DROX 250 250MG/5ML SUSPENSION

Indications

• Susceptible infections due to sensitive Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Pharyngitis
• Tonsillitis

Dosage

Children: Child 1 month–11 years: 25 mg/kg 2–4 times a day (max. per dose 1 g).

Adults: 250 mg every 6 hours, alternatively 500 mg every 8 to 12 hours; increased to 1 to 1.5 g every 6 to 8 hours for severe infections.

Mechanism of action

Cefadroxil binds to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, inhibiting the third and last stage of bacterial cell wall synthesis. This action results in cell lysis, which is mediated by bacterial cell wall autolytic enzymes, such as autolysins. Cefadroxil may also interfere with an autolysin inhibitor, further promoting bacterial cell death.

Pharmacodynamics

As a first-generation cephalosporin, cefadroxil exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, particularly against Gram-positive organisms. It is commonly used for treating urinary tract infections and soft tissue infections, as well as respiratory tract infections like pharyngitis and tonsillitis. Its pharmacological effectiveness stems from its ability to disrupt peptidoglycan maturation in bacterial cell walls.

Pharmacokinetics

Cefadroxil is well-absorbed after oral administration and achieves peak plasma concentrations within 1 to 2 hours. It has a half-life of approximately 1 hour, with renal excretion being the primary route of elimination. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients with renal impairment, as the drug may accumulate.

Contra-indications

• Hypersensitivity to cefadroxil or any other cephalosporins
• History of immediate hypersensitivity to penicillin and other beta-lactams

Adverse effects

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Dizziness
• Eosinophilia
• Headache
• Leucopenia
• Nausea
• Neutropenia
• Pseudomembranous colitis
• Skin reactions
• Thrombocytopenia
• Vomiting
• Vulvovaginal candidiasis
• Agranulocytosis (rare)
• Hemolytic anemia (rare)
• Tubulointerstitial nephritis (reversible, rare)
• Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs, rare)

Interactions

• Increased risk of nephrotoxicity when used with other nephrotoxic agents
• Probenecid may increase levels by decreasing renal clearance

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
• Monitor for signs of anaphylaxis
• Cross-sensitivity with penicillins and other beta-lactams

Pregnancy

Not known to be harmful during pregnancy.

Breast-feeding

Present in milk in low concentration, but generally considered appropriate to use.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

• Capsule 500 mg
• Suspension for oral use
• Tablet 250 mg

Mechanism of action

Like all beta-lactam antibiotics, cefadroxil binds to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, causing the inhibition of the third and last stage of bacterial cell wall synthesis. Cell lysis is then mediated by bacterial cell wall autolytic enzymes such as autolysins; it is possible that cefadroxil interferes with an autolysin inhibitor.

Pharmacodynamics

Cefadroxil, a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, is used to treat urinary tract infections, skin and skin structure infections, pharyngitis, and tonsillitis.