Duricef (Cefadroxil)

What is Duricef?

Duricef (cefadroxil) is an oral drug which belongs to the class of drugs known as cephalosporin antibiotic. It helps in the treatment of various bacterial infections.

What is Duricef used for?

Duricef is used in the treatment of various bacterial infections. Since it is an antibiotic it treats infections caused by bacteria only. It does not treat infections caused by non-bacterial elements.

How does Duricef work?

Being an antibiotic, Duricef inhibits the growth of bacteria and thus helps in the treatment and prevention of bacterial infections.

How to use Duricef

Duricef should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Duricef is usually taken orally once a day, with or without food. To prevent stomach upset it may be taken with food. The extended-release capsules should be swallowed whole and not opened, crushed or chewed. In case of an oral suspension measure the correct dose with a measuring device provided by your pharmacist.

The drug should preferably be taken at the same time every day in order to maintain a constant level of antibiotic in the body. This facilitates the action of the drug.

Care should be taken to complete the full course of Duricef. The medication should not be stopped suddenly even if your condition improves within a few days. Doing so may allow the bacteria to resume their growth thus resulting into a relapse of the infection. The medication needs to be gradually decreased as per directions from your doctor. 

Do not increase your dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse consult your doctor immediately.

Duricef warnings and precautions

Duricef is not administered to patients who are allergic to cefadroxil or to any other cephalosporin antibiotics. 

Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your medical conditions, especially if you are allergic to penicillin or if you have history of intestinal problems such as colitis or any kidney disease. Also, tell your doctor if you have diabetes. Duricef contains sucrose and taking the medicine for a longer period may aggravate your diabetic condition.

Duricef is an antibiotic and will not treat viral infections such as flu or common cold.

Cefadroxil can cause diarrhea. Consult your doctor before using any medicine to check the condition. If you have watery or bloody diarrhea, contact your doctor immediately.

The drug may alter the results of certain medical tests including urine blood sugar test.

Pregnant and lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking the drug with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Duricef dose?

If you have missed a Duricef dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Duricef overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Duricef, seek medical attention.

Duricef interactions

Some drugs which may interact with Duricef are: probenecid, live bacterial vaccines etc. The drug reduces efficacy of certain birth control pills. Hence you should use a more reliable form of protection to avoid pregnancy.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before using Duricef.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Duricef side effects

Side effects from Duricef include allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat, hives, redness of skin etc. as well as some serious symptoms such as watery or bloody diarrhea, seizure, jaundice, dark colored urine, weakness, fever, confusion, loss of appetite, increased thirst, shortness of breath, weight gain, decreased urination, swollen glands, pain in joints, unusual bruising or bleeding, symptoms of flu, headache with severe blistering or peeling red skin rash.

Nausea, vomiting, hyperactivity, restlessness, mild diarrhea, stomach ache, mild skin rash, itching, stiff muscles, unpleasant taste in mouth, vaginal itching or discharge are some less serious side effects of Duricef.