Septazole 100 ml Syrup

Medication Name: Septazole 100 ml Syrup (Co-trimoxazole Suspension)

Active Ingredient:

• Trimethoprim 40 mg / 5 ml
• Sulfamethoxazole 200 mg / 5 ml(Concentration usually: 40 mg Trimethoprim and 200 mg Sulfamethoxazole per 5 ml teaspoonful)

Pharmacologic Class: Combination antibacterial agent (Sulfonamide and Diaminopyrimidine)

Indications:

• Treatment and prophylaxis of Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia (PJP), especially in children and immunocompromised patients.
• Acute otitis media (ear infection) in children.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.
• Certain gastrointestinal infections, such as Shigellosis.

Dosage and Administration:

• Dosage: Varies significantly based on the child’s age, weight, and the type of infection being treated (e.g., standard infection vs.² PJP prophylaxis).

   

  • General Guide (for standard infections): Usually based on ³$8$–⁴$12 \text{ mg/kg}$ of Trimethoprim component per day, given in two divided doses.⁵

     

  • Children (2 months and older): The dose is calculated by the physician based on body weight.⁶

     

• Administration:
  • Shake the bottle well before each use.
  • Use a calibrated measuring spoon or syringe provided with the package for accurate dosing.
  • The syrup is typically given twice daily (every 12 hours).⁷

     

  • Can be taken with food to reduce the chance of stomach upset.
  • Ensure the patient drinks plenty of fluids.
  • Complete the full prescribed course of treatment.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity (allergy) to Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole, or any excipients in the syrup.
• Known allergy to sulfonamide medicines.
• Severe liver disease or severe renal failure (where blood concentration monitoring is not feasible).
• Documented megaloblastic anemia due to folate deficiency.
• Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency (risk of hemolysis).
• Infants less than 6 weeks of age (risk of kernicterus in newborns).

Precautions:

• Blood Disorders: Monitor blood counts closely, especially during prolonged treatment, in the elderly, or in patients with pre-existing folate deficiency.
• Severe Skin Reactions: Instruct parents/patients to seek immediate medical attention if a rash, sore throat, or fever develops.
• Renal Function: Adjust dose in patients with impaired kidney function. Ensure adequate hydration to prevent crystallization in the urine.
• Hyperkalemia: May increase potassium levels. Use cautiously with other drugs that increase potassium.
• Drug Interactions: Consult a doctor if the patient is taking Methotrexate, Warfarin, or certain diuretics.
• Photosensitivity: Patients should avoid direct, excessive sun exposure.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite.
• Diarrhea.
• Skin rash (requires immediate medical assessment).
• Change in taste.

Serious Side Effects (rare):

• Severe allergic reactions (Anaphylaxis, severe swelling).
• Life-threatening skin reactions (SJS, TEN).
• Hematological toxicity (severe drops in red or white blood cells or platelets).
• Liver damage (Jaundice).
• Signs of kidney problems (change in urination).