Cefaclor is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic widely used to treat various bacterial infections. This medication effectively targets infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, and ears, making it a versatile option in treating bacterial diseases. With its proven clinical efficacy and broad-spectrum activity, Cefaclor continues to be an important antibiotic in modern healthcare.
What is Cefaclor?
Cefaclor, sold under trade names like Ceclor and Raniclor, is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections.
It belongs to the family of antibiotics known as cephalosporins, which are broad-spectrum antibiotics used for treating septicemia, pneumonia, meningitis, biliary tract infections, peritonitis, and urinary tract infections.
As a cephalosporin-type antibiotic, Cefaclor works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, stopping the growth of bacteria that cause infections.
It's effective against many kinds of bacterial infections but doesn't work against viral infections such as the common cold, influenza, or coronavirus.
What are the Uses of Cefaclor?
Cefaclor is highly effective against a wide range of bacterial pathogens, including some that are resistant to other antibiotics. Its continued use as a first-line treatment helps reduce pressure on newer antibiotics, thereby slowing the development of resistance.
It is available in various forms, including Ceclor syrup and Ceclor drops, which are especially suited for children and infants.
Its broad antibacterial spectrum helps reduce the burden on newer antibiotics, playing a key role in antimicrobial stewardship.
Conditions Cefaclor Treats
Cefaclor is commonly prescribed for:
Respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia and bronchitis
Throat and tonsil infections (pharyngitis and tonsillitis)
Skin and soft tissue infections
Urinary tract infections
Cefaclor: Ceclor Syrup and Drops
Ceclor syrup and Ceclor drops are pediatric formulations used in infants and children who cannot swallow tablets. They offer accurate, weight-based dosing and easy administration.
Form
Primary Uses
Ceclor Syrup
Suitable for children over 1 year with respiratory, throat, ear, and skin infections
Ceclor Drops
Ideal for infants under 1 year, used for ear infections, throat infections, mild UTIs
Both forms are typically dosed 2-3 times daily, depending on the child's weight and the severity of the infection.
Secondary Uses of Cefaclor
Beyond its primary applications, Cefaclor can also be effective for:
Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
Secondary bacterial infections of acute bronchitis
Infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis
How Does Cefaclor Work?
Cefaclor works through a bactericidal mechanism, meaning it kills bacteria rather than merely inhibiting their growth. This makes it particularly effective in treating active bacterial infections.
As with other cephalosporins, the bactericidal action of Cefaclor results from inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis. Specifically, it binds to one or more of the penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in the bacterial cell wall, which inhibits the final stage of bacterial cell wall synthesis and leads to cell death.
Cefaclor has gram-positive activity similar to first-generation cephalosporins but adds activity against various gram-negative bacteria, including Proteus mirabilis, Haemophilus influenzae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.
How Long Does Cefaclor Take to Work?
Cefaclor typically begins working within a few hours of taking the first dose, though you may not notice improvement immediately. Most people begin to feel better during the first few days of treatment, with noticeable symptom improvement in 2-3 days.
However, even if you feel better, it's important to complete the full prescribed course of antibiotics to ensure the infection is completely eliminated and to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
If your symptoms do not improve after a few days of treatment or if they worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
How to use cefaclor oral?
Take this medicine by mouth usually every 8 or 12 hours, or as directed by your doctor. You may take this medicine with food if you have a stomach upset.
Take this antibiotic at proper spaced intervals times for the best result. To help you remember, take this medicine at the same time daily.
Continue to take this medicine until the prescribed amount is over, even if the symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping this medicine too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may lead to a relapse of the infection.
Cefaclor Dosage
Cefaclor is available in several formulations, including capsules, extended-release tablets, and oral suspension (liquid). The dosage varies depending on the type and severity of infection, age, and kidney function.
Typical Dosage Instructions
For Adults:
Standard adult dosage: 250 mg every 8 hours
For more severe infections: 500 mg every 8 hours
Extended-release tablets: 375-500 mg every 12 hours
For Children:
Standard pediatric dosage: 20-40 mg/kg/day divided into doses every 8 hours
Maximum daily dosage: 1 g/day
Safety and efficacy not established in children under 1 month of age
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What Happens if an Overdose?
Symptoms of an overdose may include severe vomiting and seizures. If someone has taken more than prescribed or shows serious symptoms such as passing out or difficulty breathing, call a poison control center immediately.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Like all medications, Cefaclor may cause side effects in some individuals. These can range from mild to serious. It's important to be aware of potential reactions and seek medical help if needed.
