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Cefadroxil is a first-generation cephalosporin used in pediatrics for select skin and soft tissue infections and other indications when appropriate.
Long half-life allows once- or twice-daily dosing (25–30 mg/kg/day divided q12h for most indications).
Excellent coverage of Gram-positive organisms including MSSA and Group A Streptococcus; limited Gram-negative coverage (Proteus, E. coli, Klebsiella).
Use culture-guided therapy for recurrent UTIs and cellulitis to confirm susceptibility.
Assess for clinical improvement within 48 hours; escalate care for spreading cellulitis or systemic symptoms.
Cefadroxil is a first-generation cephalosporin with excellent activity against streptococci and methicillin-susceptible staphylococci. Use it when once- or twice-daily dosing improves adherence or when penicillins are not an option.
Reserve cefadroxil for streptococcal pharyngitis in penicillin-allergic patients without immediate reactions, uncomplicated skin/soft-tissue infections, and selected urinary tract infections based on susceptibility.
| Condition | Age Range | First Line? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acute otitis media (beta-lactamase risk) | Children ≥6 months | No | Consider when high-dose amoxicillin is not tolerated or has failed and susceptibility data support a first-generation cephalosporin. |
| Acute bacterial rhinosinusitis | Children and adolescents | No | Reserve for patients who cannot take amoxicillin-clavulanate and have low risk of resistant pathogens. |
| Group A streptococcal pharyngitis | Children and adolescents | No | 20 mg/kg (max 500 mg) twice daily for 10 days is an acceptable alternative in patients without immediate penicillin allergy. |
| Uncomplicated skin and soft tissue infections due to MSSA or streptococci | Children and adolescents | No | Useful when culture confirms susceptible organisms and adherence to twice-daily dosing is feasible; avoid if MRSA is suspected. |
FDA-approved primary uses with Level A evidence
Quick selection guides and diagnostic pearls
When to consider other medications
How to explain treatment to families
Most side effects are mild and self‑limited. Gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, nausea) and rash are most common in children. Serious reactions like anaphylaxis or C. difficile–associated diarrhea (CDAD) are rare but require urgent care.
Cefadroxil’s pediatric safety profile is similar to other oral cephalosporins. GI upset often improves if given with food. Allergic reactions can occur in those with beta‑lactam hypersensitivity.
Diarrhea
Common • mild
Nausea/Vomiting
Common • mild
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Rash (maculopapular)
Common • variable
Urticaria (hives)
Uncommon • moderate
Anaphylaxis
Rare • severe
Headache
Common • mild
Organized by affected organ systems
How to discuss side effects with families
Management protocols and monitoring
Common concerns and practical guidance
Cefadroxil’s long half-life allows once- or twice-daily dosing. Accurate measurement and meal-paired reminders help families complete the full course.
Different formulations and concentrations
Safe preparation and measuring techniques
Tailored approaches for different ages
Solutions for common challenges
Storage guidelines and safety tips
Expert pearls and evidence-based tips
Cefadroxil is a first-generation cephalosporin structurally similar to cephalexin. It disrupts bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs).
With a long serum half-life, cefadroxil maintains concentrations above the MIC for gram-positive cocci for longer periods than many oral cephalosporins, supporting once- or twice-daily dosing.
Simple explanations and helpful analogies
Receptors, enzymes, and cellular targets
Absorption, metabolism, and elimination
Age-related differences and special populations
Use these pearls to maximize cefadroxil’s convenience while minimizing resistance risk.
Emphasize targeted use, allergy clarification, and adherence aids for once-daily regimens.
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Adequate fluids reduce GI upset and help prevent crystalluria in renal impairment—especially important when once-daily d…
Core insights every provider should know
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Organized by dosing, administration, and safety
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Understanding your child's medication is important. We've created comprehensive guides to help you safely administer Cefadroxil and monitor your child's response to treatment.
Your clinician will choose once-daily or divided dosing based on the infection and total mg/kg required. Take it exactly as prescribed to maintain steady drug levels.
Give it when you remember unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double up; resume the regular schedule and notify your clinician if multiple doses are missed.
Many children feel better within 48–72 hours. Contact your clinician if symptoms worsen, fever persists, or new rash develops.
Yes, the suspension should be stored in the refrigerator and discarded after 14 days. Shake well before each dose to ensure even medicine distribution.