Fosfomycin: functions, dosage, side effects, how to use

What Drug Fosfomycin?

What is fosfomycin for?

This drug is an antibiotic that is useful for treating bladder infections (for example, acute cystitis or lower urinary tract infection) in women. This drug works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Fosfomycin should not be used to treat infections other than the bladder (for example, kidney infections such as pyelonephritis or perinephric abscess).

These antibiotics only treat bacterial infections and will not work on viral infections (eg flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of the drug.

How is fosfomycin used?

Use only 1 package (sachet). This is a one-dose treatment. Always mix this drug with water. Pour the contents of 1 package (sachet) into at least half a glass of water (4 ounces or 120 ml) of cold water and stir. Do not use warm or hot water. Drink the mixture immediately. This medicine can be taken before or after meals.

Symptoms should improve within 2-3 days of using the drug. If symptoms do not improve or get worse, contact your doctor immediately.

How is fosfomycin stored?

This medication is best stored at room temperature, away from direct light and damp places. Don't keep it in the bathroom. Don't freeze it. Other brands of this drug may have different storage rules. Observe the storage instructions on the product package or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medicines down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Discard this product when it has expired or when it is no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company about how to safely dispose of your product.

Rules of Use for Fosfomycin

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What is the dosage for fosfomycin for adults?

Usual adult dosage for cystitis

3 g (1 sachet) orally once in one dose

Usual adult dose for transurethral prostatectomy

3 g (1 sachet) orally in the evening before and after the procedure.

What is the dosage for fosfomycin for children?

Safety and efficacy have not been confirmed in patients younger than 12 years; only permitted for women 18 years of age or older.

In what dosage is fosfomycin available?

Fosfomycin is available in packaged form, orally: 3 g

Fosfomycin dosage

What side effects can be experienced due to fosfomycin?

Get emergency medical help if you experience signs of an allergic reaction: itching; difficulty breathing; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less common side effects that may occur more frequently include:

• diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain
• headache
• dizzy
• sluggish
• runny nose, sore throat
• menstrual pain
• back pain
• vaginal itching or discharge

Not everyone experiences this side effect. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you want to know about side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Fosfomycin side effects

What should be known before using fosfomycin?

Before using fosfomycin:

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to fosfomycin or any other medications.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist about any prescription and nonprescription drugs you are currently using, especially cisapride (Propulsid), metoclopramide (Reglan), and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had asthma or liver disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you became pregnant before using fosfomycin, contact your doctor.

Is fosfomycin safe for pregnant and lactating women?

There are no adequate studies regarding the risks of using this drug in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Always consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using this medication. This drug is included in the risk of pregnancy category B according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The following references the pregnancy risk categories according to the FDA:

A = No risk, B = not at risk in several studies,

C = May be risky, D = There is positive evidence of risk, X = Contraindicated, N = Unknown

Fosfomycin Drug Warnings and Cautions

What medicines may interact with fosfomycin?

Although certain drugs should not be used simultaneously, in other cases two different types of drugs may be used simultaneously although interactions may occur. In this case, the doctor may want to change the dose, or other warnings may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are on any prescription or over the counter medicine.

Can food or alcohol interact with fosfomycin?

Certain drugs cannot be used with meals or when eating certain foods because drug interactions can occur. Consuming alcohol or tobacco with certain drugs can also cause interactions to occur. Talk to your healthcare professional about using your medication with food, alcohol, or cigarettes.

What health conditions can interact with fosfomycin?

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of the drug. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• diarrhea - use with caution. It might worsen this condition.
• kidney disease - use with caution. The effects may increase due to the slower disposal of the drug from the body.

Fosfomycin Drug Interactions

What should I do in an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or overdose, contact the local emergency services provider (112) or immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, when it is nearing the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the usual dosing schedule. Do not double up on a dose to make up for a missed dose.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.