Medicef

Medicef Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Medicef is a brand name. Its generic name is Cefradine.

Introduction

Medicef is an antibiotic drug commonly used for treatment of infections caused by bacteria. It is a first-generation cephalosporin and belongs to the class of cephalosporins. It is a semi-synthetic antibiotic, which means that it has been made in a laboratory from natural substances.

Uses for

Medicef is used to treat a variety of infections, including but not limited to respiratory infections, skin infections, chest infections, urinary tract infections, and some sexually transmitted diseases.

Mechanism of Action

Medicef works by inhibiting the bacteria's ability to make proteins which are an important part of its structure, function, and multiplication. By inhibiting this process, cefradine is able to kill the bacteria and prevent it from multiplying.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Medicef usually starts to work within a few hours of taking the medication. However, depending on the type of infection being treated, it can take up to several days before the symptoms start to clear up.

Absorption

Medicef is mostly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with the exception of the dose taken rectally. The majority of an oral dose is absorbed within 3 hours, with peak plasma concentrations occurring after 4-6 hours.

Route of Elimination

Medicef is eliminated largely from the urine as the unchanged form. Some is also excreted in the feces via biliary excretion. The half-life is in the range of 1-2 hours.

Dosage

Medicef is available in the form of tablets, capsules, and soluble tablets. The usual adult dosage ranges from 500mg to 1000mg twice daily, depending on the severity of the infection being treated.

Administration

Medicef should be taken orally with a glass of water, preferably one hour before or two hours after meals, or as directed by the healthcare provider. It is important not to take cefradine with food as this interferes with absorption. For rectal administration, the dose should be dissolved in a small amount of water.

Side Effect

Common side effects of cefradine include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, skin rash, oral thrush, and vaginal itching. More serious side effects include anemia, jaundice, fever, and seizures.

Toxicity

Medicef is generally safe and well tolerated at the recommended dosage. Overdose can lead to symptoms such as renal failure, seizures, and blood disorders.

Precautions

Medicef should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease, and in those taking other medications such as anticoagulants, oral contraceptives, and diuretics. It should also be used with caution in pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Interactions

Medicef may interact with other drugs and should not be taken in combination with other antibiotics, sedatives, or anticoagulants. It also interacts with some herbs and supplements, including ginkgo biloba, garlic, and St. John's Wort.

Disease Interaction

Medicef has been known to interact with certain diseases, including kidney and liver disease, which may affect its effectiveness or cause side effects. It may also interact with other diseases, such as diabetes, which can alter its metabolism and increase its potential for side effects.

Drug Interactions

Medicef may interact with other drugs including anticoagulants, oral contraceptives, and diuretics. Taking cefradine simultaneously with these drugs may increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, cefradine may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with other drugs that increase blood clotting time.

Food Interactions

Medicef should be taken one hour before or two hours after meals. Taking it simultaneously with food may reduce its effectiveness. It should also not be taken with dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, as this may reduce its absorption rate.

Pregnancy Use

Medicef should be used with caution in pregnant women. There is limited evidence regarding the safety of cefradine during pregnancy. If used, the lowest effective dosage should be used for the shortest duration possible.

Lactation Use

Medicef should be avoided during lactation as it is excreted in breast milk. If it must be used, the lowest effective dosage should be used for the shortest duration possible.

Acute Overdose

If an overdose is suspected, the patient should be taken to the doctor or hospital immediately. Symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness, convulsions, and sweating.

Contraindication

Medicef is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or penicillins. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment, and in those who have had a previous episode of either anaphylactic or anaphylactoid reactions.

Use Direction

Medicef should always be taken as prescribed by the doctor. The dosing frequency and duration of treatment should not be altered without consulting the healthcare provider.

Storage Condition

Medicef should be stored at room temperature in a closed container, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

Medicef has a volume of distribution of 0.3-0.6 L/kg indicating a low penetration into tissues.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of cefradine is in the range of 1-2 hours.

Clearance

Medicef is mainly eliminated by the kidneys with an average clearance of 250mL/min.

Here you find in details version of Medicef

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Medicef

What is Medicef?

Medicef is a type of antibiotic medicine that is used to treat bacterial infections.

How does Medicef work?

Medicef works by preventing bacteria from forming cell walls, which are necessary for the bacteria to survive and grow.

What type of infections can Medicef treat?

Medicef is used to treat bacterial infections such as skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and respiratory tract infections.

Who should not take Medicef?

Medicef should not be taken by people who are allergic to cephalosporin antibiotics. People with kidney, liver, or intestinal disease should consult a doctor before taking this medicine.

