Sometimes, regular medications are not enough to control severe bacterial infections in our bodies. At such times, a special, powerful injection called Lefamulin is used by doctors. Since this is a drug given through a vein, let's talk about it in a little more detail. The brand name of this drug may be `(Xenleta Solution)`.
What is this medicine used for?
Simply put, Lefamulin is an antibiotic . This means that this medicine can kill bacteria that enter our bodies and cause disease. Doctors use it to treat some serious bacterial infections that are difficult to control with other antibiotics.
Remember one very important thing. This medicine only works on bacteria. It will not cure common colds, flu, and coughs caused by viruses .
Things you should tell your doctor before taking medication
Before giving you this medicine, your doctor will want to know your complete health history. Therefore, if you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor .
| Your situation | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| If you have an irregular heartbeat | This medicine can sometimes affect the heart rate, so this information is very important. |
| Kidney disease | If the kidneys are not working properly, the way the medicine is removed from the body may be affected. |
| Liver disease | This medicine is processed in the body by the liver. It is important to be aware of any liver problems. |
| Allergies to Lefamulin or other medicines, foods, or dyes | If you have an allergy to something, this is essential to prevent a severe allergic reaction. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | This is very important. This medicine can harm the baby in the womb. |
| If the baby is breastfed | The doctor will decide whether the medicine can pass to the baby through breast milk. |
How do you use this medicine?
This medicine is given by infusion into a vein. This is usually done by medical staff in a hospital or clinic. However, in some cases, you may be taught how to give this injection at home.
If you are taking this medicine at home, you will be given proper training on how to prepare and inject it. Take the medicine exactly as directed, at the right time. Do not stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to. Even if you feel better, it is important to complete the prescribed number of days to completely cure the infection.
Disposal of needles and syringes
If you are getting vaccinated at home, never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They should be placed in a special container called a ``sharps container.'' If you don't have one, ask your doctor about how to get one.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken an overdose, go to a hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
What do you do if you miss a dose of medicine?
- If you are receiving medication at a hospital/clinic: If you are unable to attend at the scheduled time, be sure to call the medical staff and let them know.
- If you are taking your medicine at home: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose. If you have any questions about this, ask your doctor.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
It is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (medicines for other conditions, vitamins, traditional medicines, supplements) because some medications can interact with Lefamulin.
| Medicines that should not be taken with this medicine | |
|---|---|
| Dronedarone | Pimozide |
| Thioridazine | |
| Be careful as problems can occur with these medications. | |
| Alprazolam | Diltiazem |
| Estrogen or progestin hormones | Ketoconazole |
| Other drugs that alter heart rate | Rifampin |
| Simvastatin | Vardenafil |
| Verapamil | |
This list is not complete. So tell your doctor about everything you take. Also tell him if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Pay attention to symptoms: If your symptoms don't improve, or if they seem to be getting worse, tell your doctor.
- Diarrhea: You may experience diarrhea while taking this medicine. However, if it lasts for more than two days or becomes severe, such as watery diarrhea, do not take the medicine from the pharmacy and call your doctor immediately.
- Pregnancy and birth control: If you are planning to become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away. Getting pregnant while taking this medicine and for up to 2 days after stopping it can cause serious birth defects. Also, this medicine may make hormonal birth control methods (such as birth control pills) less effective. Therefore, it is recommended that you use a barrier method of birth control, such as a condom . Talk to your doctor about this for more information.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. Some of them are serious, some of them are common.
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately. | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Changes in heart rate | Feeling like your heart is beating fast, chest pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing. |
| Severe diarrhea | If your stomach is watery with a fever. |
| Vaginal changes | Unusual discharge, itching, or odor. |
| These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Normal bowel movements | Headache |
| Nausea | Difficulty falling asleep |
| Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site | |
Other side effects not listed in this list may occur. If you experience anything unusual, consult your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Lefamulin is a powerful antibiotic used to treat severe bacterial infections.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other illnesses, allergies, and all medications you are taking.
- Even if you feel well, take the full amount of medicine prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop halfway.
- If you experience any severe allergic symptoms, changes in heart rate, or severe diarrhea, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is essential to tell your doctor before taking this medicine.
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