Common use
Ceclor CD (cefaclor extended-release) is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic formulated for controlled delivery. It is indicated for the treatment of susceptible bacterial infections, including acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, pharyngitis and tonsillitis due to Streptococcus pyogenes, acute otitis media, uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, and select uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Its spectrum includes common pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, H. influenzae, M. catarrhalis, S. pyogenes, methicillin-susceptible S. aureus, E. coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Klebsiella species. It does not cover atypical organisms, MRSA, Pseudomonas, or most anaerobes.
As a beta-lactam antibiotic, cefaclor inhibits bacterial cell-wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell lysis. The “CD” (controlled delivery) tablet maintains steadier drug levels with twice-daily dosing when taken with food, which can improve adherence compared to immediate-release formulations dosed three times daily. As with all antibiotics, it should be reserved for infections that are likely bacterial, guided by clinical assessment and local resistance patterns, and used for the shortest effective duration to support antimicrobial stewardship.
Dosage and direction
Ceclor CD is taken by mouth, typically twice daily, and should be swallowed whole with food; do not crush, split, or chew the extended-release tablets, as doing so can alter absorption and increase side effects. The dose and duration depend on the infection type, severity, patient age, kidney function, and local susceptibility patterns. Your clinician will individualize the regimen; never self-dose or adjust without medical guidance.
General principles for cefaclor extended-release include: take doses at evenly spaced intervals (for example, every 12 hours), start therapy promptly once a bacterial infection is diagnosed or strongly suspected, and complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve earlier. Stopping too soon may allow partially suppressed bacteria to rebound and promotes antibiotic resistance.
For patients with reduced kidney function, dosing adjustments may be required. In older adults, renal assessment helps determine an appropriate schedule. Pediatric use of extended-release tablets depends on the child’s ability to swallow tablets; pediatric suspensions of immediate-release cefaclor are used more commonly in younger children. If you experience bothersome stomach upset, ensure doses are taken with meals and discuss supportive measures with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Precautions
Allergy risk: Do not use Ceclor CD if you have a known severe hypersensitivity to cefaclor or other cephalosporins. Use with caution if you have a history of immediate-type hypersensitivity to penicillins, as cross-reactivity can occur. Seek urgent care for signs of anaphylaxis (hives, swelling of face or throat, wheezing, severe dizziness).
Gastrointestinal disease: Antibiotics can disrupt normal gut flora. If you have a history of colitis (including C. difficile), discuss risks and warning signs such as persistent or severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, or blood/mucus in stool. Do not use antidiarrheals for suspected antibiotic-associated colitis unless directed by a clinician.
Renal function and other considerations: Patients with moderate to severe renal impairment may need dose or interval adjustments. Older adults may be more sensitive to adverse effects. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, cefaclor has a generally favorable safety profile when clearly indicated, but you should review risks and benefits with your obstetric provider. As with all antibiotics, avoid unnecessary use for viral illnesses such as the common cold or influenza.
Contraindications
Ceclor CD is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to cefaclor or to any cephalosporin antibiotics. It should also be avoided following prior severe immediate reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, Stevens–Johnson syndrome) to beta-lactams. Patients with a history of serum sickness-like reactions to cefaclor—characterized by fever, rash, and joint pain—require careful risk–benefit assessment and typically should not be rechallenged.
Use caution or consider alternatives in individuals with a severe, immediate-type penicillin allergy, given potential cross-reactivity. In all cases, a thorough allergy history should guide antibiotic selection.
Possible side effects
Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea), headache, and mild rash. Taking Ceclor CD with food helps reduce stomach upset. Yeast overgrowth (e.g., oral thrush or vaginal candidiasis) can occur during or after therapy and may require antifungal treatment.
