Seromycin
Seromycin is the brand name for a medication called Cycloserine. It is an antibiotic that is primarily used in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). It is used in combination with other antibiotics to effectively treat the infection and prevent the development of drug resistance.
Antibiotic works by inhibiting the growth of the bacteria that cause TB. It targets specific enzymes involved in the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, disrupting their function and preventing the bacteria from multiplying.
This medication is available in the form of capsules and is typically taken orally. The dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the specific regimen, which may vary based on the individual's age, weight, and the severity of the TB infection.
It is important to note that Seromycin is usually reserved for use in drug-resistant strains of TB or cases where other first-line treatments have been ineffective. It is not typically used as a first-line therapy due to its potential side effects and the need for close monitoring during treatment.
Composition of Seromycin
The active ingredient of seromycin is Cycloserine. The other inactive ingredients include:
- Methylparaben
- Titanium Dioxide
- Butylparaben
- Ferrosoferric oxide
- Propylparaben
- FD&C red no. 3
- FD&C yellow no. 6
- FD&C blue no. 1
- D&C yellow no. 10
- Sodium propionate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulphate
- Benzyl Alcohol
- Gelatin
Uses of Seromycin
Extrapulmonary and active pulmonary tuberculosis are mainly treated with this medication when other primary medications (like rifampin, ethambutol, streptomycin and isoniazid) are inadequate in treating the condition. It is even used for the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs). The growth of the bacteria in the urinary tract is stopped using seromycin.
Only bacterial infections can be treated using this antibiotic. Viral infections (for example flu and common cold) cannot be treated using seromycin. The effectiveness of the medication can reduce if it is unnecessarily used or misused.
Dosage
Typically, the recommended dosage of Seromycin for adults is around 10 to 15 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into two doses. For children, the dosage may be adjusted based on their weight and age.
How to Take
Here are some general guidelines on how to take Seromycin:
- Take as prescribed: Take Seromycin exactly as prescribed. Do not take more or less of the medication or take it more frequently than instructed.
- Dosage timing: Drug is usually taken twice a day. It is generally recommended to take one dose in the morning and another in the evening, with a gap of about 12 hours between doses.
- Take with or without food: Seromycin can be taken with or without food. However, if you experience stomach upset or discomfort, you may take it with food to help alleviate these symptoms.
- Swallow whole: Take the capsules whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules, as it may alter the way the medication is absorbed by your body.
- Avoid alcohol: It is advisable to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Seromycin, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects and may interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.
- Complete the full course: To effectively treat your condition, it is important to complete the full course of Seromycin as prescribed, even if you start feeling better before completing the treatment. Stopping the medication prematurely can lead to the re-emergence of the infection and potentially develop antibiotic resistance.
Side effects of Seromycin
Cycloserine, the active ingredient present in seromycin may cause side effects that may require immediate medical attention.
Common side effects:
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Confusion
- Speech problems
- Dizziness
- Mental changes as well as mood changes
- Drowsiness
- Nightmares
- Increased irritability
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Increased restlessness
- Trembling and muscle twitching
- Increased restlessness
- Mental depression
Less common side effects:
- Skin rash
- Seizures or convulsions
- Feelings of burning pain, numbness, weakness and tingling in the feet or hands
Some of the side-effects may not need any type of medical attention. When the body adapts to the medicine, the side-effects may reduce and finally disappear.
Contraindications of Seromycin
The medicine is contradicted among patients who may have:
- Concurrent and excessive use of alcohol
- Hypersensitivity to the key ingredient, cycloserine
- Severe renal insufficiency
- Epilepsy
- Psychosis, depression and severe anxiety
The dosage must be discontinued in case the patient develops symptoms of CNS toxicity or allergic dermatitis. Chronic alcoholics have an increased risk of convulsions.
Interactions
Medicament may interact with certain medications, substances, or medical conditions. Here are some notable interactions associated with Seromycin:
- Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking Cycloserine can increase the risk of certain side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. It is advisable to avoid alcohol during your treatment.
- Other central nervous system depressants: Seromycin can potentiate the effects of other drugs that depress the central nervous system, such as sedatives, tranquilizers, and certain antihistamines. Combining these substances with Seromycin can lead to increased sedation and impaired coordination.
- Other medications: Seromycin may interact with certain medications, including isoniazid (used to treat tuberculosis), certain antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and anti-anxiety medications.
- Medical conditions: If you have a history of seizures, kidney problems, or psychiatric disorders, you may require special monitoring or dosage adjustments in these cases.
- Vitamin B6 supplements: High doses of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) may reduce the effectiveness of Seromycin.
Warnings
When taking Seromycin, it is important to be aware of certain warnings and precautions. Here are some important points to consider:
- Neurological effects: Drug may cause neurological side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, headache, and seizures. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
- Psychiatric effects: Cycloserine can cause psychiatric side effects such as depression, anxiety, irritability, and changes in behavior or mood.
- Hypersensitivity reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Seromycin, which can manifest as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical help if you develop any signs of an allergic reaction.
- Kidney function: Medicament is primarily eliminated through the kidneys. If you have impaired kidney function, you may need to adjust your dosage to prevent potential toxicity. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be necessary.
- Drug resistance: It is important to complete the full course of Seromycin as prescribed. Stopping the medication prematurely can lead to the re-emergence of the infection and potentially develop antibiotic resistance.
Seromycin and Alcohol
It is generally advisable to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Seromycin. Alcohol can interact with Cycloserine and lead to increased side effects and potential complications. Here's why:
- Central Nervous System Depression: Both Seromycin and alcohol can depress the central nervous system (CNS), leading to sedation, drowsiness, and impaired coordination. Combining the two substances can intensify these effects and increase the risk of accidents or injuries.
- Increased Dizziness and Drowsiness: Cycloserine can cause dizziness and drowsiness as side effects. Alcohol can further enhance these effects, making it even more difficult to concentrate, drive, or perform tasks that require alertness.
- Liver Toxicity: Both Seromycin and alcohol can put a strain on the liver. Combining them may increase the risk of liver damage or impair the liver's ability to metabolize the medications effectively.
- Worsening Side Effects: Alcohol can worsen the side effects of Seromycin, such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and gastrointestinal disturbances. This combination may lead to an unpleasant and uncomfortable experience.
To ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment, it is best to refrain from consuming alcohol while taking Seromycin.
Pregnancy and Seromycin
The effects of this medicine are not yet known during the time of pregnancy. It may cause harm to the new-born if taken during the time of breastfeeding.