mericlav syrup - Cefixime (50mg) + Potassium Clavulanate (28.5mg) medicine

MERICLAV SYRUP: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 MRG Biotech Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 22, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for approved indications.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 22, 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

  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
  • Severe or bloody diarrhea that does not improve.
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
  • Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting.
  • Signs of a severe skin reaction, such as blistering or peeling.
  • Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs.
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is mericlav syrup used for?

This medicine is a combination antibiotic syrup containing cefixime and potassium clavulanate. It is used to treat bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, and ear. It works by killing bacteria and preventing their growth. It should be taken as prescribed by a doctor, and the full course should be completed even if symptoms improve.

  • Generic Name: Cefixime (50mg) + Potassium Clavulanate (28.5mg)
  • Manufacturer: MRG Biotech Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 mericlav syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक संयुक्त एंटीबायोटिक सिरप है जिसमें सेफिक्साइम और पोटैशियम क्लैवुलनेट होते हैं। यह बैक्टीरियल संक्रमणों जैसे श्वसन तंत्र, मूत्र मार्ग और कान के संक्रमण के इलाज के लिए दी जाती है। यह बैक्टीरिया को मारकर उनकी वृद्धि को रोकती है। इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार पूरा कोर्स करना चाहिए, भले ही लक्षण ठीक हो जाएं।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में दस्त, जी मिचलाना, पेट दर्द और हल्के दाने शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, गंभीर दस्त या लीवर की समस्या हो सकती है। यदि सांस लेने में कठिनाई, चेहरे या गले में सूजन, या खूनी दस्त हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। कोर्स पूरा करें, बीच में न छोड़ें। उपयोग से पहले बोतल को अच्छी तरह हिलाएं। सही मापने वाले चम्मच या कप का उपयोग करें। गुर्दे या लीवर की बीमारी हो तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। एंटासिड या आयरन सप्लीमेंट के साथ न लें। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

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

💊 mericlav syrup Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Acute otitis media","description":"Used to treat middle ear infections caused by susceptible bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Community-acquired pneumonia","description":"Effective against respiratory infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Acute bacterial sinusitis","description":"Treats sinus infections when caused by susceptible bacteria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urinary tract infections","description":"Used for uncomplicated urinary tract infections caused by susceptible strains of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella species.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Pharyngitis and tonsillitis","description":"Prescribed for bacterial throat infections, including those caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Lyme disease","description":"Sometimes used as an alternative for early Lyme disease in patients allergic to doxycycline, though not FDA-approved for this indication.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Gonorrhea","description":"Cefixime has been used for uncomplicated gonorrhea, but resistance is increasing and it is not a first-line option.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Bacterial infections

Also treats: Respiratory tract infections, Urinary tract infections, Otitis media, Sinusitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Cefixime (50mg) + Potassium Clavulanate (28.5mg)
Brand Namemericlav syrup
ManufacturerMRG Biotech Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C). Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed. After reconstitution, store as directed on the label, usually for 7-14 days, and discard any unused portion after that period.
Shelf LifeTypically 24 months from the date of manufacture for the dry powder. After reconstitution, use within the period specified on the label (usually 7-14 days when stored at room temperature or refrigerated).
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
Always complete the full course of this antibiotic, even if symptoms improve, to prevent resistance.
2
Take this medicine with food to reduce the chance of stomach upset.
3
Shake the bottle well before each dose to ensure proper mixing.
4
Use a proper measuring device to avoid under- or over-dosing.
5
Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems before starting this medicine.
6
Report any signs of allergic reaction, such as rash or swelling, immediately.
7
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.

✅
Ear pain
This medicine is commonly prescribed for ear infections.
Likely Use
✅
Fever
Fever due to bacterial infection may be treated with this medicine.
Likely Use
✅
Cough
Bacterial respiratory infections may be treated with this medicine.
Likely Use
✅
Burning urination
Urinary tract infections may be treated with this medicine.
Likely Use
❌
Common cold
This medicine is not effective against viral infections like the common cold.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionCefixime is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with approximately 40-50% bioavailability. Potassium clavulanate is also absorbed orally. Food does not significantly affect the absorption of cefixime but may reduce gastrointestinal upset.
DistributionCefixime distributes widely into body tissues and fluids, including the respiratory tract, middle ear, and urinary tract. Protein binding is approximately 65% for cefixime. Potassium clavulanate distributes extracellularly.
Protein BindingCefixime: approximately 65%. Potassium clavulanate: approximately 25%.
MetabolismCefixime is not significantly metabolized and is excreted largely unchanged. Potassium clavulanate is metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites.
Half-LifeCefixime: 3-4 hours in healthy adults. Potassium clavulanate: approximately 1 hour.
ExcretionCefixime is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine (up to 50% of a dose). Potassium clavulanate is excreted in urine and feces.
BioavailabilityCefixime: approximately 40-50%. Potassium clavulanate: approximately 60-70%.
Onset of ActionBacterial killing begins within hours, but clinical improvement may take 24-48 hours.
Peak Plasma TimeCefixime: 2-4 hours. Potassium clavulanate: 1-2 hours.
Duration of ActionCefixime: approximately 12-24 hours per dose. Potassium clavulanate: shorter duration, requiring more frequent dosing, but in this combination, the ratio is fixed.

