Ceclor (Cefaclor) Medication Information

Uses

Ceclor is used to treat bacterial infections, specifically:

• Acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
• Lower respiratory tract infection
• Otitis media
• Pharyngitis
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Urinary tract infections

Dosage

There are oral capsules available in several different strengths:

• 250 mg
• 500 mg

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Ceclor include:

• Rash
• Diarrhea
• Vaginitis
• Vulvovaginal candidiasis
• Eosinophilia
• Increase in liver enzymes

Speak with your doctor or pharmacist for a full list of side effects that applies to you.

Precautions

Hypersensitivity: Anaphylactic reactions have occurred. If a serious hypersensitivity reaction occurs, discontinue and institute emergency supportive measures, including airway management and treatment (eg, epinephrine, antihistamines, and/or corticosteroids).

Penicillin allergy: Use with caution in patients with a history of penicillin allergy.

Superinfection: Prolonged use may result in fungal or bacterial superinfection, including C. difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) and pseudomembranous colitis; CDAD has been observed >2 months postantibiotic treatment.

Gastrointestinal disease: Use with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis.

Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment.

Interactions

Some of the common drug interactions with Ceclor:

• Aminoglycosides
• Vaccines
• Probenecid
• Warfarin

Speak with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. 

Pharmacist Tips

• Administer around-the-clock to promote less variation in peak and trough serum levels.

Cefaclor FAQs

Can I take this with food?

Can be taken with or without food. 

How should I take the extended release tablet?

Extended release tablets should be taken with or within 1 hour of food.

Can I take this if I am pregnant?

An increased risk of teratogenic effects has not been observed following maternal use of cefaclor. Take only if the benefit to the mother outweighs the possible risk to the fetus.

Can I take this while breastfeeding?

Small amounts of cefaclor are excreted in breast milk. The manufacturer recommends that caution be exercised when administering cefaclor to nursing women.

What is the typical dose?

Immediate-release: 250 to 500 mg every 8 hours

What should I monitor for?

Monitor renal function. Observe for signs of anaphylaxis during first dose.

Related Drugs

• Ceftin
• Keflex
• Penicillin
• Bactrim

Reference:

Cefaclor Capsules [prescribing information]. Eatontown, NJ: West-Ward Pharmaceuticals; July 2015.

https://www-uptodate-com.libproxy.unm.edu/contents/cefaclor-drug-information?search=Ceclor&source=panel_search_result&selectedTitle=1~12&usage_type=panel&kp_tab=drug_general&display_rank=1#F146876