GENERIC NAME: cefadroxil

BRAND NAME: Duricef

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Cefadroxil is a semi- synthetic oral antibiotic in the cephalosporin family of drugs. The cephalosporin family includes cephalexin (Keflex), cefaclor (Ceclor), cefuroxime (Zinacef), cefpodoxime (Vantin), cefixime (Suprax), and many injectable antibiotics. Cefadroxil is active against many bacteria, including: Staphylococcus. aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes (the cause of strep throat), Moraxella catarrhalis, E. coli, Klebsiella, and Proteus mirabilis.

PRESCRIPTION: yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: no

PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 1 gram; Capsules: 500mg; Suspension: 125 mg/teaspoon; 250 mg/teaspoon, 500 mg/teaspoon.

STORAGE: Tablets and capsules should be kept at 15 ° to 30°C (59° to 86°F). The suspension should be refrigerated and discarded after 14 days.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Cefadroxil is effective against susceptible bacteria causing infections of the urinary tract, skin and soft- tissue as well as pharyngitis, and laryngitis.

DOSING: Cefadroxil is taken once or twice daily, depending on the nature and severity of the infection. The tablets can be taken with or without food. The suspension should always be shaken prior to each dose. Patients with advanced kidney diseases may need lower doses.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: There are no known clinically important drug interactions with cefadroxil.

PREGNANCY: There are no adequate studies of cefadroxil in pregnant women. However, studies in animals suggest no important effects on the fetus. Cefadroxil, therefore, can be used in pregnancy if the physician feels that it is necessary.

NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known if cefadroxil is secreted in breast milk.

SIDE EFFECTS: Cefadroxil is generally well-tolerated. The most common side effects are diarrhea or loose stools, nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Rarer side effects include abnormal liver tests and allergic reactions. Patients who have had allergic reactions to other cephalosporins should not take cefadroxil. Additionally, persons who have had allergic reactions to penicillin or one of its derivatives may also be allergic to cefadroxil, although it has been used safely in many such patients.

Last Editorial Review: 12/31/1997

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