Полимик

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Полимик

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Method of action: Antiprotozoal

Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

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 Полимик

Property Description
Active ingredient Ofloxacin, Ornidazole
Form Oral Solid Preparation (Tablet)
Pharmacological class Antimicrobial Combination
Common purpose Targeting mixed bacterial and protozoal infections
Origin Synthetic Chemotherapeutic Agents

Полимик is a fixed-dose combination medication containing two distinct synthetic chemotherapeutic agents, Ofloxacin and Ornidazole, designed for systemic administration to fight mixed infections. This formulation is typically available as a prescription-only medicine, underscoring its potency and the necessity of medical supervision. Its composition places it in the high-level class of antimicrobial combination agents, specifically formulated to provide broad-spectrum coverage.


What Type of Antimicrobial Agent is Полимик?

Полимик is classified as an antimicrobial combination agent because it merges two active substances from distinct pharmacological classes to increase its effective range. This medicine is an oral solid preparation, typically provided in tablet form, ensuring the active ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream for a systemic effect against pathogens throughout the body. The two primary ingredients, Ofloxacin and Ornidazole, are synthetic chemotherapeutic agents, meaning they are created in a lab rather than being derived from natural sources. Ofloxacin is categorized as a fluoroquinolone antibacterial agent, while Ornidazole belongs to the nitroimidazole antiprotozoal class, a pharmacological pairing clinically recognized for its extended efficacy against co-existing pathogens.


The Rationale for Combining Ofloxacin and Ornidazole

The combination is created to provide a dual destruction capability, making the medicine effective against complex or mixed infections involving both bacterial pathogens and protozoal pathogens simultaneously. This synergistic activity means the medicine works by two separate but critical mechanisms, leading to the destruction of the infectious organisms. This unique pairing is often necessary for infections where the responsible organisms are difficult to isolate or when there is a known risk of a co-infection.

What side effects are possible with Полимик?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information for Полимик

Полимик (Polymyxin B or E class) is associated with risks of significant adverse reactions, primarily affecting the kidneys and the nervous system. Due to these potential toxicities, the use of this medication is typically reserved for serious, multi-drug resistant infections when alternative, less toxic treatments are ineffective.

Key Adverse Reactions

The most serious documented adverse effects fall into the categories of Nephrotoxicity (damage to the kidneys) and Neurotoxicity (damage to the nervous system). Both of these toxicities are generally considered dose-dependent and may be more likely in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.

  • Nephrotoxicity: Manifestations can include acute kidney injury, decreased urine output, albuminuria, and a rise in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) or creatinine levels. Renal function must be monitored closely before and during treatment.
  • Neurotoxicity: Symptoms may involve peripheral paresthesia (tingling or numbness, especially around the mouth or extremities), dizziness, vertigo, slurred speech, confusion, and, in severe cases, respiratory paralysis due to neuromuscular blockade. The risk of respiratory paralysis is increased with concurrent use of neuromuscular blocking agents.

Other Documented Reactions

Other adverse reactions that have been reported include flushing of the face, drug fever, local pain or irritation at the injection site, and skin reactions such as rash or urticaria. As with most antibiotics, there is a risk of developing Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), which can range from mild diarrhea to severe or fatal colitis.

System-Organ Class Examples of Documented Adverse Reactions
Renal Acute kidney injury, albuminuria, azotemia
Nervous System Paresthesia, dizziness, slurred speech, ataxia (loss of coordination)
General Disorders Fever, injection site reactions

Safety Restrictions and Monitoring

Particular caution is required for use in patients with compromised renal function or myasthenia gravis, or those receiving other drugs known to be nephrotoxic or neurotoxic. Official safety requirements mandate that the patient's renal function be assessed and monitored regularly throughout the course of therapy. There is limited established safety data regarding use during pregnancy.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Overdose with PoliMik’s active components, Ofloxacin and Ornidazole, is officially documented in regulatory information as capable of causing significant adverse effects. Documented Central Nervous System (CNS) manifestations include dizziness, confusion, tremor, hallucinations, psychotic reactions, and loss of consciousness. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and gastric mucosal erosions are also listed. Severe and potentially life-threatening outcomes reported in official documents include convulsive seizures, acute renal failure, and hepatic failure. Furthermore, prolongation of the QT interval is a documented physiological finding that carries a risk of serious ventricular arrhythmias.

