Tenafet

Indications

Cefetamet pivoxil is an antibiotic taken by mouth. It is used to treat bacterial infections such as throat and tonsil infections (pharyngitis and tonsillitis), middle ear infection (otitis media), sinusitis, bronchitis and some cases of pneumonia, and uncomplicated or complicated urinary tract infections. It may also be used for uncomplicated gonorrhoea. It does not work against colds, flu or other viral infections.

How It Works

Cefetamet pivoxil is a prodrug: after it is absorbed, the body turns it into active cefetamet, a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. Cefetamet stops bacteria from building their cell walls, so the bacteria burst and die.

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children over 12 years: the usual dose is 500 mg twice daily, taken with or within 1 hour of a meal, for the number of days your doctor prescribes (often 7 to 10 days). For uncomplicated gonorrhoea a single dose may be prescribed. Children's doses are based on body weight and should be given as prescribed. People with reduced kidney function may need a lower dose. Complete the full course even if you feel better.

Interactions

• Probenecid can raise cefetamet levels.
• Antibiotics can reduce the effect of the oral typhoid vaccine.
• With Warfarin or other blood thinners, bleeding tests may need closer checking.
• Long courses of pivoxil antibiotics together with Valproic Acid or Pivmecillinam can lower carnitine levels further.

Contraindications

Do not take if you are allergic to cefetamet, other cephalosporins, or have had a serious allergic reaction (such as anaphylaxis) to Penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics. Avoid in people with carnitine deficiency.

Side Effects

• Diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort
• Skin rash or itching
• Headache, tiredness
• Vaginal thrush (yeast infection)
• Mild changes in liver tests or blood counts

Get urgent medical help if you have swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, a blistering or peeling rash, or severe, watery or bloody diarrhoea during or after treatment.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Cephalosporins are generally considered among the safer antibiotics in pregnancy, but information on cefetamet is limited, so use only if your doctor advises it. Small amounts may pass into breast milk; your doctor will decide whether it is suitable while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

Tell your doctor about any past allergy to antibiotics, kidney disease or bowel problems such as colitis. Long-term use of pivoxil-containing antibiotics can lower carnitine in the body, especially in young children, so it should not be used for longer than prescribed. Use antibiotics only for bacterial infections to help prevent resistance.

Overdose

Too much may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach upset or diarrhoea. Seek medical advice.

Therapeutic Class

Third-generation oral cephalosporin antibiotic.

Storage

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