Caricef Syrup at a Glance
Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Brand name | Caricef Syrup (oral suspension) |
| Active ingredient | Cefixime (as trihydrate) |
| Strength | 100 mg per 5 mL (Caricef DS contains 200 mg per 5 mL) |
| Form | Dry powder mixed with water to form a suspension |
| Drug class | Third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic |
| Common pack sizes | 30 mL and 60 mL |
| Main uses | Bacterial infections of the ear, throat, chest, and urinary tract |
What Is Caricef Syrup?
Caricef syrup is a brand of cefixime available in liquid form. Cefixime belongs to the cephalosporin group of antibiotics, which is related to penicillin-type medicines. The liquid form makes it easier to measure doses according to body weight, so doctors often prescribe it for children who cannot swallow tablets or capsules.
Some people search for it as “syp caricef,” “syrup caricef,” “cericef,” or “carecef.” These terms generally refer to cefixime syrup.
Caricef Syrup Uses
Doctors prescribe Caricef syrup for bacterial infections that can be treated with cefixime. These include:
Middle ear infection (otitis media): Common in young children.
Throat and tonsil infections: Particularly strep throat caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.
Bronchitis and other chest infections.
Sinus infection (sinusitis).
Urinary tract infection (UTI).
In Pakistan, doctors may also use cefixime to treat typhoid fever, but only after confirming the diagnosis, usually through appropriate testing such as a blood culture.
What Conditions Does Caricef Syrup Not Treat?
Caricef syrup does not help with colds, flu, most coughs, or viral fever. These illnesses are caused by viruses, and antibiotics do not work against viruses.
Using antibiotics for viral infections will not shorten the illness and may increase the risk of antibiotic resistance, in which bacteria become less responsive to medicines.
Caricef Syrup Uses in Urdu
Caricef syrup contains cefixime, an antibiotic used for certain bacterial infections, including:
Ear infections
Throat and tonsil infections
Chest infections, such as bronchitis
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
This syrup works only against susceptible bacterial infections. It is not beneficial for colds, flu, or viral fever. The doctor determines the appropriate dose according to the child’s weight and the type of infection. Never give it without medical advice.
How Does Caricef Syrup Work?
Bacteria need a strong outer cell wall to survive. Cefixime prevents bacteria from building this wall. Without it, the bacteria weaken and die, allowing the body’s immune system to help clear the remaining infection.
Caricef Syrup for Babies and Children
Parents often have questions about using Caricef syrup for babies and children. The following points are important:
Age: The US prescribing information for cefixime suspension covers children aged 6 months and older. For babies younger than 6 months, only a pediatrician should decide whether it is appropriate.
Dose depends on body weight: The US prescribing information lists 8 mg of cefixime per kilogram of body weight per day for children. However, the correct volume in milliliters depends on the child’s weight, the infection, and the strength of the syrup. Always follow the doctor’s prescription.
Check the medicine strength: Cefixime suspension is available in strengths of 100 mg/5 mL and 200 mg/5 mL. The same volume from bottles of different strengths delivers different amounts of medicine, which can lead to dosing errors.
Ear infections: The prescribing information specifies that cefixime tablets should not replace the suspension when treating otitis media in children.
Never calculate your child’s dose yourself using a website, including this one.
Caricef Syrup vs. Caricef DS Syrup
Caricef syrup contains 100 mg of cefixime in every 5 mL, whereas Caricef DS (double strength) contains 200 mg in every 5 mL.
The DS version contains twice as much medicine in the same volume. Therefore, a doctor or pharmacist should confirm which bottle your child has before administering each dose.
Do not substitute one version for the other without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
How to Use Caricef Syrup Properly
Follow these instructions when using Caricef syrup:
Prepare the suspension correctly: Mix the powder according to the product label. Add clean, boiled and cooled water up to the marked line on the bottle, following the manufacturer’s instructions, and shake well.
Shake before every dose: The medicine may settle at the bottom of the bottle, so shake it thoroughly before use.
Measure the dose accurately: Use the measuring syringe or cup supplied with the medicine. Household spoons may not provide an accurate dose.
Take it with or without food: Caricef syrup can generally be taken with or without food. If it causes stomach discomfort, taking it with food may help.
Follow the prescribed course: Give the medicine for the duration prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop or change the treatment without medical advice.
Store and discard it properly: Follow the storage and disposal instructions on the product label. Discard any remaining syrup as directed, and never give leftover medicine to another child.
Caricef Syrup Side Effects
Most children tolerate Caricef syrup well. However, some may experience side effects.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects include:
Diarrhea (the most common side effect)
Abdominal pain, nausea, or gas
Indigestion or vomiting
Headache or dizziness
When to Contact a Doctor
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms:
– Severe, watery, or bloody diarrhea during treatment or several weeks after completing treatment. This may be a sign of a serious medical condition and requires prompt medical attention.
