Duricef (cefadroxil) is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic prescribed for the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections. It functions by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death. This oral medication is valued for its broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive and some Gram-negative organisms, its convenient once- or twice-daily dosing regimen, and its generally favorable tolerability profile. Healthcare providers frequently rely on Duricef for common outpatient infections due to its proven efficacy and reliability in clinical practice.

Features

• Active ingredient: Cefadroxil (as monohydrate)
• Drug class: First-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
• Administration: Oral (capsules, tablets, oral suspension)
• Available strengths: 500 mg capsules, 1 g tablets, 250 mg/5 mL and 500 mg/5 mL oral suspension
• Mechanism: Bactericidal; inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis
• Spectrum: Effective against streptococci, staphylococci (including penicillinase-producing strains), E. coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Klebsiella species

Benefits

• Provides effective treatment for common bacterial infections including skin/soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and pharyngitis
• Offers convenient dosing schedule with once- or twice-daily administration, improving patient compliance
• Demonstrates excellent tissue penetration, achieving therapeutic concentrations at infection sites
• Shows stability against bacterial beta-lactamases, maintaining efficacy against many penicillin-resistant strains
• Features generally good gastrointestinal tolerance compared to some other antibiotic classes
• Provides predictable pharmacokinetics with consistent absorption and elimination patterns

Common use

Duricef is commonly prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms. Typical indications include urinary tract infections caused by E. coli, P. mirabilis, and Klebsiella species; skin and skin structure infections caused by staphylococci and streptococci; and pharyngitis and tonsillitis caused by Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci. It may also be used for prophylactic purposes in certain surgical procedures where the surgical site infection risk involves susceptible organisms. The determination of appropriate use should always be based on culture and susceptibility testing when possible, though empirical therapy may be initiated while awaiting results in clinically appropriate situations.

Dosage and direction

The dosage of Duricef varies according to the infection being treated, the severity of infection, and the patient’s renal function. For adults with normal renal function, typical dosages range from 1 to 2 grams daily, administered either as a single dose or in divided doses every 12 hours. For urinary tract infections, the usual adult dose is 1-2 grams daily in single or divided doses. For skin and skin structure infections, the usual adult dose is 1 gram daily in single or divided doses. For pharyngitis and tonsillitis caused by Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci, the recommended dosage is 1 gram daily in single or divided doses for 10 days. Pediatric dosing is based on body weight, typically 30 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours. For patients with impaired renal function, dosage adjustment is necessary based on creatinine clearance. The medication may be taken without regard to meals, though administration with food may minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort.

Precautions

Before prescribing Duricef, healthcare providers should carefully evaluate patient history of hypersensitivity reactions to cephalosporins, penicillins, or other drugs. Use with caution in patients with history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis. Renal function should be assessed, especially in elderly patients or those with pre-existing renal impairment, as dosage adjustments may be required. Prolonged use may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms, including fungi. If superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken. Duricef should be prescribed with caution in patients with history of seizure disorders, as some beta-lactam antibiotics have been associated with seizures in certain clinical situations. Laboratory monitoring of renal and hepatic function may be advisable during prolonged therapy.

Contraindications

Duricef is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to cefadroxil or other cephalosporin antibiotics. Cross-sensitivity between beta-lactam antibiotics may occur; therefore, Duricef should not be administered to patients with history of severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any cephalosporin or penicillin. The medication is also contraindicated in patients who have experienced Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, or other severe cutaneous adverse reactions to cephalosporin therapy. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Possible side effect

The most commonly reported adverse reactions associated with Duricef therapy are gastrointestinal in nature, including diarrhea (approximately 2-3% of patients), nausea (1-2%), and abdominal discomfort. Less frequent side effects may include vomiting, dyspepsia, and glossitis. Hypersensitivity reactions ranging from mild skin rashes (approximately 1-2% of patients) to more severe manifestations such as urticaria, angioedema, and rarely, anaphylaxis have been reported. Transient elevations in liver enzymes, eosinophilia, and mild neutropenia may occur. As with other broad-spectrum antibiotics, pseudomembranous colitis caused by C. difficile has been reported with cephalosporin use. Other rare adverse effects include headache, dizziness, fatigue, and vaginal candidiasis. Most adverse reactions are mild to moderate in severity and self-limiting upon discontinuation of therapy.

Drug interaction

Probenecid may decrease renal tubular secretion of cefadroxil, resulting in increased and prolonged blood levels of the antibiotic. Concurrent administration with nephrotoxic drugs (aminoglycosides, potent diuretics) may increase the risk of renal toxicity. Although not specifically documented with cefadroxil, other cephalosporins have been shown to potentiate the anticoagulant effects of warfarin; close monitoring of coagulation parameters is recommended when these drugs are administered concomitantly. The absorption of cefadroxil may be reduced when taken with medications containing magnesium or aluminum hydroxides. Laboratory test interactions may occur, including false-positive reactions for glucose in urine using Benedict’s or Fehling’s solutions and false-positive direct Coombs test.

Missed dose

If a dose of Duricef is missed, patients should take it as soon as they remember, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining consistent antibiotic blood levels is important for therapeutic efficacy, so patients should be instructed to try to take doses at evenly spaced intervals. Healthcare providers should emphasize the importance of completing the full prescribed course of therapy, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. If multiple doses are missed or there is uncertainty about how to proceed, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance.

Overdose

In case of overdose, supportive measures should be instituted along with careful monitoring of vital signs and clinical status. Gastric lavage may be considered if performed soon after ingestion. Since cefadroxil is eliminated primarily by renal excretion, maintaining adequate urine output is important. Hemodialysis may be effective in removing cefadroxil from the blood, particularly in patients with renal impairment. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. Seizures may occur with substantial overdose, particularly in patients with renal impairment. There is no specific antidote for cefadroxil overdose; treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Serum levels of cefadroxil can be measured if overdose is suspected, though this is not routinely available in most clinical settings.

Storage

Duricef tablets and capsules should be stored at controlled room temperature, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), in a tightly closed container protected from light and moisture. The oral suspension, once reconstituted, should be stored in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F) and discarded after 14 days. The medication should be kept in its original container with the lid tightly closed. All medications should be stored out of reach of children and pets. Patients should be advised not to store Duricef in bathroom cabinets where moisture and temperature fluctuations may degrade the medication. Unused medication should be properly disposed of according to local regulations or through medication take-back programs.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Duricef is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The content presented here is not exhaustive and may not include all possible information about this medication. Healthcare providers should reference the complete prescribing information before initiating therapy. Patients should not make changes to their medication regimen without consulting their healthcare provider. The efficacy and safety profiles described are based on clinical trial data and post-marketing experience, but individual responses may vary. This information does not replace professional medical judgment in individual patient care situations.

Reviews

Clinical studies have demonstrated Duricef’s efficacy in treating various bacterial infections with success rates typically exceeding 85-90% for susceptible organisms. In comparative trials, Duricef has shown equivalent efficacy to other first-generation cephalosporins and certain penicillin antibiotics for approved indications. Healthcare providers frequently report satisfactory clinical outcomes with good patient tolerance. The once-daily dosing regimen is particularly appreciated for improving adherence in outpatient settings. Some studies have noted higher eradication rates for streptococcal pharyngitis compared to certain other antibiotic regimens. The suspension formulation is generally well-accepted by pediatric patients due to its palatability. Long-term clinical experience spanning decades supports Duricef’s position as a reliable option for common bacterial infections, though emerging resistance patterns require ongoing surveillance.