cefolac-az tablet - Cefixime (200mg) + Azithromycin (500mg) medicine

Alencef AZ 200mg/500mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 24, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for individual components; combination evidence is limited.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 24, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is cefolac-az tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination antibiotic containing Cefixime 200 mg and Azithromycin 500 mg. It is used to treat bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, and skin. It works by killing bacteria through two different mechanisms. Take it exactly as prescribed and complete the full course.

  • Generic Name: Cefixime + Azithromycin
  • Manufacturer: Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 cefolac-az tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा सेफिक्सिम 200 मिलीग्राम और एज़िथ्रोमाइसिन 500 मिलीग्राम का संयोजन है। इसका उपयोग बैक्टीरियल संक्रमण जैसे श्वसन तंत्र संक्रमण, मूत्र मार्ग संक्रमण, त्वचा संक्रमण और टाइफाइड बुखार के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह बैक्टीरिया को मारकर काम करती है। इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार पूरा कोर्स करें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में दस्त, मतली, पेट दर्द, सिरदर्द और उल्टी शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन एलर्जी, गंभीर दस्त, या यकृत की समस्या हो सकती है। किसी भी गंभीर लक्षण पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। कोर्स पूरा करें, बीच में न छोड़ें। भोजन के साथ या बिना भोजन के ले सकते हैं। एंटासिड के साथ 2 घंटे का अंतराल रखें। गुर्दे या यकृत की बीमारी हो तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। शराब से बचें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 cefolac-az tablet Uses & Benefits

  • [{"condition":"Community-acquired pneumonia","description":"Used to treat pneumonia caused by susceptible bacteria, especially when atypical pathogens are suspected.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis","description":"Helps resolve bacterial exacerbations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urinary tract infections","description":"Effective against many common urinary pathogens, including E.
  • coli and Klebsiella.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Skin and soft tissue infections","description":"Used for uncomplicated skin infections such as cellulitis and abscesses.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Typhoid fever","description":"Cefixime component is effective against Salmonella typhi; azithromycin adds coverage.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Gonorrhea","description":"Sometimes used off-label for uncomplicated gonococcal infections, but resistance patterns vary.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Pelvic inflammatory disease","description":"May be used as part of a regimen, but not standard first-line.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Bacterial infections

Also treats: Respiratory tract infections, Urinary tract infections, Skin infections, Typhoid fever

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Cefixime + Azithromycin
Brand NameAzicef-LB Tablet
ManufacturerMacleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action ClassCephalosporin antibiotic + Macrolide antibiotic
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food to reduce stomach upset.
2
Complete the full course even if you feel better after a few days.
3
Avoid taking antacids within 2 hours of this medicine.
4
Stay well hydrated throughout the day.
5
Report any unusual bleeding, bruising, or severe diarrhea immediately.
6
Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Fever with productive cough
This medicine is commonly prescribed for bacterial respiratory infections.
Likely Use
✅
Burning urination
May be used for urinary tract infections.
Likely Use
❌
Runny nose without fever
This medicine is not effective for viral colds.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionCefixime is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with bioavailability of about 40-50%. Azithromycin is also absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with bioavailability of about 37%. Food may slightly affect absorption but is generally not clinically significant.
DistributionCefixime distributes widely into body tissues and fluids, including the respiratory tract, urine, and bile. Azithromycin distributes extensively into tissues, achieving high concentrations in phagocytes and fibroblasts, which transport it to infection sites.
Protein BindingCefixime is about 65% protein-bound. Azithromycin is about 7-50% protein-bound, depending on concentration.
MetabolismCefixime is not significantly metabolized. Azithromycin is partially metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP3A4.
Half-LifeCefixime half-life is about 3-4 hours. Azithromycin half-life is about 68 hours due to extensive tissue distribution.
ExcretionCefixime is excreted primarily unchanged in urine (about 50%) and bile. Azithromycin is excreted mainly in bile as unchanged drug and metabolites, with a small amount in urine.
BioavailabilityCefixime: 40-50%; Azithromycin: 37%.
Onset of ActionCefixime: peak effect within 2-4 hours. Azithromycin: peak effect within 2-3 hours.
Peak Plasma TimeCefixime: 2-4 hours; Azithromycin: 2-3 hours.
Duration of ActionCefixime: 12-24 hours; Azithromycin: tissue levels persist for several days after the last dose.

How It Works

This medicine combines two antibiotics with different mechanisms. Cefixime, a cephalosporin, inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to bacterial lysis. Azithromycin, a macrolide, binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit and inhibits protein synthesis, thereby stopping bacterial growth. Together, they provide broad-spectrum coverage against many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as atypical pathogens.

Mechanism Steps

1
Cefixime binds to PBPs: Cefixime binds to penicillin-binding proteins on the bacterial cell wall, inhibiting cross-linking of peptidoglycan.
2
Cell wall lysis: Inhibition of cell wall synthesis leads to bacterial cell lysis and death.
3
Azithromycin binds to 50S subunit: Azithromycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit, blocking the translocation step of protein synthesis.
4
Inhibition of protein synthesis: This prevents the growth and multiplication of bacteria, allowing the immune system to clear the infection.

💡 How to Take cefolac-az tablet

Strength: Tablet containing Cefixime 200 mg and Azithromycin 500 mg.

