or premature discontinuation of treatment carries the risk of recurrence. If there are no signs of improvement after two weeks, the diagnosis should be verified.

Terbinafine 1% Spray: This spray is applied once or twice daily, depending on the indication. The affected areas should be cleansed and dried thoroughly before application of this spray. A sufficient amount of solution should be applied to wet the treatment area(s) thoroughly.

• Tinea pedis: once a day,1 week
• Tinea corporis/cruris: once a day,1 week
• Pityriasis versicolor: twice a day, 1 week

Relief of clinical symptoms usually occurs within a few days. If there are no signs of improvement after two weeks the diagnosis should be verified.

The adverse events reported encompass gastrointestinal symptoms (including diarrhea, dyspepsia and abdominal pain), liver test abnormalities, rashes, urticaria, pruritus, and taste disturbances. In general, the adverse events were mild, transient, and did not lead to discontinuation. Adverse events, based on worldwide experience with terbinafine use, include: idiosyncratic and symptomatic hepatic injury and more rarely, cases of liver failure, some leading to death or liver transplant, serious skin reactions, severe neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, angioedema and allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis). Other adverse reactions that have been reported include malaise, fatigue, vomiting, arthralgia, myalgia, and hair loss.

Terbinafine tablet and cream are contra-indicated in individuals with hypersensitive to terbinafine.

Warnings-

• Terbinafine tablets: Rare cases of liver failure, some leading to death or liver transplant, have occurred with the use of terbinafine tablets for the treatment of onychomycosis in individuals with and without preexisting liver disease. In the majority of liver cases reported in association with terbinafine use, the patients had serious underlying systemic conditions and an uncertain causal association with terbinafine. The severity of hepatic events and/or their outcome may be worse in patients with active or chronic liver disease. Treatment with terbinafine tablets should be discontinued if there is biochemical or clinical evidence of liver injury. There have been isolated reports of serious skin reaction (e.g., Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis). If progressive skin rash occurs, treatment with terbinafine should be discontinued.
• Terbinafine cream: Terbinafine cream is for external use only. Contact with the eyes should be avoided.

Precautions: Terbinafine are not recommended for patients with chronic or active liver disease. Before prescribing Terbinafine, pre-existing liver disease should be assessed. Hepatotoxicity may occur in patients with and without pre-existing liver disease. Pretreatment serum transaminase (ALT and AST) teste are advised for all patients before taking terbinafine tablets.

In vivo studies have shown that terbinafine is an inhibitor of the CYP450 2D6 isozyme. Drugs predominantly metabolized by the CYP450 2D6 isozyme include the following drug classes: tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, beta-blockers, antiarrhythmics class 1C (e.g., flecainide and propafenone) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors Type B. Co-administration of terbinafine should be done with careful monitoring and may require a reduction in dose of the 2D6-metabolized drug.

Terbinafine tablet: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, and because treatment of onychomycosis can be postponed until after pregnancy is completed, it is recommended that terbinafine not be initiated during pregnancy. After oral administration, terbinafine is present in the breast milk of nursing mothers. Treatment with terbinafine is not recommended in nursing mothers.

Terbinafine cream: Foetal toxicity and fertility studies in animals suggest no adverse effects. There is no clinical experience with terbinafine in pregnant women; therefore, unless the potential benefits outweigh any potential risk, terbinafine should not be administered. Terbinafine is excreted in breast milk and therefore mothers should not receive terbinafine treatment whilst breast-feeding.

Pediatric use: The safety and efficacy of terbinafine have not been established in pediatric patients.

Use in the elderly: There is no evidence to suggest that elderly patients require different dosages or experience side-effects different to those of younger patients.

Clinical experience regarding overdose with terbinafine tablets is limited. Doses up to 5 gm (20 times the therapeutic daily dose) have been taken without inducing serious adverse reactions. The symptoms of overdose included nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, rash, frequent urination, and headache.

Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C, protect from light.

This cream is indicated in the treatment of-

• Mixed and complicated Fungal, Protozoal & Bacterial infections,
• Mild to moderate vaginitis,
• Candidiasis and trichomoniasis,
• Pruritus vulvae,
• Dermatitis,
• Eczema,
• Genito-urinary infections.

Clobetasol / Clobetasone & Combined Preparations

This cream is a combination cream which exhibits anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-protozoal & anti-inflammatory actions. Ofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that acts against many gram-positive & gram-negative bacteria. Ornidazole belongs to the nitroimidazole group of antibiotics and is used to treat amoeba and trichomonas infections. Terbinafine is an Allylamine antifungal that inhibits biosynthesis of Ergosterol (an essential components if fungal cell membrane) via inhibition of Squalene Epoxidase enzyme causing fungal cell death. Clobetasol is a potent corticosteroid which exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-pruritic and vasoconstrictive properties.

Apply by gently rubbing onto the affected area twice daily.

Burning, itching, irritation, dry skin

Contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to any of the components of the formulation.

Do not shallow. For external use only

No hazardous interactions have been reported.

The safe use of this preparation during pregnancy & lactation has not been established.

Store below 30°C. keep away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze.