Caricef Side Effects

Caricef is an antibiotic medication commonly used to treat various bacterial infections, particularly those affecting the respiratory and urinary tract. While it is generally considered safe and effective, like all medications, Caricef can have side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some people may experience them to a greater degree than others.

Gastrointestinal Disturbances

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain or discomfort

Allergic Reactions

• Rash
• Itching
• Swelling, particularly of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
• Hives (urticaria)
• Headache
• Dizziness

Changes in Blood Tests

• Increased liver enzymes (usually reversible after discontinuing the medication)
• Rarely, is a decrease in white blood cell count (leukopenia) or platelet count (thrombocytopenia)

Pseudomembranous Colitis

• This is a potentially severe side effect that can occur with any antibiotic. It involves inflammation of the colon and can lead to severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.

Superinfections

• Caricef, like other antibiotics, can sometimes lead to the development of secondary infections caused by other bacteria or fungi that are not affected by the medication.

Kidney and Liver Problems

• In rare cases, Caricef can cause kidney or liver dysfunction, which may manifest as changes in urine output, dark urine, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).

Caricef is one of the leading brands of Cefixime, manufactured and marketed by Sami Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.

Presently, Caricef is available in Tablets, Capsules, and Syrup forms

Caricef Tablets : 200mg, and 400mg strengths

Caricef Capsules : 400mg strength

Caricef Syrup : 100mg/5ml strength

Caricef DS Syrup : 200mg/5ml strength

Antacids, Calcium, and Magnesium Supplements:

• Antacids containing aluminum, magnesium, or calcium can reduce the absorption of Caricef. It’s advisable to separate the administration of these products from Caricef by at least 2 hours.

Probenecid:

• Probenecid is a medication used to treat gout. It can slow down the excretion of Cefixime from the body, potentially leading to higher Cefixime levels in the bloodstream. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dose of Caricef if you are taking probenecid.

Warfarin and Other Blood Thinners:

• Caricef may increase the effects of anticoagulants like warfarin, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of your blood clotting parameters may be necessary if you are taking both Caricef and a blood thinner.

Aminoglycoside Antibiotics:

• Combining Caricef with certain aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin) may increase the risk of kidney damage. Your healthcare provider will carefully monitor your kidney function if you require both types of antibiotics.

Other Antibiotics:

• Caricef should be used with caution when taken in combination with other antibiotics that can potentially increase the risk of side effects or interactions. Your healthcare provider will consider the specific circumstances and select the appropriate antibiotics if multiple agents are required.

Drugs That Affect Kidney Function:

• Some medications that affect kidney function, such as diuretics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may interact with Caricef. These interactions can increase the risk of kidney problems.

Oral Contraceptives:

• There is a theoretical risk that Caricef may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives (birth control pills). It’s recommended to use an additional method of contraception while taking Caricef and for a few days after finishing the course of treatment.

Methotrexate:

• Caricef may increase the blood levels of methotrexate, a medication used to treat certain medical conditions, including cancer and autoimmune diseases. This can increase the risk of methotrexate-related side effects.