Description
Indications
Cefzil is a prescription medicine used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, such as infections of the skin, ears, sinuses, throat, tonsils, and more. It can also be used to treat bronchitis, which is the infection of the airway tubes leading to the lungs.
Cefzil belongs to the class of cephalosporin antibiotics, which works by stopping the growth of bacteria. It is intended for bacterial infections only and will not work against viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
Excessive or improper use of this medicine can result in antibiotic resistance, reducing the efficacy of the drug for future bacterial infections.
Uses and Dosage
Before starting treatment with Cefzil and with each refill, carefully read the medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the medication, including its risks and benefits.
Cefzil is typically administered twice daily at evenly spaced times without regard to food. Dosage and length of intake may vary per individual, considering factors such as the type of infection being treated, age, weight, medical history, concomitant medications, and response to treatment.
It is recommended to ingest Ceftin tablets whole without crushing or chewing. Oral suspension can be administered for children and individuals with difficulty swallowing tablets. Shake the suspension well before each use to mix the medication evenly and measure the dose carefully with a medical spoon/cup.
For best results, take this antibiotic regularly at set times each day. Finish the entire prescribed course, even if you improve before it ends. Stopping treatment too early may allow bacteria to persist, increasing the risk of recurrent infection.
Side Effects
Adverse reactions associated with Cefzil treatment are listed below. In the event of persistent or worsening symptoms, seek the advice of a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Dizziness
Serious Side Effects
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin
- Severe stomach or abdominal pain
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Dark urine
- Indicators of kidney problems (such as changes in urine output)
- Indicators of new infections (such as fever, persistent sore throat)
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Changes in mental or emotional state (such as confusion)
If any of the above-mentioned serious symptoms arise, promptly seek medical attention.
Allergic Reactions
Cefzil may rarely cause a severe allergic reaction; however, get medical help immediately if any of the following occurs:
- Rash
- Itching or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Severe dizziness
- Trouble breathing
The side effects of Cefzil stated above are not the complete list. Should you experience any additional adverse effects, seek consultation with your healthcare provider or a competent pharmaceutical expert for proper assessment and management.
Caution
Prior to taking Cefzil, inform your healthcare provider about all allergies you have, especially to cefprozil, penicillin, or other cephalosporin antibiotics such as cephalexin. This medication contains inactive ingredients that may elicit allergic reactions or lead to other adverse effects.
To mitigate the risk of drug interactions, inform your doctor of all medications you are currently consuming, including prescription/nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products.
Your physician may necessitate adjustments to your medication regimen or enhanced monitoring for potential side effects if you are utilizing any of the drugs listed hereunder:
- Amikacin
- Diuretics (‘water pills’)
- Gentamicin
- Kanamycin
- Neomycin (Neo-Fradin)
- Probenecid (Probalan)
- Streptomycin
- Tobramycin
Disclose your medical history to your doctor, especially of: kidney disease and intestinal disease (colitis).
Before undergoing any immunizations or vaccinations, inform the healthcare provider that you are taking Cefzil, for this antibiotic can diminish the efficacy of live bacterial vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine.
Pregnant women should discuss the risk and benefits of Cefzil with their healthcare provider and should only be administered when needed.
Lactating women should consult their doctors before nursing an infant, for cefprozil passes into the breastmilk.