Flucamox (Amoxicillin & Flucloxacillin)

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Antibiotics must be prescribed by a doctor. Always complete the full course of treatment as directed to prevent the development of resistance.

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Flucamox (Amoxicillin & Flucloxacillin): A Guide to the Combination Antibiotic

Manufacturer: SEDICO (South Egypt Drug Industries Co.), Egypt

Category: Broad-Spectrum Penicillin Combination

Active Ingredients:

• Amoxicillin (as trihydrate or sodium)
• Flucloxacillin (as sodium)

This combination is available in various strengths and forms, including capsules, powder for suspension, and vials for injection.

Available Forms:

• Capsules: Available in 250 mg (125mg Amoxicillin / 125mg Flucloxacillin) and 500 mg (250mg Amoxicillin / 250mg Flucloxacillin) strengths.
• Tablets (1000 mg): A high-dose tablet containing 500 mg of Amoxicillin and 500 mg of Flucloxacillin is also available under the brand name Floxamo® (by Amoun Pharmaceutical Co.).
• Powder for Oral Suspension: 250 mg per 5 ml (125mg Amoxicillin / 125mg Flucloxacillin).
• Vials for IM/IV Injection: Available in 500 mg (250mg/250mg) and 1000 mg (500mg/500mg) strengths.

Summary

Flucamox is a powerful, broad-spectrum antibiotic that combines two semi-synthetic penicillins: Amoxicillin and Flucloxacillin. This dual-ingredient formula is designed to effectively treat a wide range of bacterial infections by overcoming a common form of antibiotic resistance. It is available in oral forms (capsules, suspension) for common infections and as an injection for more severe cases.

Mechanism of Action: The Power of Two Penicillins

Flucamox's effectiveness comes from its two active ingredients that work together to provide a wider range of bacterial coverage:

1. Amoxicillin: A well-known broad-spectrum antibiotic that is effective against many Gram-positive (e.g., *Streptococcus*) and Gram-negative bacteria. It works by inhibiting the formation of the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell death.
2. Flucloxacillin: A penicillinase-resistant penicillin. Its crucial role is to target bacteria, particularly *Staphylococcus* species, that produce an enzyme called penicillinase. This enzyme normally destroys other penicillins like Amoxicillin, but Flucloxacillin is stable in its presence and can effectively kill these resistant bacteria.

By combining both, Flucamox can treat mixed infections and infections where penicillin-resistant Staphylococci are suspected.

Therapeutic Indications: When to Use Flucamox

Flucamox is indicated for a wide variety of bacterial infections, including:

• Respiratory Tract Infections: Pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis.
• ENT Infections: Sinusitis, otitis media (middle ear infection), pharyngitis, tonsillitis.
• Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: Cellulitis, boils, carbuncles, abscesses, and infected wounds.
• Genitourinary Tract Infections: Cystitis, pyelonephritis (kidney infection), and puerperal sepsis.
• Bone Infections: Osteomyelitis.
• Systemic Infections: Septicemia.
• Gastrointestinal Infections: Enteritis, bacillary dysentery, typhoid and paratyphoid fever.

Dosage and Administration

Dosage depends on the severity of the infection and the patient's age. It should be determined by a physician.

• Oral (Capsules/Suspension):
  • Adults: 250 mg to 1000 mg every 6-8 hours. Should be taken one hour before meals for optimal absorption.
  • Children: The dose is adjusted based on age and weight, typically using the pediatric suspension.
• Parenteral (IM/IV Injection): For severe infections.
  • Adults: 500 mg to 1000 mg every 6-8 hours.
  • Children (2-12 years): Half (1/2) of the adult dose.
  • Children (1 month - 2 years): A quarter (1/4) of the adult dose.

Vials must be reconstituted with water for injection immediately before use as per the pamphlet's instructions.

Contraindications and Side Effects

• Contraindications: Flucamox is strictly contraindicated in patients with a known history of hypersensitivity (allergy) to penicillin.
• Side Effects: Like other penicillins, potential side effects may include allergic reactions (such as skin rash), indigestion, or diarrhea. If a skin rash develops, you should stop the medication and consult your doctor immediately.
• Overdose Warning: The pamphlet explicitly warns that convulsions may occur in cases of overdosage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is Flucamox a combination of two antibiotics?

It combines Amoxicillin for broad coverage and Flucloxacillin to specifically target penicillin-resistant Staph bacteria. This makes it a powerful choice for infections where the exact bacteria is unknown or a mixed infection is suspected.

Why should the oral forms be taken before meals?

While Amoxicillin's absorption is not significantly affected by food, the overall absorption of the combination, particularly Flucloxacillin, is better on an empty stomach. Taking it one hour before meals ensures maximum effectiveness.

What is the difference between the capsules and the vials?

Capsules and suspension are for oral use to treat mild to moderate infections. Vials are for intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV) injection and are reserved for more severe, systemic, or hospital-treated infections where higher and faster drug concentrations are needed.

Sources

1. Co-fluampicil (Amoxicillin/Flucloxacillin) Information - Drugs.com
2. Clinical outlook for amoxycillin/flucloxacillin - NCBI
3. Official Product Leaflet for Flucamox.