What are the possible side effects of Medicef?

The most common side effects of Medicef are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, and headache.

Is Medicef safe to take during pregnancy?

Medicef is generally considered safe to take during pregnancy, however it is recommended that pregnant women should consult their doctor before taking it.

What should I do if I experience any side effects from Medicef?

If you experience any side effects, you should stop taking the medication and consult your doctor immediately.

How and when should I take Medicef?

Medicef should be taken with food or a full glass of water/milk. The amount and duration of treatment will depend on the type and severity of your infection.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Medicef?

If you miss a dose of Medicef, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule.

Is it safe to consume alcohol while taking Medicef?

It is not recommended to consume alcohol while taking Medicef as it may increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, and reduced alertness.

Can I take other medicines while taking Medicef?

Some medicines may interact with Medicef and it is recommended to consult your doctor before taking any other medication.

Can Medicef be used for children?

Medicef can be used for children but it is important to consult a doctor before giving this medicine to a child.

Are there any foods I should avoid while taking Medicef?

No, you do not need to avoid any specific foods while taking Medicef.

How long does it take for Medicef to work?

It may take up to 2 weeks for Medicef to work and start relieving symptoms.

Can I stop taking Medicef once I start to feel better?

No, it is important to continue taking Medicef until you have finished the course of medication prescribed by your doctor.

What should I do if I am taking Medicef and experience a fever?

If you experience a fever while taking Medicef, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Does Medicef interact with birth control pills?

Yes, Medicef may interact with birth control pills. It is recommended to consult your doctor for advice.

Does Medicef interact with other antibiotics?

Yes, some antibiotics may interact with Medicef. It is recommended to consult your doctor for advice before taking any other medication.

Should I take Medicef with food or on an empty stomach?

Medicef should be taken with food or a full glass of water/milk.

Can Medicef be used to treat a sore throat?

Yes, Medicef is used to treat sore throat caused by bacterial infections.

Can I take Medicef to prevent an infection?

No, Medicef should not be taken as a preventative measure against infections.

Is Medicef affected by hot weather?

No, Medicef is not affected by hot weather.

Can Medicef be taken with vitamin supplements?

Yes, Medicef can be taken with vitamin supplements, however it is recommended to consult your doctor before taking any additional supplements.

What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Medicef?

If you experience an allergic reaction to Medicef, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately.

Can I take Medicef with antacids?

Yes, Medicef can be taken with antacids, however it is recommended to consult your doctor for advice.

Can I take Medicef if I am breastfeeding?

It is not recommended to take Medicef while breastfeeding, however it is recommended to consult your doctor for advice.

Can I take Medicef while menstruating?

Yes, you can take Medicef while menstruating.

What should I do if I experience nausea after taking Medicef?

If you experience nausea after taking Medicef, it is recommended to consult your doctor for advice.

Can Medicef interact with other medications?

Yes, some medications may interact with Medicef and it is recommended to consult your doctor before taking any other medication.

What should I do if I experience vomiting after taking Medicef?

If you experience vomiting after taking Medicef, it is recommended to consult your doctor for advice.

Can I take Medicef if I am diabetic?

Yes, Medicef can be taken if you are diabetic, however it is recommended to consult your doctor for advice.

Can I take Medicef if I have a kidney condition?

Yes, Medicef can be taken if you have a kidney condition, however it is recommended to consult your doctor for advice.

Can I take Medicef if I have a liver condition?

Yes, Medicef can be taken if you have a liver condition, however it is recommended to consult your doctor for advice.

Is there any age restriction for taking Medicef?

No, there is no age restriction for taking Medicef, however it is recommended to consult your doctor for advice.

Can Medicef cause dizziness?

Yes, Medicef can cause dizziness, and it is recommended to consult your doctor if you experience this symptom.

Can Medicef cause drowsiness?

Yes, Medicef can cause drowsiness, and it is recommended to consult your doctor if you experience this symptom.

Can Medicef cause dehydration?

Yes, Medicef can cause dehydration, and it is recommended to consult your doctor if you experience this symptom.

Can Medicef cause reduced alertness?

Yes, Medicef can cause reduced alertness, and it is recommended to consult your doctor if you experience this symptom.

Can Medicef cause a burning sensation?

Yes, Medicef can cause a burning sensation, and it is recommended to consult your doctor if you experience this symptom.

Can Medicef cause headaches?

Yes, Medicef can cause headaches, and it is recommended to consult your doctor if you experience this symptom.

Can Medicef cause stomach cramps?

Yes, Medicef can cause stomach cramps, and it is recommended to consult your doctor if you experience this symptom.