Duricef 500mg/5ml Susp 75ml
It is used to treat bacterial infections.
Drug Class
Antibiotic
Pharmacologic Class
First-generation Cephalosporin
Pregnancy Category
Category B
FDA Approved
Dec 1977
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Cefadroxil is an antibiotic medication used to treat various bacterial infections, such as those of the throat, skin, and urinary tract. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. It's important to take the full course of medication as prescribed, even if you feel better, to prevent the infection from returning.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your medication as directed, with or without food. If you experience stomach upset, taking it with food may help. Before using the liquid form, shake the bottle well and measure your dose carefully using the provided measuring device. If one is not included, ask your pharmacist for a suitable device.
It's essential to continue taking your medication as prescribed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you're feeling well. This will help ensure you receive the full benefits of the treatment.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication in the refrigerator to maintain its effectiveness. Any unused portion should be discarded after 2 weeks. Do not freeze your medication. Keep all medications in a safe and secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for the missed one.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your medication as directed, with or without food. If you experience stomach upset, taking it with food may help. Before using the liquid form, shake the bottle well and measure your dose carefully using the provided measuring device. If one is not included, ask your pharmacist for a suitable device.
It's essential to continue taking your medication as prescribed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you're feeling well. This will help ensure you receive the full benefits of the treatment.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication in the refrigerator to maintain its effectiveness. Any unused portion should be discarded after 2 weeks. Do not freeze your medication. Keep all medications in a safe and secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for the missed one.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs.
- Shake the suspension well before each use.
- Use an accurate measuring device for liquid forms.
- Finish the entire course of medication, even if symptoms improve, to prevent antibiotic resistance and recurrence of infection.
- Store the suspension in the refrigerator after reconstitution and discard any unused portion after 14 days.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Generic Alternatives:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
1 to 2 grams per day, administered as a single dose or in two divided doses.
Dose Range:
1000 - 2000 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis (Streptococcal):
1000 mg once daily for 10 days
Skin and Skin Structure Infections:
1000 mg once daily or 500 mg twice daily
Urinary Tract Infections (uncomplicated):
1000 to 2000 mg per day, administered as a single dose or in two divided doses
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
30 mg/kg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses
Child:
30 mg/kg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses (max 100 mg/kg/day or 4 g/day)
Adolescent:
30 mg/kg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses (max 100 mg/kg/day or 4 g/day), or adult dosing if weight allows
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
CrCl 50-75 mL/min: 500 mg every 12 hours
Moderate:
CrCl 25-49 mL/min: 500 mg every 24 hours
Severe:
CrCl 10-24 mL/min: 500 mg every 36 hours
Dialysis:
500 mg every 36 hours, or 500 mg after dialysis on dialysis days
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Cefadroxil is a bactericidal antibiotic that acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, thereby inhibiting the third and final stage of bacterial cell wall synthesis. Cell lysis is then mediated by bacterial cell wall autolytic enzymes such as autolysins; it is possible that cefadroxil interferes with an autolysin inhibitor.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Approximately 90%
Tmax:
1.5 to 2 hours
FoodEffect:
Food does not affect the extent of absorption, but may delay the peak concentration.
Distribution:
Vd:
0.21 L/kg
ProteinBinding:
Approximately 20%
CnssPenetration:
Limited
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Approximately 1.5 hours (normal renal function)
Clearance:
Renal clearance is approximately 100 mL/min/1.73 m^2
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (glomerular filtration and tubular secretion)
Unchanged:
Approximately 90% within 24 hours
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Rapid
PeakEffect:
1.5 to 2 hours (peak plasma concentration)
DurationOfAction:
Sustained plasma levels allow for once or twice daily dosing
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of liver problems, including:
+ Dark urine
+ Tiredness
+ Decreased appetite
+ Upset stomach or stomach pain
+ Light-colored stools
+ Vomiting
+ Yellow skin or eyes
Fever, chills, or sore throat
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Feeling very tired or weak
Seizures
Difficulty urinating or changes in urine output
Vaginal itching or discharge
Diarrhea, especially if it is severe, watery, or bloody (see below for more information on diarrhea)
Important Information About Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common side effect of antibiotics. However, in rare cases, a severe form of diarrhea called Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) may occur. This condition can lead to a life-threatening bowel problem. If you experience stomach pain, cramps, or very loose, watery, or bloody stools, contact your doctor right away. Before treating diarrhea, consult with your doctor.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
Diarrhea
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of liver problems, including:
+ Dark urine
+ Tiredness
+ Decreased appetite
+ Upset stomach or stomach pain
+ Light-colored stools
+ Vomiting
+ Yellow skin or eyes
Fever, chills, or sore throat
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Feeling very tired or weak
Seizures
Difficulty urinating or changes in urine output
Vaginal itching or discharge
Diarrhea, especially if it is severe, watery, or bloody (see below for more information on diarrhea)
Important Information About Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common side effect of antibiotics. However, in rare cases, a severe form of diarrhea called Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) may occur. This condition can lead to a life-threatening bowel problem. If you experience stomach pain, cramps, or very loose, watery, or bloody stools, contact your doctor right away. Before treating diarrhea, consult with your doctor.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
Diarrhea
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat)
- Severe stomach pain, watery or bloody diarrhea (may occur up to 2 months after treatment)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash
- Signs of new infection (e.g., oral thrush, vaginal yeast infection)
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor and pharmacist assess potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your current medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor and pharmacist assess potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your current medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Adhere to the prescribed duration of treatment, as prolonged use may increase the risk of a second infection.
