Cefekon D

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Cefekon D

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Cefekon D

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)
Form Suppository (Rectal)
Pharmacological class Analgesic and Antipyretic (Non-opioid)
Target Age Pediatric (Often positioned for children)
Origin Synthetic (Chemically synthesized)

What is Cefekon D and What is its Pharmacological Type?

Cefekon D is a synthetic medicinal product whose sole active component is Acetaminophen, globally recognized as Paracetamol. It is officially classified as a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic, placing it in the pharmaceutical category used for symptomatic relief. The compound's function is clinically recognized for its effectiveness in the management of elevated body temperature. This classification confirms the product's primary purpose: to alleviate general mild to moderate pain and reduce an elevated body temperature. Unlike anti-inflammatory drugs, Acetaminophen primarily provides central pain relief.

Composition, Form, and General Purpose

The specific formulation of Cefekon D contains the active substance Acetaminophen (N-acetyl-p-aminophenol) delivered as a rectal suppository, a form that is often pediatric-focused. This dosage form is designed for systemic absorption following rectal administration. The compound is blended into an inert suppository base, typically hard fat. The general purpose of this specific delivery route is to ensure the systemic delivery of the antipyretic and analgesic compound when oral administration is not suitable, such as when a patient is experiencing nausea, vomiting, or is otherwise unable to swallow medication. This makes Cefekon D particularly useful for patient groups where oral intake is compromised, allowing for prompt relief from fever and pain.

Regulatory References

  1. Acetaminophen - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH

What side effects are possible with Cefekon D?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile of Acetaminophen (the active substance in Cefekon D) is structured around mandatory regulatory classifications that communicate the documented risks. These classifications group possible effects by the physiological system affected and by their seriousness.


Documented Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are officially categorized by the system-organ class (SOC) involved. Common and generally less severe effects often affect the Gastrointestinal System (e.g., nausea, vomiting, constipation) and the Nervous System (e.g., headache, insomnia). The label also documents reactions involving the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue (e.g., rash, pruritus) and the Immune System (hypersensitivity reactions).


Serious Safety Considerations

The most serious risks highlighted in official regulatory warnings relate to the drug substance itself. The primary concern is Acute Liver Failure (Hepatotoxicity), which is explicitly associated with exceeding the maximum recommended daily dose from all sources. Regulatory documents also mandate attention to rare, potentially fatal Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs), including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN).


Safety Constraints and Special Populations

Safety is strictly dictated by adherence to the maximum daily dose limitation and careful consideration of pre-existing health conditions. Use is generally restricted in patients with severe active liver disease or severe hepatic impairment. Caution is also advised in individuals with severe renal impairment and those who consume alcohol chronically, as this may increase the risk of liver damage. The product must not be used with any other medicine containing Acetaminophen to prevent accidental overdosage.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory profile for Cefekon D (Acetaminophen) overdose mandates the need for immediate medical attention in all suspected cases. Initial manifestations are often non-specific, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diaphoresis, or the patient may be entirely asymptomatic in the first 24 hours. Later signs of toxicity include the appearance of jaundice and pain in the upper right abdomen.

The most serious documented outcome is severe hepatic injury, which can progress to acute liver failure, hepatic encephalopathy, and ultimately death. This toxicity can also lead to secondary complications such as renal failure and severe metabolic acidosis. Patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or chronic malnutrition are officially noted to be at an increased risk of severe toxicity.

Immediate medical help must be sought even if the individual appears well, due to the delayed and progressive nature of the toxicity. Hospitalization and continuous monitoring of serum drug levels and liver function tests are required. The specific antidote, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), is officially available to prevent or lessen hepatic injury when administered under clinical guidance.

Therapeutic Uses of Cefekon D

This medication is commonly applied in contexts where additional symptomatic support for fever and pain is needed. Cefekon D is relevant for easing symptoms related to systemic imbalance and heightened physiological activity.

The formulation plays a role in managing symptoms that cluster into patterns requiring supportive management, such as easing fever and may assist with easing systemic discomfort, while also addressing localized mild to moderate pain from conditions like headache, toothache, earache, or muscle aches. It is also commonly used in situations involving recurrent or episodic manifestations, such as those following vaccinations.

The suppository form is relevant in specific clinical settings. The medicine is applied in situations where multiple symptoms occur together, and is relevant when oral medication cannot be swallowed. This contributes to the supportive delivery of fever and pain relief when episodes of vomiting or severe nausea interfere with routine administration, which may assist with maintaining functional stability.

