Cefaclor: Uses, Dosage, and Key Facts About This Antibiotic
Discover how Cefaclor works, what it's used for, its dosage advice, possible side effects, and practical tips for safe antibiotic use in this detailed guide.
Cefaclor is a second‑generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It fights bacterial infections by stopping the bacteria from building their cell walls. Doctors usually write it for ear, throat, sinus, skin, and urinary‑tract infections that aren’t responding to penicillin or other first‑line drugs.
Because it’s a prescription‑only medicine, you’ll need a doctor’s note or an online pharmacy that can verify your prescription. The drug comes in capsule or liquid form, making it easy to fit into most treatment plans.
The usual adult dose is 250‑500 mg every 8 hours, but your doctor may adjust it based on the infection’s severity and your kidney function. Kids get a weight‑based dose, typically 25‑50 mg per kilogram per day divided into three doses.
Take Cefaclor with a full glass of water and try to stay consistent with the timing – morning, afternoon, and night. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next one. Don’t double up.
Food doesn’t drastically affect absorption, so you can take it with meals if stomach upset is an issue. However, avoid antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium within two hours of the dose, as they can lower the amount of drug your body absorbs.
Most people tolerate Cefaclor well. The most common complaints are mild stomach upset, diarrhea, or a slight rash. These usually go away on their own, but staying hydrated helps keep diarrhea from becoming a problem.
If you notice severe diarrhea that’s watery or contains blood, stop the medication and call your doctor right away – it could be a sign of Clostridioides difficile infection.
Allergic reactions are rare but possible. Look for hives, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing. Those symptoms need immediate medical attention.
Because Cefaclor is processed by the kidneys, people with kidney disease may need a lower dose. Tell your doctor about any kidney issues, diabetes, or if you’re on dialysis.
Drug interactions are limited, but keep an eye on warfarin. Cefaclor can increase the blood‑thinning effect, so regular INR checks are a good idea if you’re on that medication.
Do not share your prescription with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms. Using antibiotics incorrectly can lead to resistance, making future infections harder to treat.
If you finish the full course and still feel sick, contact your doctor. Sometimes the infection needs a different antibiotic or a longer treatment period.
Remember, always store Cefaclor at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
In short, Cefaclor is a reliable option for many bacterial infections when used correctly. Follow your doctor’s instructions, watch for side effects, and you’ll likely see improvement within a few days.
Discover how Cefaclor works, what it's used for, its dosage advice, possible side effects, and practical tips for safe antibiotic use in this detailed guide.