Davox

Description

Davox 500mg Capsules contain cefadroxil, a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used in Pakistan to treat bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, and skin. It kills or stops bacterial growth, effective against gram-positive (e.g., Streptococcus) and some gram-negative bacteria (e.g., E. coli), but not for viral infections like flu. Common in areas with high infection rates like Karachi or rural Punjab, it’s produced by Fynk Pharma, available in packs of 12 capsules (2×6), priced around Rs. 81-90, prescription-only, and distributed through DRAP-registered pharmacies.

How It Functions

Cefadroxil binds to penicillin-binding proteins, inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis by disrupting peptidoglycan cross-linking, leading to cell lysis. Chemically, it’s (6R,7R)-7-[[(2R)-2-amino-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acetyl]amino]-3-methyl-8-oxo-5-thia-1-azabicyclo[4.2.0]oct-2-ene-2-carboxylic acid monohydrate. Effective against susceptible bacteria, it reaches peak plasma levels in 1-2 hours, lasting 6-12 hours, allowing once or twice daily dosing.

Dosage Information

Adults: 500mg-1g every 12-24 hours, typically 500mg twice daily for respiratory or skin infections, or 1g once daily for urinary tract infections; take with or without food, swallow whole with water. Children: 25-50mg/kg/day in 1-2 divided doses (e.g., 500mg daily for a 20kg child). Treatment duration is 7-14 days; complete full course to prevent resistance. Adjust for kidney impairment; consult physician for severe cases or if symptoms persist.

Side Effects

• Very Common (>1 in 10): Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea).
• Common (up to 1 in 10): Rash, itching, vomiting, stomach pain.
• Rare: Hypersensitivity reactions (hives, swelling, breathing difficulty), pseudomembranous colitis, hemolytic anemia, furry tongue, fever.

Drug Interactions

Cefadroxil may interact with:

• Probenecid: Increases cefadroxil levels, risking toxicity.
• Warfarin: Enhances bleeding risk.
• Loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide): Increases kidney strain.
• Oral contraceptives: May reduce efficacy; use additional contraception.

Indications

Approved for treating bacterial infections of:

• Respiratory tract (e.g., pharyngitis, pneumonia).
• Urinary tract (e.g., cystitis).
• Skin and soft tissue (e.g., impetigo, cellulitis).

When Not to Use

Avoid in:

• Hypersensitivity to cefadroxil, cephalosporins, or penicillins.
• History of severe allergic reactions to beta-lactam antibiotics.
• Severe kidney failure without dose adjustment.

Precautions

• Monitor for allergic reactions; stop if rash or swelling occurs.
• Use cautiously in kidney impairment; adjust dose based on creatinine clearance.
• Watch for severe diarrhea; may indicate pseudomembranous colitis—stop and seek care.
• Complete course to prevent resistance, a concern in Pakistan’s overmedicated regions.
• Ensure hydration, especially in hot weather or fasting, to support kidney function.
• Buy from DRAP-registered pharmacies; check holograms to avoid counterfeits.

Warnings

• Hypersensitivity: Risk of anaphylaxis; immediate care needed for swelling or breathing issues.
• Colitis: Severe or bloody diarrhea requires stopping and evaluation.
• Antibiotic resistance: Avoid use without confirmed bacterial infection.
• Kidney function: Monitor in renal disease to avoid toxicity.
• Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Use only if benefits outweigh risks; consult physician.

Additional Notes

• Pregnancy Category: Consult physician; category B, generally safe but use if essential.
• Breastfeeding: Minimal excretion in milk; monitor infant for diarrhea or rash.
• Availability: Common in urban and rural pharmacies; generics like Duricef available.
• Stability: Stable at room temperature; discard expired capsules.
• Reporting: Log batch for side effects; report to DRAP for quality control.

Doctor Review

Dr. Tariq Mehmood, an infectious disease specialist in Islamabad, notes Davox’s reliability for skin and urinary tract infections, especially in outpatient settings across Pakistan. DRAP data supports its efficacy against common pathogens, but Dr. Mehmood stresses completing the course and monitoring for allergies to prevent resistance.

Disclaimer

This is general product information, not a prescription or medical advice. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for personal guidance.