Other Brands/Names

Dynacef, Lovecef.

How It Works

Cefradine is a member of the cephalosporin class of antibiotics. It functions by preventing the growth of bacteria.

Indications

Cefradine is prescribed to treat various bacterial infections, including pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections, as well as infections in the bones, skin, ears, and urinary tract.

Contraindications

This medication should not be used by individuals with a history of allergy to cefradine or other cephalosporin antibiotics.

Side Effects

• Some common side effects of cefradine include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
• Long-term or repeated use of this medication may lead to yeast infections in the mouth or genital areas. If you notice white patches in your mouth or unusual vaginal discharge, or experience other signs of a yeast infection, consult your doctor.
• Cefradine can also cause severe intestinal upset caused by a bacteria called Clostridium difficile. This may occur during treatment or even weeks to months after stopping the medication. Contact your doctor right away if you experience persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or blood/mucus in your stool.
• In rare cases, a serious allergic reaction to this drug may occur. If you experience symptoms such as rash, itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Types

Cefradine is available in two forms, as an injectable druh (1 gram per vial) and as a dry syrup (250 mg per 5 ml).

Dosage

Oral Dosage

• Adults: 1-2 grams per day, divided into 2-4 doses. The maximum daily dose is 4 grams.

• Children: 25-50 mg/kg per day, divided into 2-4 doses. For treating otitis media (middle ear infection), the recommended dosage is 75-100 mg/kg per day in divided doses every 6-12 hours. The maximum daily dose for children is 4 grams.

Injectable Dosage

• Adults: 2-4 grams per day, administered in 4 divided doses via intramuscular injection, slow intravenous injection over 3-5 minutes, or IV infusion. The maximum daily dose is 8 grams.

• Children: 50-100 mg/kg per day, divided into 4 doses. This dosage may be increased to 200-300 mg/kg per day for severe infections.

Safety

• Cefradine can reduce the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine. Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking cefradine before getting any vaccinations.

• This medication should be used during pregnancy only if necessary. It's important to discuss potential risks and benefits with your doctor.

• The effects of cefradine on breast milk are not known. Consult with your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug Interactions

• Cefradine may increase kidney damage (nephrotoxic) effects when taken with diuretics (medications that help the body remove excess salt and water through urine).

• If taken with probenecid (a drug that lowers uric acid levels), cefradine blood levels may rise.

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