cefaclor

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n.

A semisynthetic analogue of cephalosporin, C₁₅H₁₄ClN₃O₄S, that is administered orally and has a broad spectrum of antibiotic activity.

[Alteration of CEPHA(LOSPORIN) + C(H)LOR(INE).]

n

trade names: Ceclor, Ce-clor CD; drug class: antibiotic second generation cephalosporin; action: inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis; uses: eradication of gramnegative bacilli from the upper and lower respiratory tract and treatment of urinary tracts and skin infections and otitis media.

Brand names: Ceclor®, Ceclor® CD, Raniclor™, Raniclor®

Chemical formula:

Drug Forms:
• Cefaclor extended-release tablets (below)
• Cefaclor chewable tablets

Español:
• Tabletas de liberación prolongada de cefaclor

Cefaclor extended-release tablets

What are cefaclor extended-release tablets?

CEFACLOR (Ceclor® CD, Cefaclor ER) is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It treats many kinds of infections including those of the skin, respiratory tract, sinuses, ear, and urinary tract. Generic cefaclor extended-release tablets are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• bleeding problems
• diarrhea
• kidney disease
• stomach or intestinal problems (especially colitis)
• other chronic illness
• an unusual or allergic reaction to cefaclor, other cephalosporin antibiotics, penicillin, penicillamine, other foods, dyes or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take cefaclor extended-release tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take the tablets with food or within 1 hour after eating a meal. Swallow the tablets whole; do not chew, crush, or cut the tablets. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What drug(s) may interact with cefaclor?

• antacids containing aluminum hydroxide or magnesium hydroxide
• other antibiotics
• probenecid

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking cefaclor?

Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not begin to improve in a few days.

If you are diabetic you may get a false-positive result for sugar in your urine. Check with your prescriber or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.

If you get severe or watery diarrhea, do not treat yourself. Call your prescriber or health care professional for advice.

If you have to have surgery, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking cefaclor.

What side effects may I notice from taking cefaclor?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• difficulty breathing, wheezing
• dizziness
• fever or chills, sore throat
• reduced amount of urine
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• seizures (convulsions)
• severe or watery diarrhea
• skin rash, itching
• stomach pain or cramps
• swollen joints
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• headache
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach upset

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep away from moisture and sunlight. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Last updated: 7/15/2004 4:52:00 PM

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

A second generation cephalosporin antibiotic, administered orally. Not widely used in veterinary medicine.