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|Cefaclor Cefaclor

Cefaclor

Generic name: Cefaclor
Brand names: Ceclor

Why is Cefaclor prescribed?

Cefaclor, a cephalosporin antibiotic, is used in the treatment of ear, nose, throat, respiratory tract, urinary tract, and skin infections caused by specific bacteria, including staph, strep, and E. coli. Uses include treatment of sore or strep throat, pneumonia, and tonsillitis. Cefaclor CD, an extended release form of the drug, is also used for flare-ups of chronic bronchitis.

Most important fact about Cefaclor

If you are allergic to either penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics in any form, consult your doctor before taking Cefaclor. There is a possibility that you are allergic to both types of medication; and if a reaction occurs, it could be extremely severe. If you take the drug and feel signs of a reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

How should you take Cefaclor?

Your doctor will only prescribe Cefaclor to treat a bacterial infection; it will not cure a viral infection, such as the common cold. It"s important to take the full dosage schedule of Cefaclor, even if you"re feeling better in a few days. Not completing the full dosage schedule may decrease the drug"s effectiveness and increase the chances that the bacteria may become resistant to Cefaclor and similar antibiotics.

Cefaclor works fastest when taken on an empty stomach. However, your doctor may ask you to take Cefaclor with food to avoid stomach upset.

Cefaclor CD should be taken with meals or at least within 1 hour of eating because it"s better absorbed with food. Do not cut, crush, or chew the tablets.

Cefaclor suspension should be shaken well before using.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Keep Cefaclor capsules in the container they came in, tightly closed. Store at room temperature.

Refrigerate Cefaclor suspension. Discard any unused portion after 14 days.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Cefaclor.

• Side effects of Cefaclor may include:
  Diarrhea, hives, itching

• Side effects of Cefaclor CD may include:
  Diarrhea, headache, nasal inflammation, nausea

Why should Cefaclor not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Cefaclor or any other cephalosporin antibiotic, you should not take Cefaclor. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take Cefaclor if you have a history of gastrointestinal problems, particularly bowel inflammation (colitis). You may be at increased risk for side effects.

Special warnings about Cefaclor

Cefaclor may cause a false positive result with some urine sugar tests for diabetics. Your doctor can advise you of any adjustments you may need to make in your medication or diet.

Cefaclor occasionally causes diarrhea. Some diarrhea medications can make this diarrhea worse. Check with your doctor before taking any diarrhea remedy.

Oral contraceptives may not work properly while you are taking Cefaclor. For greater certainty, use other measures while taking Cefaclor.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Cefaclor

If Cefaclor is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Cefaclor with the following:

Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, including Gelusil, Maalox, and Mylanta (interact with Cefaclor CD only)
Certain antibiotics such as Amikin
Certain potent diuretics such as Edecrin and Lasix
Probenecid (Benemid)
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Cefaclor during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, Cefaclor should be used only under special circumstances. Cefaclor appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Cefaclor is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing your baby until your treatment with Cefaclor is finished.

Recommended dosage

CECLOR

Adults

The usual adult dose is 250 milligrams every 8 hours. For more severe infections (such as pneumonia), your doctor may increase the dosage.

Children

The usual daily dosage is 20 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day divided into smaller doses and taken every 8 or 12 hours. In more serious infections, such as middle ear infection, the usual dose is 40 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day divided into smaller doses. The total daily dose should not exceed 1 gram.

CECLOR CD

Adults: Bronchitis

The usual dose is 500 milligrams every 12 hours for 7 days.

Adults: Sore throat, Tonsillitis, and Skin Infections

The usual dose is 375 milligrams every 12 hours for 10 days (sore throat and tonsillitis) or 7 to 10 days (skin infections).

Children

Safety and effectiveness of Cefaclor CD in children under age 16 have not been established.

Overdosage

• Symptoms of Cefaclor overdose may include:
  Diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset, vomiting

If other symptoms are present, they may be related to an allergic reaction or other underlying disease. In any case, you should contact your doctor or an emergency room immediately.