Cefaclor ER

The common dosages of Cefaclor ER for adults typically range from:

• 375 mg to 500 mg every 12 hours for mild to moderate infections.
• 750 mg every 12 hours for more severe infections. The exact dosage depends on the type and severity of the infection.

Cefaclor ER is contraindicated in patients with:

• Hypersensitivity to cefaclor or other cephalosporins.
• Previous severe allergic reactions to penicillins, as there may be cross-reactivity in some patients.

Patients taking Cefaclor ER should be advised to:

• Take the medication with food to ensure better absorption and reduce stomach upset.
• Complete the full prescribed course, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished, to prevent antibiotic resistance.
• Take doses at evenly spaced intervals to maintain effective levels in the bloodstream.
• Use a proper measuring device for liquid forms, rather than a household spoon, to ensure an accurate dose.
• Inform their doctor if they have a history of allergic reactions to cephalosporins or penicillins.
• Contact their healthcare provider if they experience severe diarrhea, as this could be a sign of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD).

• Diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Headache
• Rash or itching

• Severe Allergic Reactions (Anaphylaxis): Symptoms include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe rash.
• Clostridium difficile-Associated Diarrhea (CDAD): Prolonged antibiotic use can disrupt the normal gut flora, leading to overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
• Kidney Issues: Cefaclor can cause kidney damage in rare cases, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease.
• Blood Disorders: Rarely, cefaclor may cause changes in blood cell counts, such as neutropenia or thrombocytopenia.

Allergic Reactions: Patients with a history of cephalosporin or penicillin allergies should use Cefaclor ER with caution due to potential cross-reactivity.

Clostridium difficile Infection: Prolonged use of antibiotics like Cefaclor ER can lead to the overgrowth of C. difficile, causing severe diarrhea. Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience persistent diarrhea.

Kidney Function: Cefaclor ER is excreted by the kidneys, so patients with kidney impairment may require dosage adjustments to prevent toxicity.

Cefaclor ER may interact with other medications, including:

• Probenecid: This medication increases the level of cefaclor in the blood by reducing its excretion, potentially increasing the risk of side effects.
• Warfarin: Cefaclor can enhance the effects of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.
• Live Bacterial Vaccines: Antibiotics like cefaclor may reduce the effectiveness of live vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Alternative antibiotics for bacterial infections treated by Cefaclor ER include:

• Other Cephalosporins: Such as cefuroxime or cephalexin, which have similar bacterial coverage.
• Penicillins: Such as amoxicillin, for patients who do not have a penicillin allergy.
• Macrolides: Such as azithromycin or clarithromycin, which are often used for patients allergic to penicillins or cephalosporins.
• Fluoroquinolones: Such as ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin, which may be used for certain types of bacterial infections but carry different risks and side effects.