Topocef

Indications

Cefditoren is a cephalosporin antibiotic taken by mouth. It is used to treat mild to moderate bacterial infections, including throat infections (pharyngitis and tonsillitis), sinus infections, flare-ups of chronic bronchitis, community-acquired pneumonia and uncomplicated skin infections. It does not work against viral infections such as colds or flu.

How It Works

Cefditoren stops bacteria from building their cell walls by binding to penicillin-binding proteins. Without a strong wall the bacteria burst and die. It is stable against many beta-lactamase enzymes that some bacteria use to resist antibiotics.

Dosage and Administration

• Throat, sinus and skin infections: usually 200 mg twice a day for 10 days.
• Flare-ups of chronic bronchitis: usually 400 mg twice a day for 10 days.
• Pneumonia: usually 400 mg twice a day for 14 days.

Take with food, as this helps absorption. Complete the full course even if you feel better. People with kidney problems may need a lower dose. Not recommended for children under 12 years.

Interactions

Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium and acid-reducing medicines such as Famotidine or Ranitidine lower its absorption; avoid taking them at the same time. Probenecid increases Cefditoren levels. Antibiotics may rarely affect the action of Warfarin, so blood tests may need checking.

Contraindications

Do not take if you are allergic to cephalosporins, or if you have had a severe allergic reaction to Penicillin. Do not use in people with carnitine deficiency or inherited conditions that cause it, or in people allergic to milk protein (casein), as tablets contain sodium caseinate.

Side Effects

• Diarrhoea and nausea
• Headache
• Stomach pain and indigestion
• Vaginal thrush (yeast infection)

Get urgent medical help if you have severe or bloody diarrhoea (which can occur even weeks after finishing the course), a rash with blistering or peeling skin, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

There is limited information on use in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use only if a doctor considers it clearly needed.

Precautions and Warnings

Long courses can lower carnitine levels in the body; it is meant for short-term use only. Tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, or a history of bowel problems such as colitis. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases bacterial resistance.

Overdose

Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhoea, and in people with kidney problems, fits. Seek medical help.

Therapeutic Class

Antibiotic, third-generation cephalosporin.

Storage

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