Immediate medical attention must be sought for any suspected overdose, and contacting emergency services immediately is required due to the need for observation and management. Management is strictly symptomatic and supportive, as no specific antidote is known for this combination. Officially described procedures may include gastric lavage and the administration of activated charcoal. Hospital management requires continuous cardiac monitoring (ECG) and the monitoring of renal and liver function. Heightened monitoring is explicitly needed for patients with pre-existing CNS disorders and severe renal impairment.

Therapeutic Uses of Полимик

What Полимик Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The primary therapeutic use of this medication is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms. This approach is considered relevant when short-term symptomatic assistance is needed in managing conditions presenting with significant discomfort.

This combination is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes in domains such as gastrointestinal infections (diarrhea, dysentery), urogenital and pelvic tract infections (including PID), and complex skin and soft tissue infections (like abscesses and infected ulcers). It helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, such as severe abdominal cramping, localized pain, inflammation, and discharge.

The medication plays a role in managing symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states, contributing to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms. The application is relevant in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, especially in contexts involving complex microbial activity.

Quick Fact: Relief for Mixed Infection Symptoms

This combination supports the resolution of the underlying cause, which ultimately contributes to a more manageable experience and helps to improve day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods.

Regulatory References

  1. National Agency for Food & Drug Administration & Control (NAFDAC) Summary of Product Characteristics

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Полимик?

This section details the official population eligibility and non-eligibility rules for Полимик (Ofloxacin/Ornidazole) as defined by government regulatory authorities.


Absolute Contraindications

The medicine is strictly contraindicated in several patient populations due to established risks or lack of data:

  • Patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to Ofloxacin, Ornidazole, or any drug in the fluoroquinolone or nitroimidazole classes.
  • Individuals with a history of epilepsy, other conditions that lower the seizure threshold, or tendon disorders related to prior fluoroquinolone use.
  • Pregnant women and breastfeeding women.
  • Children and growing adolescents.

Populations Requiring Caution or Restriction

Use of Полимик is conditional in several adult populations and requires special regulatory consideration:

  • Patients with impaired renal function or impaired hepatic function require caution and may necessitate dosage modification.
  • Patients over 60 years of age must use caution due to an elevated risk of tendon rupture.
  • Caution is advised for patients with Myasthenia Gravis or known risk factors for QT interval prolongation (e.g., congenital long QT syndrome).

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This fixed-dose combination contains two active agents, Ofloxacin and Ornidazole, and its interaction profile is structured by official information from regulatory documents.

Interaction-Related Restrictions

  • Alcohol (Ethanol) is formally contraindicated with this medicine. Regulatory labeling strictly prohibits co-ingestion during treatment and for a period of up to 72 hours after the last dose.
  • Timing Separation: Products containing polyvalent cations such as aluminum, magnesium, calcium (e.g., in antacids), sucralfate, and supplements with iron or zinc must not be taken within the two-hour period before or after this medication to prevent significant reduction in Ofloxacin absorption.

Officially Documented Interactions

Substance / Class Official Regulatory Statement
Vitamin K Antagonists (e.g., Warfarin) Use may potentiate the anticoagulant effect, increasing coagulation tests (INR/PT) and bleeding risk.
Theophylline Ofloxacin may prolong the half-life and elevate serum concentrations due to metabolic clearance inhibition.
Cimetidine Documented to decrease plasma clearance of Ornidazole, increasing its systemic exposure.
NSAIDs (e.g., Fenbufen) Co-administration with Ofloxacin may increase neuroexcitatory activities, lowering the cerebral seizure threshold.
QT-Prolonging Drugs Use requires caution due to the documented potential for additive QTc prolongation risk.

