Topcef tablets 200mg contain contain cefixime, a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a range of bacterial infections, including, respiratory and urinary tract infections, also infections of the ear and skin.

Topcef general information

What is Topcef used for?

Topcef tablets 200mg are a broad spectrum antibiotic used to treat common infections caused by a variety of bacteria in different parts of the body. These include upper and lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis and pharyngitis; ear infections (otitis media); bacterial sinusitis; urinary tract infections, including cystitis and kidney infection (pyelonephritis).

How does Topcef work?

Topcef tablets 200mg contain cefixime, which is a semi-synthetic, third generation cephalosporin antibiotic, belonging to a sub group of the beta lactam group of antibiotics (which include penicillins). Cefixime in Topcef tablets 200mg inhibits the synthesis of the peptidoglycan layer of the bacterial cell wall, which is important for the structural integrity of the cell wall. Blocking formation of the bacterial cell wall in susceptible bacteria kills the bacteria. Unlike other beta lactam antibiotics like penicillins, cephalosporins are less susceptible to destruction by beta-lactamase found in some resistant bacteria. Topcef tablets 200mg are effective against a wide range of common bacteria found in general practice and in hospitals including: Streptococci, Staphylococci (including penicillinase-producing strains and non-resistant strains); Haemophilus influenzae; Klebsiella pneumonia, Escherichia coli, among others.

What does Topcef contain?

Topcef tablets 200mg contain the active ingredient cefixime, a semi-synthetic, third generation cephalosporin antibiotic that is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections.

Treating bacterial infection with Topcef

Topcef tablets 200mg contain cefixime, a cephalosporin antibiotic belonging to a sub group of the beta lactam group of antibiotics (which include penicillins). Unlike other beta lactam antibiotics like penicillins, cephalosporins are less susceptible to destruction by beta-lactamase found in some resistant bacteria. Topcef tablets 200mg is effective for a wide range of bacterial infections, including, upper and lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis and pharyngitis; ear infections (otitis media); bacterial sinusitis; genitourinary tract infections, including cystitis and kidney infection. Cefixime in Topcef tablets 200mg works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall in susceptible bacteria, which kills the bacteria.

What are the side effects of Topcef?

The most commonly reported side effects when taking Topcef tablets 200mg include gastrointestinal upset, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, skin rash, urticaria (hives), genital and anal pruritis (itching).
What is an allergic reaction to antibiotics like Topcef?
Some people are allergic to penicillin-like antibiotics and may develop a hypersensitivity reaction, which can be a mild to severe skin reaction, with symptoms like rash, itching, blotchy red patches, hives (urticaria), dermatitis. A more serious reaction may give you symptoms like swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body, shortness of breath, wheezing or trouble breathing.

When should Topcef not be used?

You should not use Topcef tablets 200mg if you:

• are allergic to cefixime or any other beta-lactams antibiotic, including penicillins or any ingredients in Topcef
• are pregnant
• are breastfeeding without discussion with your doctor
• have kidney disease without discussion with your doctor
• have a history of gastrointestinal disease particularly pseudomembranous colitis
• are taking medicines that interact with Topcef, including anticoagulants like warfarin and probenecid for gout.

How should Topcef be taken?

You should take your Topcef tablets 200mg swallowed whole with a glass of water, with or without food. The dose you take and how often, depends on what you are being treated for and your doctor’s recommendation, which may be 1-2 tablets once or twice a day, usually for up to 7-14 days, depending on the infection. Always finish your course of tablets even if you feel better, if not, the infection may not clear up completely or your symptoms may return.

How long should you take Topcef?

You should complete the course of Topcef tablets 200mg as prescribed by your doctor, usually for up to 7-14 days, depending on what you are being treated for. Always finish your course of tablets even if you feel better, if not, the infection may not clear up completely or your symptoms may return.

Missed dose of Topcef

If you miss a dose of Topcef tablets 200mg take it as soon as you remember, unless it is time to take the next dose, then skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose.

How should Topcef be stored?

You should store your Topcef below 25°C in a cool dry place.