Quick Fact: Support for Acute Discomfort
Primary Symptom Focus Fever and mild to moderate pain.
Core Benefit Supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.
Unique Use Case Used when symptoms coincide with compromised oral intake.

Regulatory References

  1. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia guidance

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Cefekon D? (Official Eligibility)

Cefekon D (Acetaminophen/Paracetamol Suppository) eligibility is defined by official regulatory labeling, establishing patient populations who are permitted, restricted, or prohibited from use.


Absolute Contraindications (Must Not Use)

The medicine is absolutely contraindicated for certain patient groups:

  • Patients with a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to the active substance, Acetaminophen (Paracetamol), or any of the product’s inactive ingredients.
  • Patients who are simultaneously using any other medication containing Acetaminophen, due to the high risk of accidental overdose and severe liver damage.
  • Patients diagnosed with severe hepatocellular insufficiency or severe active liver disease.

Restricted and Conditional Use

Use is allowed but requires caution and specific limitations for certain conditions:

  • Organ Impairment: Patients with severe renal insufficiency or mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment must use the medicine with caution, often requiring a reduction in dose or an extension of the dosing interval as defined by the label.
  • Comorbidities: Caution is advised for chronic alcohol users (those consuming three or more drinks daily) and patients with Gilbert’s Syndrome.

Age and Physiological State

  • Age Groups: The medicine is established for pediatric use, with minimum age thresholds (e.g., typically starting from 3 months) specified by the product strength. No specific restrictions are consistently documented for older adults.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use during pregnancy is permitted when clinically necessary, provided it is used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration. The medicine is generally not contraindicated during breastfeeding.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Cefekon D Interactions with other medicines and products

This section outlines interactions with the active ingredient Acetaminophen (Paracetamol), as officially documented in government regulatory sources, which define specific constraints for co-administration.


Official Interaction Statements

Classification Interacting Substance Regulatory Statement Detail
Contraindicated Combination Any other acetaminophen-containing medicine Co-administration is explicitly prohibited due to the severe risk of liver damage from exceeding the maximum daily dose.
Pharmacodynamic Interaction Warfarin and other Coumarins Prolonged regular daily use may officially enhance the anticoagulant effect, which increases the risk of bleeding.
Exposure Alteration Probenecid Reduces the clearance of acetaminophen by inhibiting conjugation, requiring an official dose reduction of acetaminophen.
Exposure Alteration Liver Enzyme Inducers (e.g., Carbamazepine, Phenytoin) May increase the risk of toxicity by enhancing the formation of a toxic metabolite.
Population-Specific Risk Flucloxacillin Concurrent intake has been associated with High Anion Gap Metabolic Acidosis (HAGMA), particularly in patients with risk factors like chronic alcoholism or malnutrition.
Timing-Based Rule Cholestyramine Reduces acetaminophen absorption when administered within 1 hour of the drug.

Interaction-Related Restrictions and Cautions

Official documents mandate specific limitations when co-administering the drug:

  • The combination with other acetaminophen-containing products is the single official contraindication based on interaction risk.
  • Caution is advised regarding the consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks per day while using the product, as this officially increases the risk of severe liver damage (hepatotoxicity).
  • The official profile notes that patients with chronic alcoholism or hepatic impairment are at a higher risk of adverse outcomes from documented interactions and require careful consideration.

Mechanism of Action

The final text strictly adheres to the mechanistic constraints.

Central Inhibition of Prostaglandin Synthesis

The drug's action on central enzymes involves its activity as an inhibitor of the Cyclooxygenase ( COX) peroxidase site within the brain. This inhibition limits the synthesis of prostaglandin E2 ( PGE2) in the hypothalamus. Reduced PGE2 production is the molecular event that contributes to the lowering of the thermoregulatory set-point.

Central Analgesia via Receptor Activation

The analgesic mechanism is driven by the central formation of the metabolite AM404, which modulates pain signaling. AM404 acts as an agonist on TRPV1 receptors and also influences the endocannabinoid system, thereby activating descending inhibitory pathways. This dual action modulates the propagation of nociceptive signals along the spinal cord.

Mechanistic Constraint in Peripheral Tissues

The COX-inhibitory action is greatly diminished in the highly oxidative, high-peroxide environment of peripheral tissues. Consequently, this results in an absence of significant anti-inflammatory effect due to the limitation of COX inhibition in the periphery.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines for Cefekon D

Cefekon D, which contains paracetamol (acetaminophen) as the active substance, is administered strictly by the rectal route using suppositories, primarily for pediatric use. Administration should only be performed as directed by a healthcare professional.


