ACTIDROX 250

Indications

• Skin infections
• Soft tissue infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Respiratory tract infections
• Bone infections

Dosage

Children: Refer to BNF for Children for appropriate dosing based on age and weight.

Adults: Refer to clinical guidelines for dosing based on specific infections and patient characteristics.

Mechanism of action

Cefadroxil binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall. This binding inhibits the transpeptidation enzyme, which is crucial for cross-linking peptidoglycan layers in the bacterial cell wall. As a result, the integrity of the cell wall is compromised, leading to cell lysis and death, particularly in actively dividing bacteria.

Pharmacodynamics

Cefadroxil exhibits time-dependent bactericidal activity, meaning its effectiveness is related to the duration of time the drug concentration remains above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for the target bacteria. It is generally effective against Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-sensitive strains), Escherichia coli, and other organisms. Resistance mechanisms may include the production of beta-lactamases, altering the target PBPs, and reduced permeability of the bacterial cell wall.

Pharmacokinetics

Cefadroxil is administered orally and is well absorbed, with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 1 to 2 hours after ingestion. It is distributed widely in body tissues and fluids, including urine, where it reaches therapeutic concentrations. Cefadroxil is minimally metabolized in the liver and is primarily excreted unchanged through the kidneys, with a half-life of about 1 to 2 hours in individuals with normal renal function.

Contra-indications

• Hypersensitivity to cefadroxil or any other cephalosporins
• History of severe allergic reactions to penicillin
• Severe renal impairment

Adverse effects

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Urticaria
• Abdominal pain
• Cephalosporin-associated colitis
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Nephrotoxicity

Interactions

• Probenecid may increase cefadroxil levels by decreasing renal clearance
• Concomitant use of nephrotoxic drugs may increase the risk of renal toxicity

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis
• Caution in patients with renal impairment; dosage adjustment may be necessary
• Monitor for signs of anaphylaxis in patients with a history of penicillin allergy

Pregnancy

Cefadroxil is classified as a Category B drug. Animal reproduction studies have not shown a risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed.

Breast-feeding

Cefadroxil is excreted in breast milk. Caution should be exercised when administering to a nursing mother, as adverse effects in breastfed infants are possible.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

• Capsules
• Oral suspension