Cefadroxil is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic which is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. Like most medications, cefadroxil may cause a number of side effects. In some cases, side effects of cefadroxil may indicate more serious medical problems which warrant emergency treatment.
Nausea and Vomiting
Mild nausea is a common side effect of any antibiotic, including cefadroxil. Other patients may experience generalized stomach upset. In some cases, nausea may become more severe and lead to vomiting. Side effects of cefadroxil that are related to the stomach may be lessened in severity by taking the medication with food. Severe or excessive vomiting should be reported to a physician as it may lead to dehydration.
Diarrhea
Some patients who take cefadroxil will experience diarrhea. In most cases, diarrhea is mild and will resolve once the medication is finished. Prescribing information provided by Drugs.com states that, though rare, diarrhea, particularly if watery or bloody, may indicate the development of a more severe condition known as pseudomembranous colitis, which is an overgrowth of a bacterium known as Clostridium difficile. Pseudomembranous colitis may occur during treatment or may occur several days after the medication is complete. Any severe diarrhea, particularly if watery or bloody should be reported to a physician immediately.
Rash
Some patients may develop rash or other symptoms of allergic reaction with the use of cephalosporins such as cefadroxil. Patients who are allergic to other cephalosporins should not take cefadroxil. In addition, some patients who are allergic to penicillin-type antibiotics may also be allergic to cephalosporins like cefadroxil and will be unable to tolerate them. In rare cases, a more serious allergy-related rash may occur, known as Stevens Johnson Syndrome, that may be life threatening. The physician should be informed of all medication allergies before any medication is prescribed. If symptoms of severe allergic reaction such as severe rash, hives, swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing occur, emergency medical treatment may be warranted.
Vaginal or Groin Infection
As cefadroxil is an antibiotic, it may cause some of the good bacteria inhabiting the skin and genital areas to be killed. This may result in an overgrowth of yeast, known as Candida albicans or other opportunistic micro-organisms. Yeast infection of the vaginal area or groin may cause symptoms of rash, itching and discharge. Vaginal yeast infections and groin infections are often effectively treated with over-the-counter antifungal medications, but severe cases may need attention by a physician.
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