Additional Side Effects
Rash, itching, swelling of the face or mouth, or difficulty breathing: These may be signs of an allergic reaction. Stop taking the syrup and seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
Unusual bruising or bleeding.
If your child develops mild diarrhea while taking antibiotics, ask your doctor whether a probiotic may help. [[Internal link: Probiotic Sachet Article]]
Who Should Not Take Caricef Syrup?
Do not use Caricef syrup if the person is allergic to cefixime or any other cephalosporin antibiotic. Inform the doctor if there is any history of penicillin allergy, as the doctor will need details about the previous reaction.
Also, inform the doctor about any kidney disease because the dosage may need to be adjusted.
Drug Interactions
Probenecid: It increases cefixime levels in the blood and may require a dosage adjustment.
Blood thinners (anticoagulants): They may have stronger effects when used with cefixime, so closer monitoring may be necessary.
Tell the doctor or pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and herbal product your child takes.
Is Caricef Syrup Safe During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?
Caricef syrup is primarily used in children, but cefixime is also prescribed to adults. Therefore, pregnant and breastfeeding women may have questions about its safety.
Pregnancy: Studies of cephalosporins during pregnancy have generally not shown evidence of harm, but human data specifically related to cefixime are limited. UK product information recommends using it only when a doctor considers it necessary. Do not take it without medical advice.
Breastfeeding: According to the LactMed database of the US National Library of Medicine, cephalosporins are generally not expected to cause problems in breastfed infants, and cefixime is considered acceptable for breastfeeding mothers. Occasionally, an infant may develop diarrhea or oral thrush. Consult your doctor before using it.
Caricef Syrup Price in Pakistan
Medicine prices in Pakistan are regulated by DRAP and may change frequently. Therefore, any price should be considered a guide rather than a fixed rate.
As of October 2026, an online pharmacy listed Caricef DS 200 mg/5 mL (30 mL) at approximately PKR 370, while another listed Caricef 100 mg/5 mL (30 mL) at approximately PKR 315. According to the listing, the latter product was out of stock.
To check the current official price, search for the medicine in the DRAP price index or ask your pharmacist. Before comparing prices, check the medicine strength (100 mg or 200 mg per 5 mL) and pack size (30 mL or 60 mL).
Why Should Antibiotics Not Be Used Without a Doctor’s Advice?
Antibiotics are readily available in Pakistan, but using them when they are not needed can cause bacteria to develop resistance. When an antibiotic stops working effectively, even ordinary infections can become more difficult and expensive to treat.
A doctor can determine whether an infection is bacterial, which antibiotic is appropriate, and how long the treatment should continue.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Take your child back to the doctor if:
There is no improvement after 2–3 days of treatment.
The fever or pain becomes worse.
Your child repeatedly vomits the medicine.
Severe diarrhea, a skin rash, or swelling develops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Caricef syrup used for?
Caricef syrup is used to treat bacterial infections of the ear, throat and tonsils, chest, sinuses, and urinary tract. It contains cefixime, an antibiotic.
Is Caricef syrup an antibiotic?
Yes. Caricef syrup is an antibiotic belonging to the cephalosporin group. Its active ingredient, cefixime, works by interfering with bacterial cell wall formation, causing susceptible bacteria to die.
Is Caricef syrup safe for infants?
Cefixime suspension is approved for children aged 6 months and older under the cited US prescribing information. For younger infants, only a pediatrician should decide whether it is appropriate. The dose depends on the child’s weight, so always follow the doctor’s prescription.
What is the difference between Caricef and Caricef DS?
Caricef contains 100 mg of cefixime per 5 mL, while Caricef DS contains 200 mg per 5 mL. They are not interchangeable at the same volume dose.
Can Caricef syrup be used for cough or fever?
Not without medical advice. Most coughs and fevers are caused by viruses, which antibiotics do not treat. A doctor may prescribe Caricef syrup if a bacterial infection is responsible for the symptoms.
What are the side effects of Caricef syrup?
Common side effects include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, gas, headache, and dizziness. Severe watery diarrhea, a rash accompanied by concerning symptoms, or swelling of the face or mouth requires prompt medical attention.
Can I give Caricef syrup on an empty stomach?
Yes. It can generally be given with or without food. Giving it with food may help reduce stomach discomfort.
What is the price of Caricef syrup in Pakistan?
Online pharmacies listed prices of approximately PKR 315–370 for a 30 mL bottle, depending on the strength and seller. Prices may change, so check the DRAP price index or ask your pharmacist for the latest price.
Is Caricef syrup safe during pregnancy?
Data specifically relating to cefixime use during pregnancy are limited. It should only be used when a doctor considers it necessary. Do not self-medicate during pregnancy.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational purposes and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change any antibiotic, or determine a child’s dosage, without guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
Sources
- MedlinePlus (NIH): Cefixime
- US prescribing information for cefixime for oral suspension (DailyMed / FDA label)
- NIH LactMed: Cefixime and breastfeeding
- DRAP Pharmaceutical Product Price Index.