Duricef

Why should Duricef not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to a cephalosporin antibiotic, you should not take Duricef.

Special warnings about Duricef

If you have allergies, particularly to drugs, or often develop diarrhea when taking other antibiotics, you should tell your doctor before taking Duricef.

Also be sure to let the doctor know if you have a kidney disorder. Duricef should be used with caution under these circumstances, and the doctor may want to prescribe a lower dose.

Use Duricef with caution if you have a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly inflammation of the bowel (colitis).

Continued or prolonged use of Duricef may result in the growth of bacteria that do not respond to this medication and can cause a second infection.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Duricef

No significant interactions have been reported.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Duricef during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Duricef may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing your baby until your treatment time with Duricef is finished.

Recommended dosage for Duricef

ADULTS

Urinary Tract Infections

The usual dosage for uncomplicated infections is a total of 1 to 2 grams per day in a single dose or 2 smaller doses. For all other urinary tract infections, the usual dosage is a total of 2 grams per day taken in 2 doses.

Skin and Skin Structure Infections

The usual dose is a total of 1 gram per day in a single dose or 2 smaller doses.

Throat Infections—Strep Throat and Tonsillitis:

The usual dosage is a total of 1 gram per day in a single dose or 2 smaller doses for 10 days.

CHILDREN

For urinary tract and skin infections, the usual dose is 30 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day, divided into 2 doses and taken every 12 hours. For throat infections, the recommended dose per day is 30 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight in a single dose or 2 smaller doses. In the treatment of strep throat, the dose should be taken for at least 10 days.

OLDER ADULTS

Your dose may be reduced by your doctor.

Overdosage

Duricef is generally safe. However, large amounts may cause seizures or the side effects listed above. If you suspect an overdose of Duricef, seek medical attention immediately.