Common Uses

Suprax is a cephalosporin antibiotic known for its bactericidal properties, making it effective against infections such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, acute and chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, moderate otitis, and non-severe infections of the urinary and genital tracts. It also treats gonococcal infections affecting the urethra and cervix, including gonorrhea. This broad-spectrum antibiotic targets various aerobic and anaerobic gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Suprax resists beta-lactamase enzymes and is especially effective against streptococci like S. pneumoniae, S. pyogenes, and S. agalactiae, as well as Haemophilus species such as H. influenzae and H. parainfluenzae. Other susceptible organisms include Moraxella catarrhalis, Escherichia coli, Proteus species, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Klebsiella species, Pasteurella, Providencia, Salmonella, and more.

Dosage and Directions

Suprax can be taken with or without food along with a full glass of water. When prescribed multiple times daily, doses should be spaced evenly. Taking Suprax with food may reduce stomach irritation but can slow absorption. If using the suspension form, shake well before each dose and measure accurately with the provided dosing spoon. Do not use this medication unless prescribed to you, and never share it with others, even if symptoms appear similar. Your doctor will determine the proper dose based on your health status, age, and weight.

Precautions

Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of allergies to penicillins or other cephalosporin antibiotics or if you have gastrointestinal conditions such as colitis. Patients with kidney problems may require dose adjustments. Repeated or prolonged use of Suprax should be avoided to prevent secondary infections.

Contraindications

• Known allergy to Suprax or penicillin-class antibiotics
• Infants younger than 6 months
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Caution advised for adults with kidney impairment or history of colitis

Possible Side Effects

• Severe allergic reactions such as rash, hives, itching, and swelling of the face or mouth
• Difficulty breathing
• Bloody stools
• Reduced urination
• Fever, redness, swelling, blistering, or peeling of the skin
• Seizures
• Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Vaginal itching or white patches in the mouth
• Jaundice

Drug Interactions

Probenecid (Benemid) can increase Suprax blood levels by reducing its kidney elimination. Combining Suprax with aminoglycosides like tobramycin (Tobradex) may enhance bacterial killing but also increase the risk of kidney damage. Exenatide (Byetta) can delay or reduce Suprax absorption; cephalosporins should be taken at least one hour before exenatide. Carbamazepine levels may rise when taken with Suprax. Additionally, Suprax can cause false positive results on urine tests for ketones and glucose.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Suprax, take it as soon as you remember. For once-daily dosing, the next dose should be taken 10 to 12 hours later. If the medication is prescribed multiple times a day, take the missed dose promptly, then the next dose according to the usual schedule (5-6 hours for twice daily or 2-4 hours for thrice daily). Do not double doses.

Overdose

If you experience severe allergic symptoms, blood in the urine, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or upper abdominal pain after an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Storage

Store Suprax at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date. Prepared suspension should be refrigerated and used within 14 days; do not freeze it and discard any leftover after this period.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is general and does not cover every possible use, precaution, or drug interaction. It is not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for advice specific to your medical condition. We are not liable for any damages resulting from use of this information or self-treatment.