Population Note: Official labeling notes that Ofloxacin clearance is reduced in patients with renal impairment, which is a pharmacokinetic factor that may intensify the effects of certain interactions.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action for Полимик is initiated by its selective binding to defined biological targets, specifically certain receptors or enzyme systems. This high-affinity interaction is the foundational molecular step, designed to initiate or block specific signaling events at the cellular level. This binding activity results in an immediate adjustment of the relevant pathway dynamics.

Once engaged, Полимик modulates signal transduction within key molecular cascades. The drug's mechanism involves dampening excessive or dysregulated signaling patterns, which results in an adjustment of activity within central or peripheral physiological pathways. This targeted pathway interference contributes to the modulation of overactive physiological responses. This action limits the downstream influence of excessive mediator activity, establishing a modulated state within the targeted systems, which ultimately defines the mechanism's physiological consequence.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Полимик

This section describes the standard administration protocol for the fixed-dose combination (FDC) of Ofloxacin 200 mg and Ornidazole 500 mg.


Standard Dosing and Administration

Полимик is designed for systemic administration and is indicated for the oral route only, supplied as a tablet. The standard adult regimen requires taking one tablet twice daily (BID).

To ensure consistent systemic concentrations, the two doses per day should be separated by approximately equal intervals (e.g., 12 hours). The typical duration for a course of treatment usually ranges from 5 to 10 days, depending on the specific condition being managed.


Administration Conditions and Constraints

Tablets must be taken with or immediately after food (meals) to support tolerability and should be swallowed whole. It is a mandatory instruction that the tablet must not be crushed, chewed, or broken before ingestion.

Population-Specific Instructions:

Patient Population Dosing Instruction
Severe Hepatic Impairment The dosing interval must be doubled due to altered drug clearance.
Renal Impairment No dose adjustment is deemed necessary for the Ornidazole component.

These instructions define the standardized procedure for using the medicine, focusing solely on the route, schedule, and specific intake requirements.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Полимик

The Ofloxacin-Ornidazole combination was evaluated in research exploring acute gastrointestinal infections, such as mixed infectious diarrhea, dysentery, and gastroenteritis. Research primarily involved short-term, randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and comparative studies. Researchers examined outcomes related to systemic imbalance and patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort. Studies also monitored laboratory-confirmed microbiological outcomes (pathogen detection levels).

Studies documented observed patterns where measurements for the combination were within the range reported for other antimicrobial regimens used in similar settings. However, the evidence is characterized by regional differences, and global certainty remains low regarding the fixed-dose combination approach. Limited information for long-term outcomes exists, particularly concerning the prevention of recurrence or the full characterization of antimicrobial resistance development after treatment.


The combination was evaluated in clinical trials and comparative studies aimed at addressing mixed infections of the urogenital and pelvic tracts, including specific studies relevant to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). This research explored clinical metrics, such as the overall clinical response rate, alongside laboratory assessments of microbiological outcomes. The inclusion of the combination in some regulatory summaries suggests research explored this area, based on the established activity of the individual components against the likely causative organisms.

Research was studied for the combination in other distinct clinical areas, such as its use as an adjunct in dental infections and its application in certain skin and soft tissue infections, including studies focusing on adults with comorbidities like diabetes. Sample sizes were modest in many localized trials, meaning results apply only to the populations studied.


Clinical data focusing on the combination is primarily derived from adult populations. Data for certain groups remain insufficient. For instance, there is generally limited information from published, dedicated clinical trials specifically addressing the combination's use in children, older adults, or pregnant populations. Follow-up durations were limited across the research base, contributing to the fact that long-term outcomes are not fully established.

Key Studies & References National Agency for Food & Drug Administration & Control (NAFDAC) Summary of Product Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Полимик (FAQ)

Q: Чем Полимик отличается от других лекарств для лечения инфекций?

A: Polymik is formulated as a fixed-dose combination, meaning it contains two distinct active ingredients: an antibacterial agent (ofloxacin) and an antiprotozoal agent (ornidazole). This dual composition provides a broad spectrum of activity against mixed infections caused by both bacteria and protozoa, which is the primary distinguishing feature noted in regulatory documentation.

Q: Может ли Полимик вызвать аллергическую реакцию?

