Suprax® FAQ's Frequently Asked Questions about Suprax®

This information is meant for answering some frequently asked questions about Suprax®. It does not contain a complete list of all the risks or benefits of taking Suprax®. Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more comprehensive information.

What is Suprax®?

Suprax® (pronounced Su-pracks) is a medication belonging to a class of antibiotics called Cephalosporins. The active ingredient in Suprax® is Cefixime.

What is an antibiotic?

An antibiotic is a medicine used to treat infections caused by bacteria.

What infections can Suprax® treat?

Suprax® can be used to treat certain infections of the throat, middle ear, airways, urinary and genital systems caused by susceptible strains of certain bacteria.

Why has the doctor chosen Suprax® to treat my child’s infection?

Suprax® may have been selected by your doctor because in his/her judgment Suprax® provides good coverage against the bacteria that may be causing your child’s infection.

What should I tell the doctor before giving or taking Suprax®?

Before giving Suprax® to your child or taking the medicine yourself, tell your doctor and pharmacist if any of the following apply to the patient:

If they are allergic or sensitive to penicillin, cephalosporins or any other drugs. If they have any kidney problems. If they are pregnant or breast feeding. If the patient is under 6 months of age. If they are receiving anticoagulant, carbamazepine or warfarin. Always tell your doctor about any other medicine they are taking whether prescription or over-the-counter.

Special precautions apply for these conditions. Your health care professional will be able to guide you appropriately.

In what forms is Suprax® available?

Suprax® is available as an oral suspension and in tablet formulation.

Can I use tablets instead of suspension?

Tablets may be used for any indication except otitis media, in which only the oral suspension has been evaluated.

How should I take or give Suprax®?

Your doctor will prescribe the amount and duration of Suprax® treatment. The amount of Suprax® you need to take will depend on your condition. The pharmacist label will tell you or your child exactly how much to take. The usual dosage is 8mg/kg/day of the suspension. This may be administered as a single dose or divided into two equal doses. If the patient is elderly or has kidney problems, the doctor may reduce the dose. For the oral suspension, you must shake the bottle well before use and make sure the bottle is tightly closed after use. Do not dilute any of the suspension after the suspension has been reconstituted by the pharmacist.

How should I store Suprax®?

Your suspension should be stored in the pack in which you are given it at 68-77oF. Do not freeze. Keep your suspension in a safe place, out of reach of children. Do not keep suspension after 14 days of first opening, or if your doctor decides to stop treatment.

For how many days do I need Suprax® treatment?

Suprax® has been chosen by your doctor for its ability to fight the bacteria that cause infections. To work properly, Suprax® must be taken exactly as your doctor has directed and for the full number of days. Always give the recommended dose at the proper time. Don’t stop the antibiotics too soon or use leftovers from previous prescription.

What are the side effects of Suprax®?

Suprax® is usually well tolerated. The most common side effects of Suprax® oral suspension are gastrointestinal (diarrhea, loose stools, nausea and abdominal pain). Suprax® may rarely cause an allergic reaction (trouble breathing, rash, swelling) or severe diarrhea. If this happens it can be serious, so stop the medicine and call your doctor immediately. Your healthcare professional can provide you with the complete prescribing information. A comprehensive list of these side effects is available in the package insert.

Will Suprax® treat viral infections like common cold and flu?

Suprax® does not kill viruses, so it is not appropriate for viral infections like common cold or flu.

What if I miss a dose of Suprax®?

Give the dose as soon as you remember, then try to space the next dose evenly. Do not try to “catch-up” with the missed dose.

What if my child or I take too much medicine?

If you or your child accidentally take too much medicine or a child under 6 months swallows any medicine, contact your doctor immediately.

When should I call my doctor?

Call you doctor if the symptoms of your child’s infection are not responding or getting worse with the treatment. Also call your doctor if your child develops an allergic reaction, severe diarrhea or any other reaction that your doctor may not have told you about.