Ceclor (Cefaclor)
Medication information written by Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Updated - January 26, 2021
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
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
Author: Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Dr. Roybal is a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist who has practiced in both ambulatory and acute care settings. Her pharmacy interests include oncology and general inpatient pharmacy.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.