| Common Brands | Ceclor (brand name no longer available) |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Cephalosporin antibiotic |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Cefaclor is a broad-spectrum antibiotic drug in the category of cephalosporins. It inhibits the growth of bacteria and is used to treat several types of bacterial infections. It is effective on many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and is thus widely prescribed for respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and several others.
Cefaclor is available in oral forms, either typically as capsules or in a liquid suspension. Normally prescribed when a doctor is establishing that an infection is caused by bacteria who are susceptible to the medication.
Cefaclor is administered orally in the form of a capsule or liquid suspension. Here are general instructions on how to use it:
Take as prescribed: Take cefaclor exactly as prescribed by your doctor. This includes taking the right dosage and following the prescribed duration of treatment.
With or without food: Cefaclor can be taken with or without food. However, if it causes stomach upset, it may be helpful to take it with food.
Even if you feel good before the prescribed course ends, complete the full treatment as the infection should not remain there for too long. Moreover, prevention of resistance is important too.
Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
It acts through inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. Bacteria are enveloped by a rigid cell wall that assists in holding the bacteria together in shape and integrity. The interference of enzymes responsible for the building of the cell wall by cefaclor weakens it and results in lysis (destruction) of the bacteria. Because humans do not have cell walls, cefaclor is targeted to affect bacterial cells but not the human cells, which explains why it can be useful for bacterial infections.
Cefaclor is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that kills many different types of bacteria, though not all bacteria are susceptible to this drug. Some bacterial species may develop resistance to cefaclor. It is therefore important that a healthcare provider determine which antibiotic would be appropriate based on the type of infection and results of a culture or sensitivity test.
Common side effects experienced by patients who take this drug include:
Gastrointestinal problems: These side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Skin reactions: Rashes or itchy skin are likely but generally mild.
Severe allergic reactions are a side effect of this drug in a small proportion of people. However, if it happens, one needs to be in emergency after symptoms such as tight chest, swelling of face and lips, throat or breathing problems, severe rash
Liver problems: Cefaclor may cause some elevation of liver enzymes or even liver damage in a few cases. The symptoms to look out for are yellowing of the skin or eyes, which is known as jaundice, dark urine, or persistent nausea.
Serious gastrointestinal reactions: These include bloody or watery diarrhea, which may indicate a more serious infection such as Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.
Severe allergic reactions: It includes symptomatology such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and rashes. These require immediate medical attention
If any of these side effects occur, a healthcare provider should be contacted immediately
Allergic reactions: Patients having a known allergy to penicillins or any other cephalosporins should be avoided by cefaclor due to the potential cross-reactivity between these drugs.
Kidney disease: Cefaclor should be used with caution in patients with kidney problems, as the drug is excreted through the kidneys. Dose adjustments may be required in these patients.
Pregnancy and lactation: Cefaclor is classified as a category B drug during pregnancy, which means it is relatively safe for the fetus. However, the medication should only be taken when absolutely necessary and by the prescription of a doctor. Cefaclor passes into breast milk; hence, mothers who are nursing should discuss the risks and benefits with their health provider.
Superinfection: Prolonged use of cefaclor can lead to superinfection, where resistant bacteria overgrow and cause secondary infections. Regular monitoring is important if cefaclor is used for extended periods.
Cefaclor interacts with other drugs. Some of the major drug interactions include:
Anticoagulants (blood thinners): Cefaclor may enhance the risk of bleeding when it is combined with anticoagulants such as warfarin. Blood clotting parameters should be closely monitored.
Probenecid: This medication, prescribed for gout, enhances the blood concentration of cefaclor through reducing the excretion of the latter through the kidneys, thus its dosages need to be adjusted.
Other antibiotics: The concurrent use of other antibiotics with cefaclor reduces the effectiveness of either or increases the chances of adverse effects.
It is very important to discuss with your health care provider all medications that you are currently taking, including non-prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements, in order to prevent possible interactions.
The dosage of cefaclor depends on the specific infection being treated, the patient’s age, and any pre-existing health conditions. Common dosages include:
For adults with respiratory tract infections: 250 mg every 8 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours.
Dosages include
For urinary tract infections: 250 mg every 8 hours.
For skin and soft tissue infections, dose range 250 mg every 8 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours. The pediatric doses are age-dependent and administered based on weight for this type of infection. So always direct a child in your custody to follow your doctor strictly.
Cefaclor is available by prescription only, and a healthcare provider will need to evaluate the patient’s condition before prescribing it. It is important to inform the doctor about any pre-existing health conditions, allergies, or medications being taken to ensure that cefaclor is the right choice for treatment.
Cefaclor is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.
It treats respiratory tract infections, skin infections, ear infections, and urinary tract infections.
It kills bacteria by interfering with their cell wall synthesis.
No, it is only effective against bacterial infections.
Tablets, capsules, and oral suspension (liquid).
Dosage depends on infection type and age; commonly 250-500 mg every 8 hours for adults.
Yes, adjusted doses are available for pediatric patients.
Diarrhea, nausea, rash, and allergic reactions are common side effects.
Yes, especially in people allergic to penicillin or other cephalosporins.
Symptoms usually improve within 2-3 days of starting treatment.
Yes, to prevent antibiotic resistance and ensure full infection clearance.
Yes, it can be taken with or without food, though food may reduce stomach upset.
It may interact with antacids or certain blood thinners; consult a doctor.
It is generally considered safe but consult your doctor.
Yes, prolonged use may lead to these conditions.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Take it as soon as possible, but skip if near the next dose; do not double dose.
Yes, it is commonly prescribed for otitis media.
No, it requires a prescription.
Inform about allergies, kidney problems, other medications, and pregnancy status.
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