Fosfomycin

Fosfomycin is a type of antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is used to treat infections of the urinary tract caused by certain bacteria like E. coli. It can also be used to treat skin and eye infections caused by certain bacteria.

Uses For

Fosfomycin is used for the treatment of susceptible bacterial infections including urinary tract infections (UTI), including acute uncomplicated cystitis in women caused by Escherichia coli, proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. It is also used for the treatment of skin and soft tissue infections caused by certain susceptible organisms.

Brand Name	Fosfomycin
Type
Weight
Generic	Fosfomycin
Manufacturer
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Fosfomycin works by aparticially creating enzymes in the infected bacteria cell which are used as part of the bacteria’s normal metabolic process. In the above case, the enzyme allows the bacteria to form cell wall components needed for growth. Inhibition of this process results in bacterial cell death and therefore helps to clear the infection.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Fosfomycin usually starts to work within 12 to 24 hours and patients may start feeling better after a few days of taking the medication. However, it is important to take the full course of antibiotics as instructed, even if the patient feels better in order to give the medication enough time to work and to prevent the infection from coming back.

Absorption

Fosfomycin is rapidly and completely absorbed after intramuscular and oral administration. Intramuscular doses administered as an aqueous suspension of 1 g have produced serum concentrations of the drug which were three to five times higher than those obtained following oral therapy.

Route of Elimination

Fosfomycin is eliminated mainly by renal excretion, through both glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. It is also known to be metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes.

Dosage

For adult patients, the recommended intravenous dose is 1.5 g, three times daily.
For adult patients, the recommended intramuscular dose is 1 g three times daily.
For pediatric patients, the recommended intravenous dose is 40 mg/kg/day given in three divided doses.
For pediatric patients, the recommended intramuscular dose is 30 mg/kg/day given in three divided doses.

Administration

Fosfomycin may be administered orally, intravenously or intramuscularly depending on the type of infection. It should be taken with food or a full glass of water to help reduce stomach irritation. If administered intravenously, it should be given slowly over at least 15 minutes.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Fosfomycin include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, stomatitis, headache, rash, and dizziness. These are usually mild and temporary and do not require medical attention. Some serious side effects of Fosfomycin include severe allergic reactions, liver toxicity, and anaphylaxis. Seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects are experienced.

Toxicity

Fosfomycin is generally well tolerated when taken as prescribed. However, excessive use or overdose may lead to acute renal failure. Symptoms of acute toxicity include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, confusion, respiratory depression, and seizures may occur.

Precaution

Before taking Fosfomycin , patients should tell their doctor if they have, or have ever had, any of the following conditions: kidney disease, liver disease, allergies to other antibiotics, or if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interaction

Fosfomycin can interact with other medications, including antibiotics, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Therefore it is important to inform the doctor of any other medications that the patient may be taking before beginning a course of Fosfomycin . Patients should also avoided alcohol while taking this medication.

Disease Interaction

Fosfomycin is known to interact with certain diseases, such as kidney and liver disease. Patients with these conditions should consult with a doctor before taking Fosfomycin as the medication may worsen certain symptoms. Additionally, patients with a history of allergy or asthma should be aware that Fosfomycin may cause allergic reactions.

Drug Interaction

Fosfomycin may interact with certain drugs, so it is important to inform the doctor of any other medications the patient is taking before taking this medication. Fosfomycin may interact with antibiotics, antacids, quinolones, tetracyclines, birth control pills, and other drugs.

Food Interaction

Fosfomycin may interact with certain foods, such as dairy, chocolate, and other foods high in fat or calcium. These foods can reduce the effectiveness of the medication, so it is important to avoid them while taking Fosfomycin .

Pregnancy Use

Fosfomycin is classified as a pregnancy category B drug, meaning that it is not expected to be harmful when taken during pregnancy. However, it is important to always consult a doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy, even if it is not expected to be harmful.

Lactation Use

Fosfomycin has not been studied in breastfeeding women and should be avoided by women who are breastfeeding. It is important to speak with a doctor before taking Fosfomycin while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

Symptoms of Fosfomycin overdose include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, seizures, confusion, and respiratory depression may occur. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Contraindication

Fosfomycin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to it or any of its components. It should also be avoided in patients with renal impairment and in patients with a history of allergic reactions to other antibiotics.

Use Direction

Fosfomycin should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. It should be taken with food or a full glass of water and should not be taken with alcohol. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if the patient feels better, in order to give the medication enough time to work and to prevent the infection from coming back.

Storage Conditions

Fosfomycin should be stored in a tight, light-resistant container at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets.