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Cefprozil is a second-generation cephalosporin used in pediatrics for select ENT and respiratory infections based on clinical judgment and local patterns.
Consider for acute otitis media, sinusitis, and pharyngitis when amoxicillin or penicillin alternatives are needed.
Dose 15 mg/kg twice daily (maximum 1 g/day) for most pediatric ENT infections; 30 mg/kg/day divided BID for persistent otitis media per guidelines.
Complete the full prescribed course even when symptoms improve to prevent resistance.
Reassess if no clinical improvement within 48–72 hours.
Cefprozil is a second-generation cephalosporin used when aminopenicillins are ineffective or not tolerated in upper respiratory infections.
Consider cefprozil for acute otitis media, sinusitis, and streptococcal infections when beta-lactamase coverage is needed after first-line therapy.
| Condition | Age Range | First Line? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acute otitis media | Children ≥6 months | No | Consider when high-dose amoxicillin or amoxicillin-clavulanate cannot be used; dose 30 mg/kg/day divided BID for 10 days. |
| Acute bacterial rhinosinusitis | Children and adolescents | No | Alternative for patients intolerant of first-line agents when local susceptibility supports a second-generation cephalosporin. |
| Group A streptococcal pharyngitis | Children and adolescents | No | Use 15 mg/kg twice daily (max 500 mg/dose) for 10 days when penicillin cannot be used and immediate IgE allergy is absent. |
| Uncomplicated skin and soft tissue infections due to MSSA or streptococci | Children and adolescents | No | Culture-directed therapy when MRSA risk is low and twice-daily dosing improves adherence. |
FDA-approved primary uses with Level A evidence
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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.
Cefprozil’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
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Cefprozil is dosed once or twice daily; using meal-timed reminders and accurate measurement keeps therapy on track.
Different formulations and concentrations
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Cefprozil is a second-generation cephalosporin that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis with enhanced activity against respiratory pathogens.
It binds penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), blocking peptidoglycan cross-linking. Compared with cefaclor, cefprozil is more stable to beta-lactamases produced by Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis.
Simple explanations and helpful analogies
Receptors, enzymes, and cellular targets
Absorption, metabolism, and elimination
Age-related differences and special populations
Cefprozil bridges the gap between first-line amoxicillin and broader-spectrum cephalosporins. Use it judiciously to manage respiratory infections.
Focus on adherence, allergy verification, and gastrointestinal counseling when prescribing cefprozil.
Document reaction details; refer for allergy testing when history is remote or vague to preserve narrow-spectrum options…
15 mg/kg once daily offers similar outcomes to 7.5 mg/kg BID for streptococcal infections—use when families struggle wit…
Rare immune-mediated rash with arthralgias can occur—stop therapy and evaluate if urticaria, joint pain, or fever develo…
Magnesium/aluminum antacids reduce cefprozil absorption; separate by 2 hours when possible.
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Understanding your child's medication is important. We've created comprehensive guides to help you safely administer Cefprozil and monitor your child's response to treatment.
Ear pain or sinus pressure generally improves within 48–72 hours. If symptoms persist or worsen after three days, contact your clinician for reassessment.
Cefprozil can be taken with or without food. Giving it with a small snack may reduce stomach upset.
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember unless the next dose is due within 4 hours. Do not double doses—resume the regular schedule.
Yes. Offering yogurt with live cultures or a probiotic supplement may help minimize antibiotic-associated diarrhea, provided your clinician has not advised otherwise.
Tell your clinician about any penicillin reactions. Children with mild delayed rashes often tolerate cefprozil, but a history of anaphylaxis or severe skin reaction requires alternative therapy.