Drug Notes

Cefaclor (By mouth)

Cefaclor (SEF-a-klor)

Treats bacterial infections. Belongs to a class of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Liquid, Chewable Tablet, Long Acting Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• You may take this medicine with or without food.
• Shake the oral liquid well each time you use it.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Swallow the extended-release tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
• Chew the chewable tablet thoroughly before you swallow it.
• Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.

If a dose is missed:

• Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• You may keep the oral liquid in the refrigerator for 14 days. After that, throw away any unused liquid. Do not freeze.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have had an allergic reaction to a penicillin medicine. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, allergies, or a history of stomach or intestinal problems.
• This medicine can cause diarrhea. Call your doctor if the diarrhea becomes severe, does not stop, or is bloody. Do not take any medicine to stop diarrhea until you have talked to your doctor. Diarrhea can occur 2 months or more after you stop taking this medicine.
• Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
• Raniclor? contains phenylalanine (aspartame). This is only a concern if you have a disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU), which is a problem with amino acids. Talk to your doctor before using this medicine if you have PKU.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering or peeling skin.
• Diarrhea that may contain blood.
• Rash.
• Severe vomiting or stomach pain.
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
• Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild diarrhea.
• Nausea.
• Vaginal itching or discharge.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017