Duricef (cefadroxil) is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic indicated for the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections. As an oral medication with a broad spectrum of activity, it provides clinicians with a reliable option for managing common community-acquired infections. Its once- or twice-daily dosing regimen supports patient adherence, while its bactericidal action ensures effective eradication of susceptible pathogens. This product card provides a comprehensive overview of Duricef for healthcare professionals.

Features

• Active ingredient: cefadroxil (as monohydrate)
• Available in 500 mg and 1 g tablets, and oral suspension (125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL, 500 mg/5 mL)
• Bactericidal mechanism: inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis
• Broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive and some Gram-negative organisms
• Extended half-life allowing for less frequent dosing compared to other cephalosporins
• Stable in acidic gastric environment, supporting predictable oral absorption

Benefits

• Provides effective treatment for common bacterial infections including skin/soft tissue, urinary tract, and pharyngitis
• Convenient dosing schedule (once or twice daily) enhances patient compliance
• Demonstrates reliable bioavailability and consistent pharmacokinetic profile
• Offers a well-tolerated alternative for patients with penicillin allergies (with appropriate caution)
• Established safety profile with extensive clinical use history
• Available in multiple formulations to accommodate different patient populations

Common use

Duricef is indicated for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of designated microorganisms, including:

• Pharyngitis and tonsillitis caused by Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci
• Skin and skin structure infections caused by staphylococci and/or streptococci
• Urinary tract infections caused by Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Klebsiella species
• Prophylaxis against bacterial endocarditis in certain high-risk patients undergoing dental procedures

Dosage and direction

Adults: The usual adult dosage is 1-2 grams per day administered in single or divided doses. For urinary tract infections: 1-2 grams daily in single or divided doses. For skin and skin structure infections: 1 gram daily. For pharyngitis and tonsillitis: 1 gram daily for 10 days.

Children: The recommended daily dosage for children is 30 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours. For pharyngitis: 30 mg/kg/day in divided doses for 10 days.

Administration: May be administered without regard to meals. Oral suspension should be shaken well before each use. Complete the full course of therapy even if symptoms improve earlier.

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis
• Prescribe with care in patients with renal impairment; dosage adjustment required
• May result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms including fungi
• Prolonged use may result in superinfection
• Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed (Pregnancy Category B)
• Exercise caution when administering to nursing mothers
• False-positive reactions for glucose in urine may occur with Benedict’s or Fehling’s solutions

Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to cefadroxil or other cephalosporin antibiotics
• Patients with history of anaphylactic reactions to penicillins (cross-sensitivity may occur in up to 10% of patients)
• Not indicated for the treatment of viral infections

Possible side effect

Common (≥1%):

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Rash
• Pruritus

Less common (<1%):

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Vaginitis
• Transient elevations in liver enzymes
• Eosinophilia

Rare but serious:

• Pseudomembranous colitis
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome
• Anaphylaxis
• Blood dyscrasias (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)
• Interstitial nephritis

Drug interaction

• Probenecid may decrease renal tubular secretion of cefadroxil, increasing blood levels
• May affect intestinal flora leading to reduced estrogen reabsorption, potentially decreasing efficacy of oral contraceptives
• False-positive Coombs test possible
• Increased nephrotoxicity potential when used with other nephrotoxic drugs
• May enhance anticoagulant effect of warfarin; monitor INR regularly

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, and diarrhea. In cases of significant overdose, hemodialysis may aid in removal of cefadroxil from the bloodstream. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive.

Storage

Store tablets at controlled room temperature (20-25°C/68-77°F). Keep oral suspension refrigerated (2-8°C/36-46°F); discard unused portion after 14 days. Keep container tightly closed. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult appropriate prescribing information before administration. The prescriber should consider official prescribing information for complete details regarding indications, dosage, warnings, and precautions.

Reviews

“Duricef has been a reliable choice in my practice for uncomplicated skin infections and strep pharyngitis. The once-daily dosing is particularly advantageous for patient compliance.” - Infectious Disease Specialist, 15 years experience

“Effective for community-acquired UTIs with good tolerability profile. The suspension formulation makes it suitable for pediatric patients when indicated.” - Family Medicine Physician

“While generally well-tolerated, I always counsel patients about the possibility of gastrointestinal side effects and the importance of completing the full course.” - Clinical Pharmacist