Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Fosfomycin

Fosfomycin: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is fosfomycin?

Fosfomycin is an antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections in the body. Doctors primarily recommend it for bladder infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or acute cystitis. Known to be a synthetic, broad-spectrum bactericidal, it works by preventing the growth of bacteria with a single dose. However, it does not work for viral infections such as the common cold or flu. 

Fosfomycin is available in India under various brand names such as Fosfocin, Fosirol, Monural, Fonyl, Crifos, etc.

What are the uses of fosfomycin?

Fosfomycin treats bladder infections such as acute cystitis, a sudden inflammation of the urinary bladder. These are more commonly called uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs). As a single-dose medication, doctors prescribe it alone or with a combination of other drugs depending on your condition.

Fosfomycin is available in two forms – powder and injection. The powder form comes in a 3-gram sachet to be mixed with a glass of water. The injection is to be administered intravenously.

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    What are the side effects of fosfomycin?

    Most people who consume fosfomycin do not see any serious side effects. Adhere to the dosage as per your doctor’s prescription. Some common side effects of fosfomycin include diarrhea, dizziness, indigestion, headache, vomiting, stomach ache, and vaginal yeast infections. If more serious side effects such as unusual weakness, sudden vision change, hives, wheezing, or painful urination are seen, it is best to seek medical attention immediately.

    What is Fosfomycin

    Uses of Fosfomycin

    Side effects of Fosfomycin

    References

    1. FOSFOMYCIN TROMETHAMINE – ORAL (Monurol) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.
    2. Fosfomycin: Indications, Side Effects, Warnings
    3. Monurol Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
    4. Fosfomycin: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Fosfomycin

    Usually, Fosfomycin shows results with a single dose itself. One may see a considerable improvement in 2–3 days. It is advisable to complete the prescribed dose as recommended by a healthcare professional, even if your symptoms subside, to avoid reinfection.

    Fosfomycin is an extremely effective antibiotic for single-dose use as compared to other multi-day antibiotic courses for UTIs. Its bactericidal properties are effective against gram-negative microorganisms and gram-positive microorganisms, thus making it an expensive drug. The efficacy and uses of this medication far outweigh the side effects and precautions associated with it.

    Doctors usually prescribe fosfomycin to women. Sometimes, they prescribe it to men suffering from complicated urinary tract infections. Studies have also shown that fosfomycin can be a viable option for men suffering from chronic or acute bacterial prostatitis. A doctor’s diagnosis and recommendation are therefore essential.

    No, fosfomycin cannot treat chlamydia. Doctors prescribe azithromycin for chlamydia and fosfomycin for urinary tract infections. While fosfomycin may be effective within 2–3 days, azithromycin may need up to 2 weeks to show results. For any infection to fully clear up, it is essential to adhere to the prescription advised by a doctor.

    No, fosfomycin does not contain penicillin. Penicillin treats bacterial infections of the ears, nose, and mouth and is safe for children. On the other hand, fosfomycin is consumed only by adults over 18 years of age and treats uncomplicated urinary tract infections.

    Yes, fosfomycin is good for treating UTIs in women. As a single-dose antibiotic, it comes in a 3-gram sachet. Considered to be a viable treatment option for bladder infections, doctors recommend fosfomycin as the first line of treatment. Stick to the dosage as per your doctor’s recommendation.

    Fosfomycin falls under the class of drugs known as broad-spectrum antibiotics. Medically, it is active against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria in the body. Fosfomycin was founded in 1969 by scientists at the Spanish Penicillin and Antibiotics Company. Today, it is manufactured synthetically all around the world.

    Doctors prescribe either nitrofurantoin or fosfomycin to treat UTIs. The former is a 5-day course, while the latter is a single-dose prescription. While studies have proved that both these drugs are effective against the treatment of uncomplicated bladder infections, it is medically proven that nitrofurantoin has a superior clinical response.

    Fosfomycin needs to be consumed orally by mixing the powder form, sold in a sachet, in one glass of water. Doctors recommend that you drink this on an empty stomach before bedtime, with an empty bladder. It is essential to follow these instructions recommended by a healthcare professional.

    Fosfomycin can cause vaginal inflammation or even result in yeast infections in some women. As a common side effect seen in some patients, this yeast infection disappears over time. If you have any doubts or notice the condition persisting over time, it is advisable to consult with a doctor.

    Our team of experts at Yashoda Hospitals is here to answer all your queries. Get in touch with us today!
    S.no Product Name Dosage Form
    1. Monurol Fosfomycin 3mg Powder
    2. Fosfocin Fosfomycin 3mg Powder
    3. Fosirol Fosfomycin trometamol 3mg Powder
    4. Fosutrac Fosfomycin 4mg Injection
    5. Crifos Fosfomycin 4mg Injection