Sulbactam
About Sulbactam
Sulbactam belongs to the group of medicines called beta-lactamase inhibitors indicated in the treatment of moderate to severe bacterial infections. Bacterial infections are caused due to the multiplication of harmful bacteria inside or on the body. Sulbactam does not work against infections caused by viruses, including cold and flu.
Sulbactam contains Sulbactam, which works by blocking beta-lactamase that is produced by the bacteria to inactivate antibiotic medicines.
In some cases, Sulbactam may cause side effects such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and headache. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to the doctor if any of the side effects persist or worsen.
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Sulbactam is safe for children if prescribed by a doctor; the doctor will determine the dose and duration. Inform your doctor about all the medicines you are taking and your health condition to rule out any unpleasant side effects/interactions.
Uses of Sulbactam
Medicinal Benefits
Sulbactam belongs to the group of medicines called beta-lactamase inhibitors indicated in the treatment of moderate to severe bacterial infections. It is used to treat infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) infections, including lower respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, bacteraemia (presence of viable bacteria in the bloodstream), sepsis, meningitis (inflammation of brain and spinal cord due to infection), and surgical wounds when commonly used systemic antibacterial agents may be contraindicated or may be ineffective due to bacterial resistance. Sulbactam contains Sulbactam, which works by blocking beta-lactamase that is produced by the bacteria to inactivate antibiotic medicines.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Sulbactam
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
- Fatigue
Drug Warnings
Do not take Sulbactam if you are allergic to any of the components. Consult the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Let your doctor know if you are taking any prescription/non-prescription medicines or herbal/vitamin supplements.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor if you are taking uricosuric agent (probenecid).
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorIt is not known if alcohol interacts with Sulbactam. Please consult a doctor.
Pregnancy
cautionSulbactam should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Breast Feeding
cautionCaution should be exercised when Sulbactam is administered to a nursing mother.
Driving
consult your doctorIt is unknown if Sulbactam alters your ability to drive. Drive only if you are alert.
Liver
consult your doctorIf you have a history of liver disease, inform your doctor before receiving Sulbactam.
Kidney
consult your doctorIf you have a history of kidney disease, inform your doctor before receiving Sulbactam.
Children
safe if prescribedSulbactam is safe for children if prescribed by a doctor. The dose and duration will be determined by the doctor.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Antibiotics can alter the useful bacteria in the stomach, which help in digestion. Therefore, you are advised to take foods rich in probiotics, such as yoghurt/curd, kefir, sauerkraut, tempeh, kimchi, miso, kombucha, buttermilk, natto and cheese.
- Eat fibre-rich food like whole grains, beans, lentils, berries, broccoli, peas and bananas.
- Avoid consumption of alcohol and usage of tobacco.
Special Advise
- Treatment with antibacterial agents may alter the normal flora of the colon, leading to the overgrowth of Clostridium difficile. Inform the doctor if you experience symptoms of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea (CDAD), such as watery diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, dry mouth, headache, loss of appetite, and nausea.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Bacterial infection: A bacterial infection is a condition in which harmful bacteria enter, multiply, and infect the body. It can target any body part and multiply very quickly. Generalised symptoms of bacterial infection include fever, chills, and fatigue. Anyone can become infected with a bacterial infection. However, people with a weak immune system or taking immunosuppressive medicines are more prone to bacterial infection.
FAQs
Sulbactam is used to treat Bacterial infections.
Sulbactam works by blocking beta-lactamase that is produced by the bacteria to inactivate antibiotic medicines.
Diarrhoea might be a side-effect of Sulbactam. Drink lots of fluids and eat non-spicy food if you experience diarrhoea. If you find blood in stools (tarry stools) or if you experience severe diarrhoea, consult your doctor. Do not take anti-diarrheal medicine on your own.
Concomitant use of probenecid with Sulbactam may increase and prolong the blood levels of sulbactam. Therefore, consult the doctor before taking probenecid during treatment with Sulbactam.
The common side effects of Sulbactam include diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and headache. If these side effects persist, please inform your doctor.
Sulbactam is added to other antibiotics (such as ampicillin and cefoperazone) to enhance their effectiveness against bacteria that are normally resistant to them. Sulbactam is a β-lactamase inhibitor that prevents bacteria from breaking down these antibiotics.
Sulbactam should not be taken by individuals who are allergic to any of its components. It is also not recommended for patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to penicillin or cephalosporins. Please inform your doctor before taking Sulbactam with other antibiotics.
Before receiving Sulbactam, you should discuss any allergies you have, especially to the components of Sulbactam, penicillins, or other beta-lactam antibiotics. Inform your doctor if you have any existing infections, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, let your doctor know if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications, as well as any herbal or vitamin supplements.
No, you should avoid using a discoloured solution of Sulbactam. Discoloration may indicate contamination, which could reduce the drug's effectiveness. It is recommended to discard the solution and use a new vial.
No, continue taking Sulbactam as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start feeling better. Stopping the medication early may lead to incomplete treatment and may cause the bacteria to develop resistance to the antibiotics.
No, Sulbactam does not treat the flu. It is a medication that helps treat bacterial infections, often when used in combination with other antibiotics. Since the flu is caused by a virus, antiviral medications are needed, not antibiotics.