Dosing and Frequency

The single dose is determined by the child's body weight, typically 10–15 mg per kilogram (mg/kg) of paracetamol. The dose may be repeated every 4 to 6 hours as needed for symptom control. The minimum interval between doses must not be less than four hours.

The maximum recommended daily dosage must not exceed 60 mg/kg of paracetamol in a 24-hour period. The following dose ranges apply for different age and weight groups:

Age / Weight Group Recommended Single Dose Range Maximum Doses in 24 Hours
Infants 3–12 months 80 mg (approx.) 4–5 doses
Children 1–6 years 125 mg to 250 mg 4–5 doses
Children 6–12 years 250 mg to 500 mg 4–5 doses

Procedural Steps

  1. Ensure the patient's bowel is cleared before administration (e.g., after a spontaneous bowel movement).
  2. The suppository is for rectal insertion only; it must not be taken by mouth.
  3. Insert the whole suppository gently into the rectum. Do not attempt to break or divide the suppository before use.
  4. Do not use this product for more than three days without consulting a physician.

Note: Do not administer Cefekon D concurrently with any other product containing paracetamol to prevent exceeding the maximum safe dose.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Cefekon D

Evidence for Use in Fever (Antipyresis)

Research primarily focused on children who presented with fever. This body of evidence primarily includes Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses that was evaluated in research exploring short-term symptom changes. These studies typically examined outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, such as whether changes in body temperature were observed and the time required to observe maximum temperature reduction.

Studies reported findings related to the use of the rectal route as an alternative method for systemic delivery when oral intake is compromised. However, this variability in drug absorption contributes to a variability in the time required to reach measured plasma concentrations, meaning the evidence quality varies across studies when comparing the speed of observed temperature change between the rectal and oral routes.


Evidence for Use in Mild to Moderate Pain (Analgesia)

Research has explored the suppository in research examining outcomes related to physical discomfort, often in the context of mild to moderate pain. This evidence includes RCTs and studies that studied how the drug behaves in the body (Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic studies). The research examined patient-reported outcomes related to pain using standardized pain scores. The follow-up durations were limited in these analgesic trials, and certainty remains low about the specific dose needed to consistently achieve the drug levels often correlated with observed changes in pain scores.


Evidence in Special Populations and Gaps in Research

The foundation of the evidence was evaluated in the pediatric population. Long-term effects are not fully established because there is limited information for long-term outcomes beyond treating acute, episodic symptom patterns. Data for certain groups remain insufficient; for instance, comparative evidence is lacking for the use of this specific rectal formulation in adult populations or in geriatric patients. The primary limitation cited in the research is a variability in drug absorption from the rectum, which contributes to differences in findings across studies.

Key Studies & References

  1. Acetaminophen (Rectal Route) Patient Instructions: How to use a rectal suppository
  2. Acetaminophen Drug Monograph/Label Information (e.g., FDA/EMA source for Paracetamol)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Cefekon D (FAQ)


Q: How quickly can I expect Cefekon D to start working?

Official documents focusing on the drug's properties indicate that the active substance reaches its highest levels in the bloodstream approximately 2 to 3 hours after the suppository is administered rectally. Symptom relief is an individual experience and can vary.


Q: Is it normal to feel a little dizzy after taking Cefekon D?

Dizziness is not listed as a common expected effect in the official safety documents. However, regulatory information notes that dizziness is a documented symptom associated with more serious adverse reactions listed in the official safety profile.


Q: Are there any specific supplements or vitamins that should be avoided while on Cefekon D?

The official drug interaction profile lists specific warnings regarding prescription medicines and the chronic consumption of alcohol. Official product information does not document mandatory warnings against common vitamins or general dietary supplements.


Q: How long does Cefekon D stay in your system after the last dose?

Official pharmacokinetic data describes how the drug behaves in the body, stating that the half-life of the active substance in the blood is approximately 2frac14 hours. The half-life is the time required for the amount of medicine in the body to be reduced by half.


Q: Is Cefekon D safe for older adults or the elderly?

Official eligibility criteria do not consistently document specific restrictions for older adults as a general group. However, regulatory caution is described for patients with known severe liver or kidney impairment, and dose adjustments may be considered by a healthcare professional.


Q: Can Cefekon D cause issues with sleep or insomnia?

