Cefaclor Flashcards

Cefaclor Overview

• Generic Name: Cefaclor
• Trade Name: Ceclor

Classification and Formulation

• Classification: Antibiotic, Second-Generation Cephalosporin
• Availability: Offered in 250mg and 500mg capsules, 500mg sustained release tablets, and various suspension forms (e.g., 125mg/5ml, 250mg/5ml).

Mechanism of Action

• Action: Semisynthetic second-generation antibiotic effective against certain gram-negative bacteria, particularly beta-lactamase producing Haemophilus influenzae and resistant strains.
• Binding: Binds to penicillin-binding proteins on the cell walls of susceptible organisms.

Therapeutic Uses

• Indications: Treats otitis media, respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and skin infections, particularly those caused by ampicillin-resistant strains.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity: Not recommended for patients with hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or related antibiotics.

Adverse Effects

• Common Reactions: May cause serum sickness-like reactions, eosinophilia, joint pain, fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and anorexia.
• Rare Complications: Pseudomembranous colitis; dermatological reactions include urticaria, pruritus, and morbilliform eruptions.

Nursing Implications

• Assessment: Check for any history of hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or other antibiotics before initiating treatment.
• Monitoring: Regular culture and sensitivity tests during therapy. Report persistent diarrhea and monitor allergic reactions or signs of superinfection.

Patient Education

• Awareness: Patients advised to report any signs of superinfection.
• Prophylactic Measures: Consuming yogurt and milk may help maintain intestinal flora and prevent superinfections, if appropriate.