Common Side Effects
These side effects are usually mild and may go away as your body adjusts to the medication:
In rare cases, Cefaclor can cause severe hypersensitivity or intestinal conditions:
Rash, itching, or swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat)
Trouble breathing
Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (with blood or mucus in stool)
Note: If any side effects persist, worsen, or seem unusual, consult your doctor promptly. Never ignore symptoms, especially if they appear suddenly or severely.
Precautions and Warnings
Before starting Cefaclor tablets, it's important to take a few safety precautions to avoid unwanted side effects or complications:
Who Should Avoid This Medicine
Cefaclor should not be used by people who:
Have had an allergic reaction to Cefaclor or other cephalosporin antibiotics
Have had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin antibiotics (as cross-sensitivity may exist)
Have a history of cephalosporin allergy
Conditions Where Caution is Needed
Use Cefaclor with caution if you have:
Kidney disease or impaired kidney function
History of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis
History of allergies, especially to medications.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Cefaclor?
Cefaclor's safety and effectiveness in children younger than 1 month of age have not been established. Extended-release tablets are not recommended for children under 16 years of age.
In elderly patients, kidney function may decline with age, and since Cefaclor is eliminated through the kidneys, older adults may be more sensitive to its effects.
Alcohol or Food Interactions
Alcohol consumption while taking Cefaclor is not specifically contraindicated, but it may increase the risk of certain side effects or mask symptoms of an adverse reaction. It's always best to consult with your healthcare provider about alcohol use while taking any medication.
Food does not significantly affect the absorption of Cefaclor, so it can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.
Possible Interactions with Other Medications
Cefaclor can interact with other medications, which may alter how it works or increase the risk of serious side effects.
Some notable drug interactions include:
Probenecid may increase blood levels of Cefaclor
Live bacterial vaccines (such as typhoid vaccine) may have reduced effectiveness
Oral contraceptives may have decreased effectiveness
Anticoagulants like warfarin may have increased effects
Some immune checkpoint inhibitors may have reduced therapeutic effects
Cefaclor may also affect certain laboratory test results, such as causing false-positive results in some diabetic urine tests.
Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Cefaclor.
How Should Cefaclor Be Stored?
Proper storage of Cefaclor is essential to maintain its effectiveness and safety.
Recommended Storage Temperature for Cefaclor
Storage recommendations vary by formulation:
Capsules and tablets: Store at room temperature (68° F to 77° F or 20° C to 25° C), away from excess heat, moisture, and light
Oral suspension (after reconstitution): Store in the refrigerator between 36° F and 46° F (2° C and 8° C) with the lid tightly closed
Discard any unused oral suspension after 14 days
What Happens If Cefaclor Is Not Stored Properly?
Improper storage can lead to:
Decreased effectiveness of the medication
Potential development of harmful breakdown products
Changes in appearance or consistency, especially in the oral suspension
Keep all medications, including Cefaclor, out of reach of children and pets. Extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed, cut, or crushed.
How Long Does Cefaclor Take to Work?
Cefaclor typically begins working within a few hours of taking the first dose, though you may not notice improvement immediately. Most people begin to feel better during the first few days of treatment, with noticeable symptom improvement in 2-3 days.
However, even if you feel better, it's important to complete the full prescribed course of antibiotics to ensure the infection is completely eliminated and to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
If your symptoms do not improve after a few days of treatment or if they worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
The maximum recommended dose of Cefaclor for adults is 4,000 mg (4 g) per day, divided into multiple doses as prescribed by a doctor.
Cefaclor is a cephalosporin-type antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including middle ear infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and respiratory tract infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. It is not effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu.
Cefaclor 500mg is prescribed to treat moderate to severe bacterial infections. It targets conditions such as ear infections, skin infections, UTIs, and infections of the lungs and airways.
No, Cefaclor is not a penicillin, but it is chemically related. People allergic to penicillin may also react to Cefaclor. Always inform your doctor of any known allergies before starting this medication.
Cefaclor can be used to treat bacterial sinus infections, particularly those caused by organisms like Haemophilus influenzae. However, due to resistance and allergy risks, it may not be the first choice for acute sinusitis.
Yes, Cefaclor is effective for treating streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat) and tonsillitis. It may be prescribed in specific dosages based on age and severity.
Cefaclor is considered safe and well-tolerated in children, including infants, especially for conditions like otitis media caused by Haemophilus influenzae. Always follow pediatric dosing guidelines provided by a healthcare professional.
Cefaclor oral suspension should be taken by mouth every 8 to 12 hours as directed by your doctor. It can be taken with food to reduce stomach upset. Doses should be evenly spaced for maximum effectiveness.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
