Cefadroxil for infection

About cefadroxil

What is cefadroxil used for?

Cefadroxil is a type of antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, skin infections, and chest or throat infections.

It is suitable for adults and older children, and can be taken during pregnancy.

Some people who are allergic to penicillin antibiotics may not be able to take cefadroxil, so make sure your doctor knows if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other antibiotic.

Cefadroxil treats an infection by killing the bacteria that are causing it.

Side effects of cefadroxil

Common side effects of cefadroxil are:

• Diarrhoea.

• Feeling sick (nausea).

• Being sick (vomiting).

• Indigestion.

• Stomach ache.

• Sore tongue.

• Skin rash.

You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine.

The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

How to manage cefadroxil side effects

Who should not take cefadroxil?

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions. Before starting cefadroxil it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine. It is particularly important that you tell your doctor if you have had a bad reaction to a penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotic.

• If you have any problems with the way your kidneys work.

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding. (Although cefadroxil is not known to be harmful to babies, it is still important that you tell your doctor if you are expecting or breastfeeding a baby.)

• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take cefadroxil

• Read the information leaflet in the pack before you start taking cefadroxil. It explains how the medicine works and lists possible side effects.

• You will usually take 1-2 capsules once or twice a day. Follow your doctor's instructions and the directions on the label.

• Your treatment will usually last 5–10 days.

• Swallow the capsules whole with water. Don’t chew or open them. You can take them with or without food.

• If you take more than one dose a day, spread them out evenly. If you take just one dose a day, take it at the same time each day.

• Keep taking the medicine until you finish the full course, even if you start to feel better.

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at once.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Some people get thrush (oral or vaginal) after antibiotics. If this happens, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

• Tell any doctor or healthcare professional that you’re taking cefadroxil if you’re having an operation or medical tests, as it can affect some results.

• If you use the combined contraceptive pill and have sickness or diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, use extra contraception (such as condoms). Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need advice.

• Cefadroxil can stop the oral typhoid vaccine from working properly. Tell the person giving you any vaccines that you’re taking it.

How to store cefadroxil

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

Frequently asked questions

How long does cefadroxil take to work?

Cefadroxil usually starts working within an hour of taking the first dose. Most people begin to feel improvement in symptoms, such as reduced pain, fever, or redness, within the first 1-2 days of treatment.

Is cefadroxil a strong antibiotic?

Yes, cefadroxil is considered a strong antibiotic. It is commonly used it to treat a range of bacterial infections such as skin infections, throat infections, urinary tract infections, and some chest infections. However, it does not treat viral infections.

Is cefadroxil safe to use during pregnancy?

Cefadroxil is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. It is widely used in pregnancy as there is no evidence that it causes harm to the baby. However, always let your doctor know you are pregnant before taking cefadroxil.

Is cefadroxil stronger than penicillin?

Cefadroxil isn’t 'stronger' than penicillin-it’s broad-spectrum, which means it treats more types of infections. Some penicillins, such as amoxicillin, are also broad-spectrum, while others only target specific infections. The best antibiotic depends on the infection you have.

Is cefadroxil the same as amoxicillin?

No, cefadroxil is not the same as amoxicillin, but both are antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections. While they work in similar ways by stopping bacteria from growing, they belong to different antibiotic families.