Duricef (or Cefadroxil) is a semisynthetic broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic of the first generation. It is effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial infections. It is aimed to treat or prevent a range of infections proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria. It works via interfering with the bacteria's cell wall formation. Duricef is used to moderate infections provoked by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes that causes the disease called strep throat or Streptococcal tonsillitis, urinary tract infection, reproductive tract infection and skin infections.
Directions
Take this medication exactly as your doctor has prescribed it. You must carefully follow all directions given to you. Avoid exceeding your dose or taking the medication longer than it was advised by your doctor. Swallow it whole with a full glass of water. This medication is not chewed, crushed or broken while taking. Generally the recommended dosage is 1-2 mg taken once or twice daily.
Precautions
Before taking Duricef tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to penicillins or other cephalosporins. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions. This medication is prescribed cautiously if you anamnesis contains a history of severe kidney disease, intestinal disease (colitis). This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Do not drink alcohol while being treated with Duricef as it may cause interaction. Pay attention to a possibility of suffering from pseudomembranous colitis (a colon inflammation caused by eradication of the normal gut flora by antibiotics). Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids, meals, food supplements and other medications you are allowed to take.
Contraindications
Duricef is contraindicated in patients showing hypersensitivity to any component of the medicine and other beta-lactam antibiotics. This medication is administered cautiously in patients that suffer from chronic renal insufficiency and colitis. Duricef is not given to pregnant and breastfeeding women or children of eight years and under unless directed by the pediatrician.
Possible side effect
Most regular side effects include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, allergic reactions such as rash or hives, swelling of face or tongue, difficulty in swallowing, colitis, and inflammation of the bowel. This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. Others may occur in some people and there may be some side effects not known yet. In case you have experienced any side effect not listed above, immediately notify your doctor or local poison centre.
Drug interactions
Duricef is able to interact with polymixines and aminoglycosides which increase their toxicity. Platelets aggregation inhibitors and non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs used consentaneously with Duricef can provoke bleeding.
Missed dose
Never take two doses of this product at once. In case you take Durisef once per day skip the missed dose and take the medication as soon as possible, you can take the next dose in 10-12 hours. If you take Duricef twice per day the dosage intake is administered within the interval of 5-6 hours.
Overdose
If you suspect you have used too much of this medication, seek emergency medical attention right away. Do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning. You may need urgent medical attention. The most common symptoms of overdose include: seizures, allergic reactions such as skin rash, hives, itching, swelling of the tongue, face, lips, throat and colpitis. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Storage
This medication is stored in a cool dry place at temperature between 15-25 C (59-77 F), away from sources of sunlight, heat and moisture. Do not store this drug in the bathroom. Keep this product out of the reach of children and pets. Suspension should be used during two weeks after it has been prepared and is kept in a refrigerator.
Note
The information presented at the site has a general character. Note please this information cannot be used for self-treatment and self diagnosis. You should consult with your doctor or health care adviser regarding any specific instructions of your condition. The information is reliable, but we concede it could contain mistakes. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other damage caused by use of this information on the site and also for consequences of self-treatment.
English
