adorable baby smiling with joy

Peds Calc

Back to Cefadroxil Overview

Cefadroxil Indications & Clinical Uses

Evidence-based guide for pediatric prescribing

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.

Primary FDA-Approved Indications

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.

Group A streptococcal pharyngitis/tonsillitis

FDA Approved
Children and adolescentsHighFirst-line

Suitable for children with mild non-IgE penicillin reactions when once- or twice-daily dosing aids adherence.

Evidence Sources

()

Uncomplicated skin and soft-tissue infections (MSSA, streptococcal impetigo/cellulitis)

FDA Approved
Children and adolescentsModerate

Provides broader staphylococcal coverage than penicillin VK; combine with incision and drainage when indicated.

Secondary Clinical Uses

Uncomplicated lower urinary tract infection (culture-directed)

Secondary Use
Children ≥3 monthsModerate

Use only when organism is susceptible; nitrofurantoin or TMP-SMX often preferred first-line.

Off-Label Uses

Note: Off-label uses may be clinically appropriate based on evidence and expert consensus, but are not FDA-approved for these indications. Always consider the evidence base and document clinical reasoning.

Recurrent tonsillitis prophylaxis when penicillin not tolerated

Off-Label
Children and adolescents

Specialist decision; weigh resistance and microbiome impact.

•Evidence quality: 80/10
Back to Overview