| name | Cefaclor |
| classification | Cephalosporin antibiotic, 2nd generation |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Well absorbed orally, peak plasma concentrations achieved within 1-2 hours. | | distribution | Distributes widely throughout the body, including the respiratory tract, urinary tract, and soft tissues. | | metabolism | Metabolized primarily in the liver. | | excretion | Excreted mainly in the urine. |
|
| suggested dosage | | adult male 25 years 70kg | | typical range | 250 mg to 500 mg every 8 hours, or 1 g to 2 g every 12 hours, as directed by a physician. | | note | Dosage adjustments may be needed based on the severity of infection and individual patient response. |
|
|
| indications | | 1 | Upper respiratory tract infections (e.g., pharyngitis, tonsillitis) | | 2 | Skin and soft tissue infections | | 3 | Lower respiratory tract infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia - in select cases) | | 4 | Genitourinary tract infections | | 5 | Other bacterial infections as clinically indicated |
|
| safety in pregnancy | | category | B | | details | Cefaclor is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, but the benefits must outweigh the risks. Limited data exists, and a physician should carefully weigh any risk/benefit before prescribing. |
|
| safety in breastfeeding | | details | Cefaclor is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Its safety for use during breastfeeding is generally considered acceptable, but the mother should consult with her physician, especially if nursing a newborn. | | note | A physician should monitor for any adverse effects on the nursing infant. |
|
| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) | | 2 | Headache, dizziness | | 3 | Rash, pruritus | | 4 | Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis) | | 5 | Superinfection (e.g., candidiasis) - if the balance of normal bacteria in the body is disturbed | | 6 | Possible liver dysfunction in rare cases |
|
| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or penicillins (cross-reactivity exists) | | 2 | History of severe allergic reactions to the drug |
|
| interactions | | 1 | Concurrent use with certain medications can alter absorption or increase toxicity. Check with your physician before using other medications concurrently. | | 2 | May reduce effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Consider additional contraception methods. |
|
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Patients with a history of allergies to penicillins or cephalosporins should be monitored closely for signs of allergic reactions (especially rash, hives). | | 2 | Monitor for signs of superinfection and/or liver dysfunction. | | 3 | Patients with renal impairment should have their dosages adjusted based on kidney function. |
|
| additional information | | 1 | Take cefaclor with food or milk to reduce gastrointestinal upset. | | 2 | Complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve to ensure complete eradication of infection. | | 3 | Do not discontinue the medicine without consulting a doctor. Sudden discontinuation may compromise treatment success. |
|
| patient info | |