A: Yes, official product information indicates that Polymik can cause hypersensitivity reactions, including skin reactions such as rash or urticaria. A known history of hypersensitivity or allergy to either of the active components (ofloxacin or ornidazole) or their related drug classes (fluoroquinolones or nitroimidazoles) is listed in official documentation as an absolute contraindication.

Q: Можно ли принимать Полимик вместе с обезболивающими?

A: Regulatory warnings note that co-administration of Polymik with Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as fenbufen, may increase the risk of neuroexcitatory events (effects on the nervous system). This combination is typically restricted. Official information does not generally list specific interactions with common non-NSAID painkillers.

Q: Можно ли Полимик детям? С какого возраста?

A: Polymik is strictly contraindicated for use in children and growing adolescents, as confirmed by regulatory authorities. This restriction is due to insufficient safety data and potential risks of serious adverse effects in this age group. Official documentation for this fixed dose combination does not specify an approved minimum age.

Q: Что делать, если пропустил прием Полимика?

A: Regulatory guidance for a missed dose generally states that the dose should be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose is typically skipped, and the regular schedule is resumed. It is generally advised that a double dose should not be taken to compensate for a missed dose.

Q: Как долго можно принимать Полимик без перерыва?

A: The typical duration for a course of treatment with Polymik, as defined in official regulatory documents, usually ranges from 5 to 10 days. The precise length of the treatment course is determined by the prescribing doctor, and the medicine should not be taken longer than the prescribed duration.

Q: Нужен ли рецепт, чтобы купить Полимик?

A: Yes, Polymik is classified as a prescription-only medicine in official documentation. It is intended for systemic use and must be obtained with a prescription.

Q: Почему Полимик иногда назначают в паре с пробиотиками?

A: While direct co-administration is not strictly mandated, regulatory documents warn that Polymik, like other antibiotics, carries a risk of causing diarrhea associated with Clostridioides difficile. The potential for the medicine to disrupt the natural balance of gut flora may be a reason why probiotics are considered in certain clinical settings.

Q: Есть ли аналоги Полимика с тем же составом?

A: Polymik is a trade name for a specific fixed-dose combination containing ofloxacin and ornidazole. Since the active substances are known, other manufacturers may produce generic versions containing the same drug components. These equivalent products would be subject to their own respective regulatory approvals.

Q: Можно ли принимать Полимик, если у меня хроническое заболевание?

A: Patients with chronic conditions, such as known history of epilepsy, tendon disorders, myasthenia gravis, or existing kidney or liver impairment, require special caution. Official documentation states that the use of this medicine requires careful consideration by a physician in these populations, which may necessitate dosage modifications or close monitoring.

Q: Полимик лечит только бактериальные инфекции или вирусные тоже?

A: Polymik is effective against infections caused by susceptible bacteria and protozoa, thanks to its two active components. Official information confirms that, like other antimicrobial agents in its class, Polymik is not effective against viral infections, such as the common cold or influenza.

Q: Какие необычные или редкие побочные эффекты могут возникнуть?

A: Regulatory documents list several serious, though rare, adverse reactions, especially those related to the fluoroquinolone component. These include tendinitis and tendon rupture, effects on the central nervous system (like seizures or peripheral neuropathy), and serious cardiac issues such as QTc interval prolongation (an electrical irregularity of the heart rhythm).

Q: Нужна ли специальная диета при приеме Полимика?

A: No specific diet is generally required, but regulatory documents contain important restrictions regarding mineral intake. To prevent a significant reduction in the absorption of one of the active agents, it is advised to avoid consuming dairy products and supplements containing polyvalent cations (such as iron, zinc, aluminum, calcium, or magnesium) within a two-hour window before and after taking the medication.

Q: Что произойдет, если принять Полимик дольше, чем прописано?

A: Taking the medication for longer than the prescribed duration increases the risk of developing serious, dose-dependent side effects, particularly neurotoxicity (effects on the nervous system) and nephrotoxicity (kidney damage). Regulatory documents on overdose describe symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, and somnolence.

Q: Почему Полимик не всегда помогает при инфекциях?

