Cefadroxil: What It Is and When It’s Used

Cefadroxil is a first‑generation cephalosporin antibiotic. Doctors prescribe it for skin infections, urinary tract infections, and some throat infections. It fights bacteria by breaking down their cell walls, which stops them from multiplying. If you’ve been told to take cefadroxil, it’s because the infection is caused by bacteria that respond well to this class of drugs.

How Cefadroxil Works and What It Treats

When you swallow a cefadroxil tablet, it gets absorbed into your bloodstream and spreads to the infected area. It’s especially good against gram‑positive bugs like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species. That’s why you’ll often see it listed for conditions such as cellulitis, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and certain ear infections. It isn’t the best choice for serious or resistant infections; in those cases doctors might pick a stronger, newer antibiotic.

The typical adult dose is 500 mg every 12 hours, but your doctor may adjust it based on kidney function or infection severity. Kids usually get a weight‑based dose, often 25‑50 mg per kilogram per day divided into two doses. Always follow the exact schedule – skipping doses or stopping early can let the bacteria bounce back.

Safe Buying and Getting the Right Dosage

If you need cefadroxil, the safest route is a licensed pharmacy with a valid prescription. Online pharmacies can be convenient, but you must check they’re registered with your country’s health authority (like the TGA in Australia). Look for clear contact info, a pharmacist‑review process, and secure payment options. Avoid sites that sell the drug without asking for a prescription – they’re often counterfeit or unsafe.

When you receive the medication, inspect the packaging. The label should show the drug name, strength (usually 500 mg), and expiration date. If anything looks off – misspelled words, blurry printing, or a missing batch number – contact the pharmacy right away. Store tablets at room temperature, away from moisture, and keep them out of reach of children.

Common side effects include mild stomach upset, diarrhea, and a rash. These usually clear up on their own, but if you develop a high fever, severe diarrhea, or breathing trouble, stop the drug and call a health professional. Allergic reactions to cephalosporins are rare but can happen, especially if you’re allergic to penicillin.

For those looking for alternatives, amoxicillin or other cephalosporins might work, but only a doctor can decide what’s right for your infection. Never switch antibiotics on your own; doing so can make the infection harder to treat.

Bottom line: cefadroxil is a solid, well‑tolerated option for many routine bacterial infections. Use the exact dose your doctor prescribes, finish the whole course, and buy it from a reputable pharmacy. Doing those three things keeps you safe and helps the infection clear up fast.