Generic Vantin

Vantin, which can be generically prescribed as cefpodoxime, is commonly used to treat bacterial infections in the body. Vantin is a member of the family of antibiotics known as cephalosporins. Vantin is ineffective on infections caused by fungi or viruses. While not restricted to common uses, the common uses included using Vantin to fight ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, sinus infections, tonsillitis, urinary tract infections, bronchitis, and gonorrhea.

Vantin is not appropriate for every patient and should not be prescribed indiscriminately. Thorough medical evaluations allow the physician to be assured the patient is an appropriate candidate for the medication. Patients with a medical history which includes kidney disease or gastrointestinal disorders such as colitis may not be able to take Vantin, or may require careful monitoring while undergoing drug therapy with Vantin, dependant upon the condition and the severity of the condition.

The American Food and Drug Administration determined Vantin falls into a category B pregnancy risk. Vantin is not anticipated to harm a developing fetus although it has been proven to pass through the mother’s breast milk and cause harm to a nursing infant. Women who are nursing should not take Vantin. Women who are pregnant must weigh whether the benefits are greater than the risks before taking Vantin.

Side effects are common when taking Vantin, although a small percentage of patients may experience serious side effects or allergic reactions. An allergic reaction requires immediate medical attention and presents with facial swelling, difficulty breathing, and hives. Other serious side effects which require immediate medical attention include symptoms like redness, rash significant itching, severe nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, unusual bleeding or unexplained bruising, or mucous or blood in the stools.

Most patient complaints are of more mild side effects, which do not require immediate medical attention but should be reported. Mild side effects may include yeast infections which may be either vaginal or in the mouth, mild nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.

Patients who miss a dose of Vantin should be instructed to take the dose when remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, in which case the missed Vantin dose should be skipped. If the patient takes the missed dose, the remaining doses for the day should be evenly spaced. Double dosing should only be done if determined appropriate by a physician. Taking too much medication may lead to an overdose, which would need immediate medical attention. Overdoses tend to present with symptoms like abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

There is a risk of drug interactions associated with the use of Vantin, and patients should always check with a pharmacist or physician before adding any new medications, including prescription, over the counter, herbal, or vitamin, to their daily medications. Even one dose can interact. Medications with known interactions to Vantin include loop diuretics, probenecid, blood thinners such as Warfarin, and additional antibiotics. Antacids and Vantin should not be taken at the same time as this can make Vantin less effective.

Patients should take Vantin for the entire duration that the prescription has been written for despite the fact that their symptoms may begin to dissipate. Stopping the medication too early can lead to a return of the infection, often more stubborn and more difficult to treat. This medication is only considered up to date for 14 days after the prescription has been filled. Old medication (medication that is older than 14 days) should be properly discarded.