Cefadroxil: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Cefadroxil is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections caused by bacteria that are sensitive to it. It is also used for certain skin and throat infections, and requires a prescription in the United Kingdom. The choice of treatment depends on the bacteria involved and whether they are likely to respond to cefadroxil.

Cefadroxil is used for urinary tract infections caused by susceptible E. coli, Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella bacteria. Its listed uses also include skin and underlying tissue infections caused by staphylococci or streptococci, and throat or tonsil infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. These bacteria are also called group A streptococci.

The label includes impetigo among the infections covered by children's dosing information. Cefadroxil should be used only for infections proven or strongly suspected to involve bacteria sensitive to it.

Tests identifying the bacteria and their sensitivity help guide treatment. Although cefadroxil can clear streptococci from the throat, its effectiveness in preventing subsequent rheumatic fever has not been established.

The label lists 500 mg oral capsules, 1000 mg oral tablets, and powder for oral suspension in strengths of 250 mg/5 mL and 500 mg/5 mL. The label lists 1 or 2 g per day for adults with uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections, as a single dose or divided doses. The label lists 2 g per day in divided doses for other adult urinary tract infections.

The label lists 1 g per day as a single dose or divided doses for adult skin infections. The label lists 1 g per day as a single dose or divided doses for adult streptococcal throat or tonsil infections for 10 days. The label lists 30 mg/kg/day for children, with the dose schedule depending on the infection.

Kidney impairment requires adjustment according to kidney function to prevent accumulation. Capsules may be administered regardless of meals; food may help reduce stomach complaints.

Cefadroxil belongs to the cephalosporin family of antibiotics. These medicines interfere with the way bacteria build their protective cell wall. Without a properly formed wall, susceptible bacteria cannot maintain their structure and can die.

This action helps treat infections caused by bacteria that are sensitive to the medicine. Different bacteria do not all respond in the same way. Testing a sample from an infection can help establish whether the bacteria are likely to respond to cefadroxil.

The label does not specify pregnancy or breastfeeding data. Anyone who is pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding should discuss cefadroxil with a doctor or pharmacist so that its suitability can be considered before treatment.

A missed antibiotic dose can interrupt the intended treatment schedule. General pharmacy advice is to resume the prescribed schedule, avoiding a double dose to make up for a missed dose. If the next dose is nearly due, or the timing is unclear, a pharmacist can advise on how to continue.

The capsule label specifies storage at 25°C, with temperature excursions permitted from 15° to 30°C. Keep medicines out of children's reach and follow the storage directions on the pack to maintain quality.