Indications

Furoclav is a combination antibiotic indicated for the treatment of various infections caused by susceptible bacteria. These include:

• Upper and Lower Respiratory Tract Infections: Such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, acute bacterial otitis media, acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis, pneumonia, and chronic or acute bronchitis.
• Skin and Skin-Structure Infections: Uncomplicated infections.
• Urinary Tract Infections: Uncomplicated infections.
• Other Infections: Bone and joint infections, uncomplicated gonorrhea, early Lyme disease, septicemia, and meningitis. It is also used for "switch therapy," transitioning from an injectable to an oral antibiotic.

Pharmacology

Furoclav combines two active ingredients: Cefuroxime and Clavulanic acid.

• Cefuroxime: A second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that is bactericidal. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
• Clavulanic acid: A beta-lactamase inhibitor. It binds to and inactivates beta-lactamase enzymes produced by bacteria, which would otherwise degrade Cefuroxime. This combination makes the drug effective against bacteria that have developed resistance to other beta-lactam antibiotics.

Dosage & Administration

• Adolescents and Adults ($\ge$ 13 years):
  • Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis, Sinusitis, UTI: 250 mg twice daily.
  • Bronchitis, Pneumonia, Skin infections: 250-500 mg twice daily.
  • Gonorrhea: 1000 mg as a single dose.
  • Lyme disease: 500 mg twice daily for 20 days.
• Pediatric Patients (3 months - 12 years): Doses are weight-based.
  • Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis: 20 mg/kg/day, twice daily.
  • Otitis Media, Sinusitis, Impetigo: 30 mg/kg/day, twice daily. The tablet can be taken with or without food.

Interaction

• Probenecid: Co-administration increases the blood concentration of Cefuroxime.
• Gastric Acidity Reducers: May lower the bioavailability of Cefuroxime.

Contraindications

Furoclav is contraindicated in patients with:

• Known allergy to cephalosporins.
• Pseudomembranous colitis.

Side Effects

Furoclav is generally well-tolerated. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. Prolonged use may lead to the overgrowth of non-susceptible microorganisms. Rarely, side effects such as renal dysfunction, anaphylaxis, angioedema, rash, and urticaria have been reported.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: While all antibiotics should be avoided in the first trimester if possible, Furoclav can be safely used in later pregnancy.
• Lactation: It is excreted in breast milk in small quantities. The possibility of sensitizing the infant should be considered.

Precautions & Warnings

• Administer with care to patients taking potent diuretics.
• Use with caution in patients with a history of colitis.

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool, dry place (below 30°C), away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.