Cephradine is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, a semi-synthetic drug developed in the late 1960s. This medication is prescribed to combat various bacterial infections throughout the body. It works by targeting and eliminating harmful bacteria.
Infections Cephradine Treats
Cephradine is prescribed for common bacterial infections affecting different parts of the body. It is effective in treating respiratory tract infections, which can include conditions like bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, pharyngitis, and tonsillitis.
The antibiotic also treats skin and soft tissue infections, such as cellulitis and abscesses. These infections often manifest as redness, swelling, pain, and warmth on the skin. Furthermore, cephradine is effective against urinary tract infections (UTIs), including cystitis and pyelonephritis, which can cause discomfort related to urination. Ear infections are another common ailment for which cephradine may be prescribed.
How Cephradine Works
Cephradine interferes with the construction of bacterial cell walls, which are external structures that protect bacteria. As a beta-lactam antibiotic, it binds to specific proteins within the bacterial cell wall, known as penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). This binding inhibits the final stage of peptidoglycan synthesis, a process necessary for forming a strong and complete bacterial cell wall.
Disruption of cell wall synthesis leads to the formation of a defective and unstable cell wall. This structural weakness causes the bacterial cell to lyse, or break open, leading to the death of the bacterium. Cephradine’s mechanism specifically targets bacteria without harming human cells.
Key Considerations for Use
Before taking cephradine, discuss any allergies with a healthcare provider, especially if there is a history of allergic reactions to penicillin or other cephalosporin antibiotics like cefaclor or cephalexin. An allergic reaction to cephradine can manifest as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, requiring immediate medical attention. Individuals with kidney disease, including those on dialysis, or a history of intestinal problems should also inform their doctor, as these conditions may influence how the medication is used.
Common side effects of cephradine can include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. More serious, though rare, side effects can occur, such as severe allergic reactions, watery or bloody diarrhea, fever, chills, unusual bleeding, or seizures. Regular monitoring of blood clotting parameters is advisable when cephradine is used concurrently with anticoagulants.
Other antibiotics, particularly aminoglycosides, can have additive effects on kidney function when used with cephradine. The risk of increased nephrotoxicity can also be elevated when cephradine is combined with certain drugs like carboplatin or carprofen. Cephradine can lead to false results in some medical tests, including urine glucose tests, which is important for individuals managing diabetes.
Administering and Storing Cephradine
Cephradine can be taken with or without food. It is important to complete the entire course of treatment as prescribed by the doctor, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. This practice helps ensure the infection is fully eradicated and reduces the risk of developing antibiotic resistance.
Cephradine is available in various forms, including capsules for oral administration and suspensions. The typical adult dosage for oral cephradine ranges from 250 mg to 1 gram, taken every 6 to 12 hours, depending on the infection’s type and severity. Pediatric dosages are adjusted based on body weight and the specific condition being treated. For proper storage, cephradine should be kept according to the instructions provided, and always out of the reach of children.