A: Treatment failure may occur if the infection is caused by pathogens (bacteria or protozoa) that are resistant to the drug's components, or if the infection is viral, against which the drug is inactive. Additionally, official documents stress that premature discontinuation of the full treatment course is a known factor associated with treatment failure and potential recurrence.

Q: Полимик влияет на результаты анализов крови?

A: Yes, one of the components, ofloxacin, can potentially influence certain laboratory test results. Specifically, it can affect coagulation tests (like INR/PT) in patients taking anticoagulants such as Warfarin. Ofloxacin has also been known to cause false-positive results during urine screening for opiates.

Q: Влияет ли Полимик на способность управлять автомобилем?

A: Official labeling warns that Polymik can cause side effects impacting the central nervous system, including dizziness, visual disturbances, and somnolence (drowsiness). Due to these potential effects, caution is warranted regarding driving or operating machinery during treatment.

Q: Полимик вызывает сонливость или бессонницу?

A: Side effects reported in regulatory documents that affect the central nervous system include both sleep disturbances (such as insomnia or sleeplessness) and increased drowsiness or somnolence. The specific effect can vary between individuals.

Q: Помогает ли Полимик при грибковых заболеваниях?

A: No, Polymik is an antimicrobial combination agent with activity only against certain bacteria and protozoa. It is not formulated to treat fungal infections and is not indicated for such use according to its official pharmacological properties.

Q: Есть ли ограничения по возрасту для пожилых людей при приеме Полимика?

A: While there is no absolute prohibition, regulatory documents advise special caution for patients over 60 years of age. This is due to an elevated risk of severe side effects, including the potential for tendon rupture, necessitating careful monitoring by a healthcare professional.

Q: Можно ли принимать Полимик на голодный желудок?

A: The official administration instructions recommend taking the tablets with or immediately after food (meals). This is advised to improve the tolerability of the medicine and ensure proper absorption; taking the medication on an empty stomach is therefore not generally recommended.

Q: Полимик используется для профилактики чего-либо?

A: The primary use of Polymik is for the treatment of mixed infections. However, the antibacterial component, ofloxacin, may be indicated in regulatory documents for prophylactic (preventative) use in certain specialized clinical contexts, such as some surgical procedures.

Q: Нужно ли прекращать прием Полимика, если почувствовал себя лучше?

A: Regulatory guidance advises against stopping the medication even if symptoms improve or disappear before the full course is finished. Completing the entire course of treatment is important to ensure eradication of the infection and to minimize the risk of developing drug-resistant bacteria.

Q: Может ли Полимик влиять на артериальное давление?

A: Regulatory information indicates that the components of Polymik have been associated with rare cardiovascular side effects. These can include fluctuations in blood pressure, specifically listing both hypotension (low blood pressure) and hypertension (high blood pressure) among the potential adverse reactions.

Q: Есть ли риск развития устойчивости бактерий к Полимику?

A: Yes. Since Polymik includes an antibiotic, there is an inherent risk of bacterial resistance (or drug-resistance) developing. Official documents emphasize that the unnecessary use of the drug or incomplete courses of treatment contribute to increasing this risk.

Q: Какие меры предосторожности нужно соблюдать при приеме Полимика?

A: Official patient information requires several precautions. These include strictly avoiding exposure to direct sunlight and UV light due to potential photosensitivity. It is advised that any signs of tendon pain or inflammation, or any new neurological symptoms such as tingling or numbness, be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.

How should Полимик be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Полимик?

The official regulatory labeling defines specific mandatory conditions for storing this Ofloxacin and Ornidazole combination to ensure its stability and 36-month shelf life.

Storage Requirements

The medicine must be stored at a temperature below 30°C and must be kept protected from both light and moisture. To maintain these conditions, the product should be kept in its original blister and carton. Strict adherence to this environmental control is required to prevent degradation of the active ingredients.

Additionally, for safety, the tablets must be kept out of the reach and sight of children.


Disposal Instructions

Official disposal rules prohibit discarding unused or expired product via household waste or by flushing down the toilet (wastewater). Patients are instructed to consult a pharmacist for guidance on proper disposal. This ensures that the medication is discarded through established pharmaceutical waste channels to protect the environment.

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

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