Why is this medication prescribed?

Pediazole is a medication that combines two active ingredients: erythromycin and sulfisoxazole. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of certain bacterial infections in pediatric patients. Erythromycin is an antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of bacteria, while sulfisoxazole is a sulfonamide antibiotic that also inhibits bacterial growth.

Pediazole is commonly used to treat respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis, as well as other infections like otitis media (middle ear infection) and pertussis (whooping cough) caused by susceptible bacteria.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines for using Pediazole:

• Dosage: Take Pediazole exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The dosage will depend on factors such as the specific infection, the patient’s age, weight, and overall health.
• Formulation: Pediazole is usually available in oral suspension (liquid) form. Shake the bottle well before measuring the dose to ensure an even distribution of the medication.
• Administration: Take Pediazole with a full glass of water. It is often recommended to take it with food or milk to minimize the risk of stomach upset.
• Schedule: Follow the prescribed schedule strictly. Take the medication at evenly spaced intervals to maintain a constant level in the body.
• Complete the Course: Even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished, it’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment. Stopping antibiotics prematurely can lead to incomplete eradication of the infection and potential antibiotic resistance.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Allergies and Side Effects: Be aware of any signs of allergic reactions or side effects. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.

It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about any allergies, other medications you are taking, and any history of liver or kidney problems before starting Pediazole. Additionally, if you have questions or concerns about the medication or its use, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Pediazole is primarily prescribed for bacterial infections, especially respiratory tract infections in pediatric patients. While it’s important to note that the use of this medication should be based on a healthcare professional’s assessment of the specific infection and its susceptibility to Pediazole’s components, there are instances where antibiotics may be used off-label for certain conditions. However, any such use should be under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions when using Pediazole, it’s crucial to consider the following:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies to erythromycin, sulfisoxazole, or any other medications. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Medical history: Provide a comprehensive medical history, especially regarding liver or kidney problems, blood disorders, and any history of gastrointestinal issues such as colitis.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Notify your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Pediazole should be used with caution during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
• Drug interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as Pediazole can interact with certain drugs. This includes anticoagulants (blood thinners), oral contraceptives, and other medications.
• Liver function monitoring: Pediazole can affect liver function, so regular monitoring may be necessary, especially in patients with pre-existing liver conditions. If signs of liver dysfunction, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), occur, seek medical attention promptly.
• Kidney function monitoring: Individuals with impaired kidney function may need dose adjustments or additional monitoring when taking Pediazole.
• Photosensitivity: Erythromycin, one of the components of Pediazole, may make some people more sensitive to sunlight. It’s advisable to use sun protection and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight during treatment.

Always take Pediazole exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not self-prescribe or adjust the dosage without consulting your doctor. If you experience any adverse effects or have concerns about the medication, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

This information provides general guidelines, and specific precautions may vary based on individual health conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and information tailored to your specific situation.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Dietary Instructions for Pediazole:

• Take with Food or Milk: To minimize stomach upset, take Pediazole with food or milk unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid Certain Foods or Beverages: Some antibiotics may interact with certain foods or beverages. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding any dietary restrictions.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Pediazole, follow these general guidelines:

• Take the Missed Dose as Soon as Possible: If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule.
• Do Not Double Up: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking extra doses can increase the risk of side effects and is not recommended.
• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If you have questions about missed doses or if you are unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Pediazole, a combination medication containing erythromycin and sulfisoxazole, can cause various side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and the severity can vary from person to person. If you are prescribed Pediazole, your healthcare provider will weigh the potential benefits against the risks based on your individual health profile. Common side effects of Pediazole include:

• Gastrointestinal Disturbances:
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
• Allergic Reactions:
  • Rash
  • Itching
  • Swelling, particularly of the face, lips, or tongue
  • Severe dizziness
  • Difficulty breathing
• Hematologic Side Effects:
  • Blood disorders (e.g., anemia, thrombocytopenia)
  • Increased risk of bleeding
• Liver Function Abnormalities:
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
  • Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver)
• Kidney Function Abnormalities:
  • Changes in urinary frequency or volume
  • Blood in the urine
• Photosensitivity:
  • Increased sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburn more easily
• Central Nervous System Effects:
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
• Clostridium difficile-associated Diarrhea: Prolonged use of Pediazole can lead to an overgrowth of Clostridium difficile bacteria, causing severe diarrhea.

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, contact your healthcare provider if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction or if you develop symptoms like jaundice, persistent nausea or vomiting, or unusual bleeding or bruising.

This list is not exhaustive, and individual reactions may vary. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, report any unusual symptoms, and attend any recommended follow-up appointments for monitoring. If you have concerns about the side effects of Pediazole, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Pediazole:

• Storage:
  • Store Pediazole at room temperature away from light and moisture.
  • Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
  • Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or on the medication label.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired medication properly. Do not flush it down the toilet unless instructed to do so.
  • Check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for guidance on medication disposal. Some communities have specific programs or guidelines for safe disposal of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of emergency or overdose:
  • Contact your local poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the United States) or emergency room immediately.
  • If someone collapses or has difficulty breathing after taking Pediazole, call emergency services right away.
• Symptoms of overdose may include:
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion

What other information should I know?

• Follow Instructions: Take Pediazole exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
• Complete the Course: Finish the entire course of treatment even if symptoms improve before completion. Stopping antibiotics prematurely can lead to incomplete eradication of the infection.
• Follow-up: Attend any follow-up appointments as scheduled by your healthcare provider. They may want to monitor your progress and check for any potential side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Keep your healthcare provider informed about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Allergies: Be aware of any signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Sun Protection: If Pediazole makes you more sensitive to sunlight, take precautions such as using sunscreen and avoiding prolonged sun exposure.
• Regular Monitoring: If your healthcare provider has advised regular monitoring of liver or kidney function, follow their recommendations.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for specific guidance based on your individual health condition and any additional instructions they may provide. If you have questions or concerns about Pediazole, it’s important to discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.