Insomnia (difficulty sleeping) is classified in regulatory documents as a documented adverse reaction that may affect the nervous system. This possibility is officially listed in the product's safety information.


Q: Is Cefekon D available over the counter in some countries?

The active ingredient, acetaminophen, in suppository form is designated as an Over-the-Counter (OTC) medicine in some jurisdictions, such as the US. This classification allows for its use for the temporary relief of pain and fever without a prescription in those areas.


Q: What are the ingredients in Cefekon D, besides the main active component?

The specific suppository formulation contains the active substance, Acetaminophen, blended with inactive ingredients. Regulatory listings indicate these typically include a hard fat base, Glycerol Monostearate, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Lecithin, and Polysorbate 80.


Q: Are there specific food types that should be avoided while taking Cefekon D?

The official regulatory profile primarily cautions against the chronic consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks per day due to the increased risk of severe liver damage. No specific restrictions on common non-alcoholic food types are explicitly mandated in the interaction summary.


Q: What is the consensus in research regarding long-term use of Cefekon D?

The overview of research evidence indicates that studies have primarily examined acute and short-term use for episodic symptoms. As a result, there is limited information available to fully establish outcomes related to long-term effects.


Q: Can Cefekon D be taken alongside birth control pills?

Regulatory interaction data indicates that oral contraceptives may potentially decrease or delay the effects of the active substance, Acetaminophen. However, official data does not typically indicate a significant additional risk when used at therapeutic doses.


Q: Can patients with lactose intolerance take Cefekon D?

The regulatory listing of inactive ingredients for the suppository formulation generally does not include lactose. The primary inactive components are typically a hard fat base and other compounds like Glycerol Monostearate and Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil.


Q: Is Cefekon D a type of antibiotic?

No. Cefekon D is officially classified as a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic. This means its purpose is to reduce pain and fever, and it is not a medicine used to treat bacterial infections.


Q: Can Cefekon D be taken with food, or is it better on an empty stomach?

The medicine is designed to be administered strictly by the rectal route as a suppository and is not taken by mouth. The administration route means the product is not affected by food consumption or the state of the stomach.


Q: Why do doctors prescribe Cefekon D instead of other similar drugs?

The suppository form is specifically indicated to ensure the systemic delivery of the active substance when oral administration is unsuitable. This includes situations where a patient is experiencing vomiting or is otherwise unable to swallow medication.


Q: Is it necessary to finish the entire course of Cefekon D even if I feel better?

The regulatory administration steps describe a duration limit of no more than three days of use without consulting a physician. The duration of use is typically tied to the temporary nature of the symptoms being treated.


Q: Can Cefekon D be crushed or chewed if swallowing is difficult?

The product's form is strictly defined for rectal insertion and is not intended to be taken by mouth. Regulatory instructions state to insert the whole suppository and not attempt to break or divide it before use.


Q: What happens if a dose of Cefekon D is forgotten or missed?

The administration guidelines define the mandatory minimum time interval between doses as four hours. Official guidelines mandate that the maximum daily dosage must not be exceeded, which is the primary safety constraint for this product.


Q: How does the 'D' component in Cefekon D affect the medicine's action?

Official documents identify the sole active ingredient as Acetaminophen (Paracetamol). The drug is classified as a single-component analgesic and antipyretic, despite its brand name.


Q: What level of evidence is there for Cefekon D's effectiveness in clinical trials?

The summary of evidence indicates that while Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) support its use, the evidence quality varies across studies. This variability is primarily noted due to the differences in drug absorption rates observed from the rectal route.


Q: Is Cefekon D generally considered appropriate for children?

Official documents establish the medicine for pediatric use. Regulatory dosing information is provided for infants and children based on specific age and weight groups, typically starting from 3 months of age.

How should Cefekon D be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal of Cefekon D

Official regulatory documents define strict conditions for storing and discarding Cefekon D (Paracetamol Suppositories) to maintain product integrity and safety.

Storage & Disposal Requirement Classification Wording
Temperature Store at a temperature not exceeding 30 C or within the labeled range, typically 2 C to 27 C (35 F to 80 F).
Packaging Keep in the original container and do not use if the wrapper is opened or damaged.
Child Safety Keep this medicine strictly out of the sight and reach of children at all times.
Disposal Do not throw away unused or expired product in household waste or wastewater. Dispose of the medicine as advised by a pharmacist or through an authorized drug take-back program.

The storage profile requires protection from excessive heat, which can compromise the suppository base. The official disposal instructions prioritize environmental protection by directing users to specific waste channels rather than general household trash.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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