How It Works

Cefixime, a third-generation cephalosporin, inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, disrupting peptidoglycan cross-linking and causing bacterial lysis. Potassium clavulanate is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that protects cefixime from degradation by certain beta-lactamase enzymes produced by bacteria, thereby extending its spectrum of activity.

Mechanism Steps

1
Cefixime binds to PBPs: Cefixime binds to penicillin-binding proteins on the bacterial cell membrane, inhibiting the transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis.
2
Cell wall synthesis inhibition: This inhibition weakens the bacterial cell wall, leading to osmotic instability and cell lysis.
3
Clavulanate inhibits beta-lactamases: Potassium clavulanate irreversibly binds to beta-lactamase enzymes, preventing them from hydrolyzing cefixime.
4
Enhanced bacterial killing: The combined effect results in broader coverage and effective killing of beta-lactamase-producing bacteria.

💡 How to Take mericlav syrup

Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains cefixime 50 mg and potassium clavulanate 28.5 mg.

1Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the medicine is mixed evenly.
2Use a calibrated measuring spoon or cup to measure the prescribed dose accurately.
3Take the medicine orally, with or without food, but preferably with food to reduce stomach upset.
4Swallow the medicine; do not chew or crush.
5Wash the measuring device after each use.
6Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 200 mg of cefixime combined with 125 mg of potassium clavulanate, taken orally every 12 hours. However, dosing may vary based on the type and severity of infection, renal function, and other factors. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-adjust the dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing based on the child's weight and the specific infection.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may have reduced renal function, which can affect drug clearance. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min), the dose of cefixime should be adjusted. The usual recommendation is to reduce the dose or extend the dosing interval. Consult a doctor for specific guidance.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment. Use with caution and monitor liver function.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose of cefixime is 400 mg. For potassium clavulanate, the maximum daily dose is not well established in this combination; follow prescribed regimen.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset and improves tolerability.
Antacids
Avoid taking together
Antacids can reduce absorption of cefixime. Separate by at least 2 hours.
Iron supplements
Avoid taking together
Iron can reduce absorption of cefixime. Separate by at least 2 hours.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than 6 hours have passed since the missed dose
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than 6 hours have passed since the missed dose
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of mericlav syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

Diarrhea (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves without treatment. Ensure adequate fluid intake. Consult doctor if persistent or severe.
Nausea (Common (3-5%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Abdominal pain (Common (3-5%))
Take with meals. If pain is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
Skin rash (Uncommon (1-2%))
Stop the medicine and consult your doctor if rash develops, as it may indicate allergy.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash.
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Rare (<0.1%))
Report persistent or bloody diarrhea to your doctor immediately. Do not self-treat with anti-diarrheal medications.
Liver toxicity (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical attention if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek immediate medical care if you develop a painful rash with blisters, peeling skin, or sores in the mouth or eyes.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood dyscrasias (e.g., thrombocytopenia, leukopenia)
Report unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of infection to your doctor.
Interstitial nephritis
Seek medical attention if you experience decreased urine output, swelling, or fatigue.
Seizures
Seek emergency care if seizures occur, especially in patients with kidney impairment.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Methotrexate Major
Probenecid Moderate
Oral contraceptives Moderate
Antacids Moderate
Iron supplements Moderate
Loop diuretics Minor
Aminoglycosides Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Methotrexate
  • Probenecid

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Oral contraceptives
  • Antacids
  • Iron supplements

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and abdominal pain. 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 beta-lactam antibiotics.","Previous severe allergic reaction to any beta-lactam antibiotic.","Use in patients with a history of Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity reactions can occur. Discontinue at first sign of rash or allergic reaction.","Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea may occur; mild cases may resolve on discontinuation, but severe cases require medical treatment.","Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustment may be needed.","Prolonged use may lead to overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi.","May cause false-positive results in urine glucose tests and Coombs tests.","Not effective against viral infections; inappropriate use may promote resistance."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Cefixime is excreted in human milk in low amounts. Potassium clavulanate is also excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised; consult your doctor before breastfeeding while on this medicine. Monitor infant for diarrhea or thrush.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, seizures may occur, especially in patients with renal impairment. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis may be considered in severe cases. Contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately if overdose is suspected.

