Cefadroxil — quick, practical guide

Cefadroxil is an oral cephalosporin antibiotic you’ll see for simple infections: skin and soft-tissue infections, strep throat, some urinary tract infections, and ear infections. It works by stopping bacteria from building cell walls so they die off. You don’t need to be a pharmacist to use it safely, but a few facts will help you get the most from treatment.

How it’s used and typical dosing

Doctors pick cefadroxil when common bacteria are suspected and an oral option is fine. Typical adult dosing ranges from 500 mg to 1 g once or twice daily depending on the infection and severity. For kids, dosing is usually based on weight — around 30–60 mg per kg per day split into one or two doses. Exact dose and length come from your prescriber; always follow the prescription on the label.

If you have kidney problems, your prescriber may lower the dose or give it less often because the drug leaves the body through the kidneys. Don’t try to guess adjustments yourself — ask for guidance.

Side effects, allergies and safety tips

Common side effects are mild: diarrhea, nausea, and sometimes a skin rash. If you get severe stomach pain, persistent diarrhea (especially watery or bloody), high fever, or signs of an allergic reaction like swelling, hives, or trouble breathing, get medical help right away.

Worried about penicillin allergy? Many people with penicillin allergy can still take cefadroxil, but cross-reaction is possible. If you’ve had a severe reaction to penicillin (anaphylaxis, angioedema, rapid breathing problems), tell your prescriber — they may choose a different antibiotic or test you first.

Interactions are limited but matter: probenecid can raise cefadroxil levels by slowing its excretion. Also tell your provider about other kidney-impacting drugs. Pregnancy data show no clear harm, but discuss risks and benefits with your doctor before starting any antibiotic while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Finish the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can let bacteria survive and become resistant. Never share antibiotics with someone else, and don’t save leftovers for later. Store cefadroxil at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Quick checklist before you take cefadroxil: tell your provider about any penicillin allergy, kidney disease, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and other medicines you take. Ask how long your course should run and when to expect improvement. If symptoms don’t start to get better within 48–72 hours, check back with your clinician.

Cefadroxil is a handy option for common infections when used correctly. Use it as prescribed, watch for side effects, and keep your prescriber in the loop if anything unusual comes up.

Cefadroxil vs. Other Antibiotics: Comparing Effectiveness