Cefaclor (Generic)

Cefaclor (Cefaclor)

General information

Cefaclor is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat infections caused by bacteria. It is a potent, long-acting antibiotic with bacteriostatic properties that works via inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It is effective against a large variety of diseases caused by Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms such as pneumonia, strep throat, staph infections, tonsillitis, bronchitis, otitis media, various types of skin infections, gonorrhea, urinary tract infections. Cephalosporin is also used for surgical prophylaxis. Cefaclor is not effective against anaerobic organisms.

Directions

Take this medication exactly as your doctor has prescribed it. You must carefully follow all directions given to you. Avoid exceeding your dose or taking the medication longer than it was advised by your doctor. Swallow it whole with a full glass of water. This medication is not chewed, crushed or broken while taking. This is an extended-release tablet aimed to release medicine slowly after you have swallowed it. If you break the tablet it can cause too much of the medicine to be released right away, which is not desirable. Generally the recommended dosage is 250-500 mg taken every eight hours or 375-500 mg taken every twelve hours. To treat gonorrhea you should take 3,000 mg of the medication right away. Treatment course continues 7-10 days.

Precautions

Before taking Cefaclor, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; in case you are allergic to penicillins or other cephalosporins. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions. This medication is prescribed cautiously if you anamnesis contains a history of severe kidney disease, intestinal disease (colitis). This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids, meals, food supplements and other medications you are allowed to take.

Contraindications

Cefaclor is contraindicated in patients showing hypersensitivity to any component of the medicine and other beta-lactam antibiotics. This medication is administered cautiously in patients that suffer from chronic renal insufficiency, leukocytopenia, lupus, hemorrhagic syndrome. Cefaclor is not given to pregnant and breastfeeding women or children of eight years and under unless directed by the pediatrician.

Possible side effect

In general, Cefaclor is well tolerated. The most common side effects are mild and include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, light-headedness, unsteadiness, fatigue, loss of appetite, headache, allergic reactions such as rash or hives, swelling of face or tongue, difficulty in swallowing, jaundice, nervousness, insomnia, coleitis and hallucinations. This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. Others may occur in some people and there may be some side effects not known yet. In case you have experienced any side effect not listed above, immediately notify your doctor or local poison centre.

Drug interactions

Cefaclor is able to interact with coumarins (warfarin) which results in enhancing of the anticoagulant effect. Excretion of cephalosporin is reduced by probenecid (resulting in increased concentrations of drug in the blood plasma). Absorption of cefaclor is reduced by H2 blockers (a type of antacid); therefore antacids should not be taken at the same time as cefaclor.

Missed dose

If you have missed your dose, take it as soon as possible. In case it is near the time for the next intake, avoid the missed dose and keep your ordinary dosing schedule. Avoid compensating a missed dose by taking an extra one.

Overdose

If you suspect you have used too much of this medication, seek emergency medical attention right away. Do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning. You may need urgent medical attention. The most common symptoms of overdose include: nausea, emesis, digestive upsets (stomach pain, persistent diarrhea). If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Storage

This medication is stored in a cool dry place at temperature between 15-25 C (59-77 F), away from sources of sunlight, heat and moisture. Do not store this drug in the bathroom. Keep this product out of the reach of children and pets.

Note

The information presented at the site has a general character. Note please this information cannot be used for self-treatment and self diagnosis. You should consult with your doctor or health care adviser regarding any specific instructions of your condition. The information is reliable, but we concede it could contain mistakes. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other damage caused by use of this information on the site and also for consequences of self-treatment.