Fosfomycin
(fos foe mye' sin)
WHY is this medicine prescribed?
Fosfomycin is an antibiotic used to treat infections of the urinary tract.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
HOW should this medicine be used?
Fosfomycin comes as granules to be mixed with water and then taken by mouth. Do not take the dry granules by mouth without first diluting them in water. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take fosfomycin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
To prepare a dose, pour the entire contents of a single-dose packet into a glass and add 3 to 4 ounces (90 to 120 milliliters) of cold water. Stir to dissolve. Do not use hot water. The dose should be taken by mouth as soon as it is prepared.
What SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS should I follow?
Before taking fosfomycin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to fosfomycin or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially cisapride (Propulsid), metoclopramide (Reglan), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had asthma or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking fosfomycin, call your doctor.
What should I do IF I FORGET to take a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What SIDE EFFECTS can this medicine cause?
Fosfomycin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- nausea
- diarrhea
- headache
- vaginal itching
- runny nose
- back pain
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- fever
- rash
- joint pain
- swelling of the mouth or tongue
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at Web Site] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
What should I know about STORAGE and DISPOSAL of this medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What should I do in case of OVERDOSE?
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
What OTHER INFORMATION should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your response to fosfomycin
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Your prescription is probably not refillable. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the fosfomycin, call your doctor.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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