Allergic reactions range from mild urticaria to severe events. Cefaclor has been associated with serum sickness-like reactions, particularly in children, presenting with fever, rash, and arthralgia; prompt medical evaluation is required if these symptoms arise. Rare but serious adverse events include anaphylaxis, severe cutaneous reactions (e.g., Stevens–Johnson syndrome), hemolytic anemia, interstitial nephritis, hepatic enzyme elevations, and seizures (usually in the context of renal impairment or very high doses).
Antibiotic-associated diarrhea, including C. difficile infection, can occur during therapy or several weeks after completion. Contact your clinician if you develop persistent watery stools, cramping, or fever. Lab interferences such as a positive direct Coombs’ test or false-positive urine glucose with certain non-enzymatic tests have been reported with cephalosporins. Report unexpected symptoms and seek urgent care for signs of severe reaction (swelling, breathing difficulty, peeling rash, jaundice, dark urine, significant bruising/bleeding).
Drug interactions
Probenecid can increase cefaclor levels by reducing renal tubular secretion, potentially raising the risk of adverse effects. Concomitant use with oral anticoagulants such as warfarin may potentiate anticoagulation and elevate INR; monitor closely, especially in older adults or those with comorbidities. Live attenuated oral typhoid vaccine efficacy may be reduced by concurrent antibiotics; schedule vaccination at least 3 days after completing therapy if possible.
Because Ceclor CD absorption is enhanced with food, take it with meals consistently. Binding resins (e.g., cholestyramine) may reduce absorption of some medications; separate dosing if advised by your pharmacist. Combining beta-lactams with other bacteriostatic agents (e.g., tetracyclines) may theoretically reduce activity; the clinical significance is context-dependent and should be guided by your prescriber. Concomitant nephrotoxic agents (e.g., high-dose loop diuretics, aminoglycosides) warrant monitoring of renal function, especially in vulnerable patients.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Ceclor CD, take it as soon as you remember with food. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up. Keeping doses evenly spaced (e.g., every 12 hours) helps maintain steady antibiotic levels. Consider medication reminders to support adherence and reduce the risk of treatment failure or resistance.
Overdose
Overdose may cause pronounced gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain), dizziness, or, rarely, neurologic symptoms such as agitation or seizures—especially in patients with kidney impairment. If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or contact Poison Control (in the U.S., 1-800-222-1222). Management is supportive; maintain hydration, protect the airway if needed, and monitor renal function and electrolytes. Cefaclor is dialyzable to some extent; clinicians may consider hemodialysis in severe cases, though most overdoses are managed conservatively.
Storage
Store Ceclor CD tablets at controlled room temperature (generally 20–25°C/68–77°F) in a dry place away from excess heat and moisture. Keep in the original, tightly closed container and out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date. If your medication looks damaged or discolored, consult your pharmacist before use. Dispose of unused antibiotic responsibly according to local guidance—avoid flushing unless specifically instructed.
U.S. Sale and Prescription Policy
In the United States, Ceclor CD (cefaclor extended-release) is a prescription-only medication. Federal and state laws require a valid prescription from a licensed clinician after an appropriate evaluation. Reputable pharmacies will not dispense cephalosporin antibiotics without a prescription. Be cautious of websites that advertise “no prescription needed” or promise to let you buy Ceclor CD without prescription; such offers often bypass safety checks, may be illegal, and can involve substandard or counterfeit products.
For safe, legal access, consider scheduling an in-person or telehealth visit with a licensed provider who can determine whether Ceclor CD is appropriate and, if indicated, issue a prescription. HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Las Vegas supports structured, compliant pathways to care by working with patients and prescribers; they can help coordinate legitimate prescriptions, verify insurance coverage, and provide counseling on correct use. This ensures you receive authentic medication, proper dosing guidance, and monitoring for effectiveness and side effects.
Antibiotics play a critical role in health, but inappropriate or unsupervised use drives resistance and can harm patients. The safest approach is to obtain Ceclor CD through a licensed clinician and a legitimate pharmacy, with therapy individualized to your medical history, local resistance patterns, and specific infection.
