Generic Duricef (Cefadroxil)

Generic Duricef or Cefadroxil is the generic name of cephalosporin drug which is a broad spectrum antibiotic. It basically belongs to the group of ß-lactam antibiotics that functions against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It has bactericidal effect i.e. it kills the bacteria by interfering with the peptoglycan synthesis required for the cell wall formation of the bacteria.

 

The drug is available in 500mg and 1 g preparations; however, its duration of usage varies depending on the type and severity of the infection. Maximum dosage given per day is 2 g in divided dosage and the drug is continued for 14 days in severe cases. Full dosage should be used for the advised duration and should not be quit before the prescribed time. The drug is used orally and is present in white yellowish crystalline powder that is available in tablet form, suspension, or capsules.

 

Generic Duricef is mainly used to treat the infections of different types of bacteria on various body parts. Also, it is used as a prophylactic drug when the infection is suspected like during dental procedures. Three generations of cephalosporin are there and Cefadroxil contains first generation cephalosporin. This is helpful for the treatment of gram-positive infections including a sore throat, urinary tract infections, streptococcal tonsillitis, infection of the skin, the valvular infections reproductive tract infections etc.

 

It is contraindicated in patients with renal function impairment, cephalosporin allergies, Clostridium Difficile associated colitis etc. also in pregnancy and breast feeding, and the drug is usually contraindicated or only used with precaution.

Side effects:

• Loose stools

• Dysentery

• Fever

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Allergic reaction including shortness of breath hives, swelling of the face, tongue, lips, and chest tightness, itching, rashes etc.

• Chills

• Body pain

• Flu like symptoms

• Seizures

• Stomach cramps

• Bleeding

• Petechiae, bruises etc

• Yellowing of skin and eyes

• Dark urine

• Confusion

• Joint pain

• Swelling of glands

• Rash

• Itching

• Decreased urination

• Sore throat

• Skin swelling, blisters

• Severe diarrhea

• Vaginal discharge and itching

• Lethargy

• Stomach cramps

 

If you are having any allergy to the drug, or history of allergic reaction to cephalosporin, beta-lactam antibiotics, or penicillin group like amoxicillin, erythromycin etc., do not take Duricef.

Also if you are taking any other medication, herbal supplements, over the counter drugs etc, let your doctor know.

In case you are suffering from diabetes, tell your doctor as can interfere with the formation of more infections.

The drug is used carefully I older people and children younger than 10 years old as they are sensitive to the drug and more prone to adverse effects.

If you are pregnant, breast feeding or planning to be pregnant, ask your doctor as it can have severe effects on pregnancy and can pass in milk.