Roxcin

Indications

Roxithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. It treats bacterial infections of the throat, tonsils, sinuses and ears, chest infections such as bronchitis and some pneumonias, skin and soft tissue infections, and some genital infections not caused by gonorrhoea. It does not work against colds, flu or other virus infections.

How It Works

Roxithromycin attaches to the part of the bacterial cell that makes proteins (the ribosome) and stops it working. Without new proteins the bacteria cannot grow and multiply, and the body's defences clear the infection.

Dosage and Administration

The usual adult dose is 150 mg twice a day or 300 mg once a day, taken at least 15 minutes before a meal (on an empty stomach), usually for 5 to 10 days or as prescribed. Older people with severe liver problems may need a lower dose. Children's doses are based on body weight and should be given as prescribed. Finish the full course even if you feel better.

Interactions

Do not take with Ergotamine or Dihydroergotamine (risk of severe narrowing of blood vessels). Avoid or use with care with medicines that affect heart rhythm such as Amiodarone, Sotalol, Cisapride, Pimozide and some antipsychotics. It may raise levels of Theophylline, Digoxin, Midazolam and Cyclosporine, and may increase the effect of Warfarin. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take.

Contraindications

• Allergy to roxithromycin, erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics
• Use with Ergotamine or Dihydroergotamine
• Known long QT interval (a heart rhythm problem)

Side Effects

Common effects include nausea, stomach pain, diarrhoea, indigestion, headache, dizziness and skin rash. Taste changes can occur.

Get urgent medical help for swelling of the face or throat or trouble breathing, a severe skin rash with blisters, fainting or a racing or irregular heartbeat, yellow skin or eyes, or severe or bloody diarrhoea during or after treatment.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Safety in pregnancy is not fully established; use only if your doctor thinks it is needed. Small amounts pass into breast milk; ask your doctor before using it while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

Use with care in liver disease, heart rhythm problems, low potassium or magnesium, and myasthenia gravis. Long use can lead to fungal infections such as thrush.

Overdose

Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, and possibly heart rhythm changes. Seek medical help.

Therapeutic Class

Macrolide antibiotic

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.