Indications
Pivcilin treats infections caused by mecillinam-sensitive organisms. These include acute cystitis, complicated urinary tract infections, salmonellosis, shigellosis, enteropathic E. coli diarrhoea, gram-negative septicaemia, and biliary tract infections.
⚠️ Always consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.
Pharmacology
Pivmecillinam belongs to a newer group of penicillins known as the amdinopenicillins. It is a prodrug of mecillinam, formulated so the drug can be taken by mouth. On its own, the prodrug has no antibacterial effect; once absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, enzymatic hydrolysis converts it into the active drug.
Pivmecillinam is bactericidal, working by disrupting bacterial cell wall synthesis at a site of action distinct from that of other penicillins. It is highly effective against Enterobacteriaceae, including E. coli, Klebsiella, Proteus, Enterobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, and Yersinia. Its activity against Gram-positive organisms is weak, and it likewise has limited effect against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with virtually no activity against Enterococcus faecalis.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Mecillinam concentrations approximately 1/3 of the serum levels have been found in the umbilical cord, and low but detectable amounts in the amniotic fluid. So, use of pivmecillinam in pregnancy should be avoided. Mecillinam is not excreted into the milk of lactating mother
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Dosage Reference
⚠️ Reference ranges from official sources only. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.