Duricef (Cefadroxil)

Description

Duricef, also known by its generic name Cefadroxil, is a type of antibiotic belonging to the cephalosporin class. Healthcare providers prescribe it to treat a range of bacterial infections. As a bactericidal agent, Cefadroxil targets and disrupts the formation of bacterial cell walls, ultimately killing the bacteria. It's effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and is commonly used to treat conditions like strep throat, skin infections, and urinary tract infections.

Directions

When taking Duricef, it's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions closely. Duricef is typically taken by mouth and can be taken with or without food. The initial Duricef dose for adults can often start at 1,000 mg, followed by maintenance doses, which might vary depending on factors such as kidney function. You'll regularly find this medication in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders for reconstitution.

For most infections, the standard dosage could be 1,000 or 2,000 mg once daily or in divided doses, although the specific dosage will depend on the type of infection being treated. It's important to complete the full course of Duricef as prescribed, even if symptoms begin to disappear, to ensure the infection is fully eliminated and to prevent the development of drug-resistant bacteria. Remember to store the medication away from moisture and heat, and keep it out of reach of children.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Duricef is Cefadroxil.

Contraindications

Avoid taking Duricef if you have an allergy to Cefadroxil or other cephalosporin antibiotics, or if you’ve had a previous allergic reaction to penicillins or similar drugs.

Cautions

• Before starting treatment with Duricef, be sure to inform your healthcare provider if you have:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications you are currently taking
• Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Let your doctor know if you've ever had an allergic reaction to Duricef, cephalosporins, penicillin, or other medications. Allergic reactions can range from mild rashes to severe symptoms like swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis. Stop using Duricef and seek immediate medical help if you experience any of these.
• Antibiotics like Duricef can cause diarrhea, which might be a sign of a serious infection called Clostridium difficile. If you develop watery or bloody stools, even weeks after finishing Duricef, contact your doctor right away.
• If you have kidney problems, your doctor may adjust your dose. Regular monitoring might be needed to ensure the medication is safe and effective for you.
• Duricef treats bacterial infections, not viral ones like colds or the flu. Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better, to prevent bacteria from becoming resistant to antibiotics.
• Using Duricef for extended periods can lead to the growth of bacteria that are not susceptible to the medication. Let your doctor know if your symptoms don’t improve or if new symptoms develop.
• If you have a history of stomach or bowel conditions like colitis, tell your doctor. Duricef might worsen these conditions in some cases.
• If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using Duricef. While studies in animals show no harm to the fetus, human studies are limited.
• Duricef is safe for use in children but should be dosed carefully. Older adults may need dose adjustments due to decreased kidney function.
• Duricef can affect some lab results, such as Coombs’ tests. Inform lab personnel if you're taking Duricef.
• If you develop severe diarrhea with stomach cramps or fever, contact your doctor immediately. This could happen even weeks after stopping the medication.
• Take Duricef exactly as prescribed, preferably on schedule. Store the medication as instructed, and do not skip doses. Skipping doses or not completing treatment can reduce its effectiveness.

Side Effects

Duricef may cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and dyspepsia, though these are rare. Allergic reactions, including rash, itching, hives, and swelling (angioedema), may occur and usually resolve upon stopping the medication. Serious allergic reactions like anaphylaxis have also been reported and require immediate medical attention.

Rare but serious side effects include pseudomembranous colitis, severe skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, and blood disorders such as neutropenia or thrombocytopenia. Duricef has also been linked to liver dysfunction, including elevated liver enzymes and cholestasis. Seizures may occur, especially in patients with renal impairment if the dose is not appropriately adjusted. If you experience severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

References

1. Duricef (Cefadroxil) Product Monograph. Princeton, NJ: Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.; 2007.
2. Cefadroxil Drug Label Information. Baltimore, MD: Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2012.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....