⏰ 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 to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop treatment early, even if you feel better. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the medicine is evenly mixed. Use a proper measuring device to get the correct dose. Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, liver problems, or a history of allergies to antibiotics. Avoid taking this medicine with antacids or iron supplements as they can reduce its absorption. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Keep this medicine out of reach of children and store it as directed on the label.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may have reduced kidney function, which can affect the clearance of this medicine. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Monitor for signs of toxicity and ensure adequate hydration.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It is classified as Pregnancy Category B, but use only if clearly needed. Discuss any potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you are scheduled for surgery, inform your surgeon that you are taking this medicine. It may need to be stopped before certain procedures, or your surgeon may adjust the dose. Follow your doctor's instructions.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may interact with other medications used during dental work, and your dentist may need to adjust your treatment plan.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated to help flush out the infection.
🥗
Get plenty of rest to support your immune system.
😴
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
💧
Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, to prevent reinfection.
🧘
Avoid close contact with others who are sick to reduce the risk of new infections.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Moderate exercise is generally safe while taking this medicine, but if you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid strenuous activities. Listen to your body and rest when needed.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt to help maintain gut health.
Stay hydrated with water and clear fluids.
Avoid spicy and greasy foods that may worsen stomach upset.
Eat small, frequent meals if you experience nausea.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue in some people. If affected, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Otherwise, you can continue your normal daily activities as tolerated.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Stopping early can lead to recurrence of infection and antibiotic resistance. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately for guidance.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended unless directed by a doctor. Prolonged use may lead to bacterial resistance, fungal overgrowth, and rare blood or liver abnormalities. Regular monitoring may be required if used for extended periods.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid

Another antibiotic combination that may be used for similar infections.

Evidence: Well-established
Cefpodoxime + Clavulanic Acid

Alternative cephalosporin combination for bacterial infections.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for a live bacterial vaccine (e.g., typhoid), antibiotics may reduce its effectiveness. Consult your doctor for timing.

📦 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

✅ DO

Discard after the expiration date or after the recommended period post-reconstitution

❌ DON'T

Do not use if the syrup changes color or consistency

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label. Keep a copy of your prescription with you. If traveling across time zones, maintain the dosing schedule as close as possible to every 12 hours. Store the syrup at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or cold. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines. If the syrup needs refrigeration after reconstitution, ensure access to a refrigerator during travel.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 5-year-old child with recurrent ear infections.
The child was prescribed this medicine for acute otitis media. The parents administered it with food twice daily. After 3 days, the child's ear pain and fever subsided. The parents completed the 10-day course as directed, and the infection resolved without complications.
💡 Lesson: Completing the full course and administering with food improves outcomes and reduces side effects.
👤 A 35-year-old woman with a urinary tract infection.
She was prescribed this medicine for a UTI caused by E. coli. She experienced mild nausea initially but it subsided after taking it with meals. Her symptoms improved within 48 hours, and she completed the 7-day course. A follow-up urine culture was negative.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food can minimize gastrointestinal side effects and ensure adherence.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling better within 24-48 hours, but it is important to complete the full course as prescribed.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, taking it with food can help reduce stomach upset.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: 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.

Q: Is this medicine safe for children?

A: This medicine is often prescribed for children, but the dose must be determined by a pediatrician based on the child's weight and condition.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine when I feel better?

A: No, you must complete the full course as prescribed to prevent the infection from returning and to avoid antibiotic resistance.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine with milk?
  • 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?

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Antibiotics can cure viral infections like the common cold.
    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 course as prescribed to prevent bacterial resistance and recurrence.
  • Myth: Antibiotics can be shared with others.
    Fact: This medicine is prescribed for a specific individual and condition. Never share it with others.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Cefixime + Potassium Clavulanate oral suspension

Brand Alternatives

  • MERICLAV SYRUP

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Cefixime + Potassium Clavulanate","class":"Third-generation cephalosporin + beta-lactamase inhibitor","spectrum":"Broad-spectrum","common_use":"Respiratory, urinary, ear infections"},{"medicine":"Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid","class":"Aminopenicillin + beta-lactamase inhibitor","spectrum":"Broad-spectrum","common_use":"Respiratory, skin, dental infections"},{"medicine":"Cefpodoxime + Clavulanic Acid","class":"Third-generation cephalosporin + beta-lactamase inhibitor","spectrum":"Broad-spectrum","common_use":"Respiratory, urinary, skin infections"}]

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