Cefprozil Tablets

Generic name:

Cefprozil

Drug class:

Second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic

Dosage form:

Film-coated tablets: 250 mg, 500 mg

Root of administration:

Oral

Dose:

Adults: 250–500 mg every 12–24 hours for 7–14 days depending on indication. Children: 7.5–15 mg/kg every 12 hours (maximum 500 mg per dose). In renal impairment (CrCl <50 mL/min), adjust dosage. Varies by indication; consult label.

Mechanism of action:

Cefprozil inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to cell lysis and death.

Drug usage cases:

• Acute otitis media
• Pharyngitis and tonsillitis
• Acute bacterial sinusitis
• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
• Skin and skin structure infections (e.g., cellulitis, impetigo)
• Streptococcal pharyngitis
• Off-label: Lyme disease prophylaxis (Borrelia burgdorferi), gonorrhea

Drug contra indications:

• Hypersensitivity to cefprozil, other cephalosporins, penicillins, or beta-lactam antibiotics
• History of severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to beta-lactams
• Active gastrointestinal disease, including pseudomembranous colitis

Side effects:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain and dyspepsia
• Rash, urticaria, pruritus
• Headache and dizziness
• Vaginal candidiasis or yeast infections
• Elevated liver enzymes (AST, ALT)
• Renal impairment or interstitial nephritis (rare)
• Hematologic: neutropenia, thrombocytosis, eosinophilia, hemolytic anemia (rare)
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea

Warnings:

• Risk of hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis; possible cross-reactivity with penicillins
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea can occur; discontinue if severe
• Caution in renal impairment; dosage adjustment required
• May interfere with certain laboratory tests (e.g., direct Coombs test)
• Caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis
• Monitor complete blood count during prolonged therapy

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding:

Pregnancy: Category B. Animal studies have not shown fetal harm; no adequate human studies. Use only if clearly needed.
Breastfeeding: Excreted in breast milk. Monitor infants for diarrhea, candidiasis, or allergic reactions. Weigh benefits against potential risks.