If you are taking this drug for an extended period, your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to monitor your condition. Be aware that this medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is crucial to notify all your healthcare providers and lab personnel that you are taking this drug.
If you have a sulfite allergy, consult your doctor before taking this medication, as some products may contain sulfites. Additionally, if you are 65 years or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.
Before taking this medication, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Your doctor will discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby, allowing you to make an informed decision.
If you are taking this drug for an extended period, your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to monitor your condition. Be aware that this medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is crucial to notify all your healthcare providers and lab personnel that you are taking this drug.
If you have a sulfite allergy, consult your doctor before taking this medication, as some products may contain sulfites. Additionally, if you are 65 years or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.
Before taking this medication, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Your doctor will discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby, allowing you to make an informed decision.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Hematuria (blood in urine)
- Hyperreflexia
- Seizures (rare)
What to Do:
Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control). Treatment is supportive. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion is recent. Hemodialysis may be useful in severe cases of renal impairment.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
- Live bacterial vaccines (e.g., BCG, typhoid oral): May decrease therapeutic effect of vaccine.
- Warfarin: May enhance anticoagulant effect (monitor INR).
Moderate Interactions
- Probenecid: May increase cefadroxil concentrations by decreasing renal tubular secretion.
- Metformin: Cefadroxil may increase metformin plasma concentrations (monitor for metformin toxicity).
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Renal function (serum creatinine, BUN, CrCl)
Rationale: Cefadroxil is primarily renally eliminated; dosage adjustment is required in renal impairment.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy, especially in elderly patients or those with pre-existing renal conditions.
Routine Monitoring
Clinical response to therapy
Frequency: Daily
Target: Resolution of infection symptoms
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms may indicate treatment failure or resistant organism.
Signs of superinfection (e.g., oral thrush, vaginal yeast infection, severe diarrhea)
Frequency: Throughout therapy and for several weeks post-therapy
Target: Absence of new infections
Action Threshold: Development of new symptoms requires evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Renal function (serum creatinine, BUN)
Frequency: Periodically, especially during prolonged therapy or in patients with renal impairment
Target: Stable renal function
Action Threshold: Significant increase in creatinine/BUN may necessitate dose adjustment or discontinuation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain)
- Signs of Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) (severe, persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, bloody stools)
- Signs of superinfection (new or worsening symptoms of infection, oral thrush, vaginal itching/discharge)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Cefadroxil is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy (Pregnancy Category B). Animal reproduction studies have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Low risk, generally considered safe.
Second Trimester:
Low risk, generally considered safe.
Third Trimester:
Low risk, generally considered safe.
Lactation
Cefadroxil is excreted in human milk in small amounts. It is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding (Lactation Risk L1). Monitor breastfed infants for potential alterations in bowel flora (e.g., diarrhea, candidiasis) or allergic reactions.
Infant Risk:
Low risk
Pediatric Use
Dosing is weight-based and well-established for infants, children, and adolescents. Safety and efficacy in neonates have not been established.
Geriatric Use
No overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. Dosage adjustment is necessary in elderly patients with impaired renal function.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Cefadroxil is a first-generation cephalosporin, effective against many Gram-positive bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus) and some Gram-negative bacteria (e.g., E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis).
- It is often chosen for its convenient once or twice daily dosing, which can improve patient adherence.
- Patients should be advised to complete the full course of therapy, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.
- Counsel patients on proper storage of the reconstituted suspension (refrigeration, discard after 14 days).
- Be aware of potential for Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), which can occur during or even several weeks after antibiotic therapy.
Alternative Therapies
- Penicillin V (for streptococcal pharyngitis)
- Amoxicillin
- Cephalexin (another first-generation cephalosporin)
- Other appropriate antibiotics based on culture and sensitivity for specific infections
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Varies widely, typically low per 75ml bottle
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.