Cephalosporins refer to a set of antibiotic medications used to destroy bacteria. According to Drugs.com, cephalosporins can be used to manage such treatments as sinusitis, bacterial endocarditis (infection of the heart's inner lining) and meliodosis (a type of infectious disease). Common cephalosporins may be available as a tablet or injection.
Cefaclor
Cefaclor, commonly sold as Ceclor, is an antibiotic medication used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. Drugs.com says cefaclor's common effects include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, stiff muscles and vaginal discharge. Cefaclor can also cause skin rash, vaginal itching, restlessness, hyperactivity and drowsiness. Contact a physician when cefaclor's common effects remain for more than six or seven days.
Cefaclor's serious effects include seizures, abnormal bleeding, poor appetite and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). Other serious effects include confusion, weakness, fever, dark-colored urine, headache and shortness of breath. Call a doctor when cefaclor causes these effects.
Cefaclor's dose must be changed when a person suffers from kidney or intestinal disease. Cefaclor is available as an extended-release tablet that should be taken as prescribed.
Cefadroxil
Cefadroxil, commonly sold as Duricef, also fights bacterial infections. Drugs.com sayscefadroxil's common effects include joint pain, restlessness, muscle tightness, stomach pain and diarrhea. Cefadroxil also causes a skin rash and a strange taste sensation in the mouth. Contact a doctor when cefadroxil's common effects remain for more than a week.
Cefadroxil's serious effects include fevers, chills, abnormal bleeding or bruising, weakness, confusion, yellowing of the skin (jaundice),poor appetite and weight gain. This drug also causes body aches, increased thirst, decreased urination and swelling. Notify a doctor immediately when cefadroxil's serious effects emerge.
Do not take cefadroxil if you're allergic to other cephalosporin medications. Difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of the face, tongue or throat are a few signs of an allergic reaction.
Cefadroxil is available as a capsule, tablet or liquid. Take it for as long as a physician instructs.
Cefazolin
Cefazolin, sold as Ancef, is an antibiotic medication used to eliminate bacteria in the skin, lungs, bones, stomach, blood, heart valve and urinary tract. MedlinePlus says cefazolin's common side effects include stomach pain, diarrhea and vomiting. Notify a physician when cefazolin's common effects remain for more than one week.
Cefazolin's serious side effects include itching, skin rash, sore throat or mouth, abnormal bleeding or bruising and itching. Tell a doctor immediately when cefazolin causes these effects. Signs of an infection to cefazolin include swelling, redness, warmth, irritation and pain.
Cefazolin is available as an injection into muscle or as an intravenous (though the vein) fluid drip given two to four times daily.
