UTICHEK SR 100MG 10

About

UTICHEK SR 100MG contains Nitrofurantoin, an antibiotic specifically used for the treatment and prevention of uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs). The "SR" indicates a sustained-release formulation, which allows for less frequent dosing and potentially improved patient compliance. Nitrofurantoin works by interfering with bacterial enzyme systems, inhibiting various metabolic processes within the bacterial cell, including DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis, as well as cell wall formation. This broad-spectrum activity is primarily effective against common Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria responsible for UTIs, such as E. coli. Its mechanism of action is unique, making it less prone to resistance development compared to some other antibiotics, and it concentrates effectively in the urine, targeting the infection site directly.

The sustained-release formulation ensures a prolonged therapeutic concentration in the urine, which is crucial for eradicating the infection. Nitrofurantoin is particularly useful for lower urinary tract infections and is often a first-line agent due to its efficacy and favorable resistance profile. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence and the development of antibiotic resistance. Patients should be aware of potential side effects, especially those related to the lungs and liver, though these are rare.

Uses

• Treatment of acute uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections.
• Effective against susceptible strains of E. coli.
• Used in cases where other antibiotics are not suitable.

Directions For Use

Take one capsule orally every 12 hours with food, or as directed by your physician. Swallow whole; do not crush or chew.

Benefits

• Effective against common UTI pathogens.
• Low resistance rates compared to other antibiotics.
• Sustained-release formulation for convenient dosing.
• Concentrates well in the urinary tract.
• Can be used for long-term prophylaxis.
• Generally well-tolerated.

Side Effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Dark yellow or brown urine
• Peripheral neuropathy (rare, with prolonged use)
• Pulmonary reactions (rare, acute or chronic)
• Hepatotoxicity (rare)
• Hemolytic anemia (in G6PD deficient patients)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects and potentially affect liver function.
• Pregnancy - Consult a doctor. Generally avoided in the third trimester due to risk of hemolytic anemia in the newborn. Use in earlier trimesters should be carefully weighed.
• Breastfeeding - Consult a doctor. Nitrofurantoin is excreted in breast milk. Avoid in infants under one month old or those with G6PD deficiency due to risk of hemolytic anemia.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with a history of liver disease. Rare cases of hepatotoxicity have been reported; monitor liver function if prolonged use.
• Kidney - Contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl < 60 mL/min) due to reduced efficacy and increased risk of toxicity, especially peripheral neuropathy.
• Lung - Use with extreme caution in patients with pre-existing lung conditions. Nitrofurantoin can cause acute or chronic pulmonary reactions, which can be severe.

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