1Take the tablet with a full glass of water.
2Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
3Take with or without food, but if stomach upset occurs, take with food.
4Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.
5Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is one tablet (Cefixime 200 mg + Azithromycin 500 mg) once daily or as prescribed by your doctor. The duration of treatment depends on the type and severity of infection, typically 5 to 7 days. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may have reduced renal function; dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with creatinine clearance <20 mL/min, cefixime dose should be adjusted. Azithromycin generally does not require adjustment. Consult your doctor for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment for cefixime. Azithromycin should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is one tablet (Cefixime 200 mg + Azithromycin 500 mg). Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Antacids
Avoid within 2 hours
May reduce absorption of cefixime.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of cefolac-az tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Diarrhea (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If diarrhea is severe or persists, consult your doctor.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food. If nausea continues, consult your doctor.
Abdominal pain (Common (5-10%))
Usually temporary. If severe, contact your doctor.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Consult if persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, difficulty breathing, or severe rash.
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor if you have severe, persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or blood in stool.
Liver toxicity (Rare (<0.1%))
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain to your doctor immediately.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop a painful rash with blisters or peeling skin.
QT prolongation
Inform your doctor if you have heart conditions or are taking other QT-prolonging drugs.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Ergotamine Major
Digoxin Major
Antacids Moderate
Carbamazepine Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Ergot alkaloids (e.g., ergotamine)
  • Digoxin

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Antacids (aluminum/magnesium)
  • Carbamazepine

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach upset and liver effects. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known allergy to cephalosporins, penicillins, or macrolides","History of cholestatic jaundice with prior azithromycin use","Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustment may be required.","May cause Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea; if severe diarrhea occurs, stop and consult doctor.","May prolong QT interval; caution in patients with arrhythmias or on QT-prolonging drugs.","Avoid in patients with a history of allergy to beta-lactams.","Not effective against viral infections; do not use for common cold or flu.","Complete the full course as prescribed to prevent resistance."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Cefixime and azithromycin are excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while on this medicine.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis does not effectively remove cefixime or azithromycin.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop the course early, even if you feel better, as this can lead to antibiotic resistance. Take the tablet with a full glass of water, with or without food. If you get stomach upset, taking it with food may help. Avoid taking antacids containing aluminum or magnesium within 2 hours of this medicine, as they can reduce its absorption. Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, or if you are taking blood thinners, digoxin, or ergot medications. Do not share this medicine with others. Store it at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may have reduced kidney function and are more prone to side effects. Dose adjustment may be needed. Monitor for signs of superinfection and dehydration.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Both components are generally considered safe in pregnancy but should be used only if clearly needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be prescribed to prevent or treat surgical site infections. Follow your surgeon's instructions carefully. Inform your surgeon if you are taking this medicine before any surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may interact with other medications used during dental procedures. It may also affect the oral flora and increase risk of oral thrush.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated to help flush out bacteria.
🥗
Get plenty of rest to support your immune system.
😴
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
💧
Practice good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
🧘
Avoid close contact with others if you have a contagious infection.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

If you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid strenuous exercise until you feel better. Light activity is generally safe.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt to prevent diarrhea.
Stay hydrated with water and clear fluids.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine which can worsen stomach upset.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you are affected. Most people can continue their normal activities.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine only after completing the full prescribed course or as directed by your doctor. Do not stop early even if you feel better, as this can lead to resistance. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of antibiotics can lead to bacterial resistance and superinfections. This medicine is usually prescribed for short courses. Prolonged use should be avoided unless specifically directed by a doctor. Monitor for signs of liver or kidney problems if used for extended periods.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Probiotics

Can help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Evidence: Well-established
Symptomatic treatment

For viral infections, rest and fluids are the mainstay.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Antibiotics do not interact with vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for a live vaccine, inform your doctor as antibiotics may affect the immune response to certain vaccines.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from moisture. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing times gradually as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old man with community-acquired pneumonia
He was prescribed this medicine for 7 days. He took it with food to avoid stomach upset. His fever subsided within 3 days, and he completed the full course. He reported mild diarrhea, which resolved after treatment.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food and completing the course led to full recovery with minimal side effects.
👤 A 50-year-old woman with urinary tract infection
She was prescribed this medicine for 5 days. She experienced nausea initially but took it with meals and felt better. Her symptoms improved within 2 days. She was advised to increase water intake.
💡 Lesson: Taking with food and staying hydrated helps manage side effects and improves tolerability.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling better within 2-3 days, but you must complete the full course as prescribed.

Q: Can I take it with food?

A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. If you get stomach upset, take it with a meal.

Q: What if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your schedule. Do not double dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for cefolac-az tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Antibiotics can cure viral infections like the flu.
    Fact: This medicine is effective only against bacterial infections. It does not treat viral infections.
  • Myth: You can stop taking antibiotics once you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full prescribed course to prevent bacterial resistance and relapse.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Cefixime 200 mg + Azithromycin 500 mg tablet (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Alencef AZ 200mg/500mg tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Cefixime alone","difference":"Lacks azithromycin coverage for atypical pathogens."},{"medicine":"Azithromycin alone","difference":"Lacks cefixime coverage for many gram-negative bacteria."}]

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