| name | Roxithromycin |
| classification | Macrolide antibiotic |
| pharmacokinetics | Roxithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that is well absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within 1-2 hours. The drug is extensively metabolized in the liver, with approximately 50-60% of the dose excreted in the urine. The half-life varies depending on the formulation (e.g., immediate-release vs. sustained-release). |
| suggested dosage | The dosage of roxithromycin varies depending on the specific indication and the patient's condition. A general guideline for adults is 150 mg twice daily or 300 mg once daily, but this should be determined and monitored by a healthcare professional. |
| indications | Roxithromycin is used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia), skin and soft tissue infections, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). |
| safety in pregnancy | Roxithromycin is generally considered to be a category B drug, meaning animal studies have not shown a risk to the fetus, but there are limited data on human use during pregnancy. It's important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks, and consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Roxithromycin is excreted in breast milk. While generally considered safe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using roxithromycin if breastfeeding. |
| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) | | 2 | Headache | | 3 | Abdominal pain | | 4 | Constipation | | 5 | Dizziness | | 6 | Vertigo | | 7 | Hepatic dysfunction (rare) | | 8 | Rash, itching | | 9 | Phototoxicity (increased sensitivity to sunlight) |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity or allergy to macrolides or other components of the medication. | | 2 | Severe hepatic or renal impairment. |
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| interactions | | 1 | Drugs that are metabolized by the liver (e.g., certain statins, oral contraceptives, warfarin). | | 2 | Antacids (reduce absorption) | | 3 | Drugs that can increase the risk of QT prolongation (e.g., certain antiarrhythmics, some antidepressants). | | 4 | Drugs that inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor liver function tests, especially in patients with a history of liver problems. | | 2 | Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity reactions like rash, itching, or difficulty breathing | | 3 | Use caution in patients with a history of QT interval prolongation or other cardiac conditions. | | 4 | Possible interaction with oral contraceptives. Patients on birth control should be advised of the possible need to use a backup method or a different birth control method. |
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| additional informations | | 1 | Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients with impaired renal or hepatic function. | | 2 | Roxithromycin can cause prolongation of the QT interval, which is a measure of the electrical activity of the heart. This is a concern in patients with certain heart conditions or those who are taking other drugs that also prolong the QT interval. | | 3 | Roxithromycin should be taken with food to improve absorption. | | 4 | Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking. |
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