Cefadroxil

Oral Antibiotics

Drug class: First-Generation Cephalosporin Antibiotic

Cefadroxil（中文：頭孢翔氨芐）

Common Strengths of Cefadroxil

Cefadroxil are available in the follwoing strengths:

• 500 mg sapsule

Drug Usage

• Urinary tract infections
• Skin and skin structure infections
• Pharyngitis and tonsillitis
• Prophylaxis for dental procedures in patients allergic to penicilin

Mechanism of Action

Cefadroxil works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell lysis and death. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in the becterial cell wall, disrupting the formation of peptidoglycan, which is essential for bacterial cell wall integrity.

Route of Administration

Oral

Dosages

• Normal Adults: 1 g orally once daily or divided every 12 hours for 10 days for infections like tonsillitis.
• Renal Dosing: Dosing adjustments for patients with renal impairment are based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). For eGFR <30 mL/min, the dose may need to be reduced.

Side Effects

Frequency	Adverse reactions
Common Side Effects	Diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and vaginal itching/discharge.
Serious Side Effects	Severe allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing), bloody diarrhea, kidney problems, and jaundice.

Pharmacokinetics

Cefadroxil is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1.5 to 2 hours post-administration.

The drug has a half-life of approximately 1.5 hours and is primarily eliminated unchanged in urine.

Drug Precautions

Pregnancy

Animal studies show no risk, but human data is limited.

Breastfeeding

Excreted in breast milk; caution is advised as it may cause neonatal diarrhea.

Children and Elderly

Generally safe, but dosage adjustments may be necessary for elderly patients due to potential renal impairment.

Monitoring Requirements

Renal functions should be monitored, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions.

Drug Interactions

• Live vaccines:
  • BCG vaccine (live)
  • Cholera vaccine (live)
  • Typhoid vaccine (live)
• Warfarin: Cefadroxil may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing bleeding risk.
• Probenecid: Can increase cefadroxil levels by decreasing renal excretion.
• Furosemide: These is a potential for increased nephrotoxicity when used together.

FAQ

How Should I Take the capsule?

Take cefadroxil with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. Ensure to complete the full course even if symptoms improve.

What Should I Avoid While Taking?

Avoid alcohol and other medications that can irritate the stomach.

What Happens if I Miss a Dose?

Take the missed doses as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses.