Cefprozil is an antibiotic that belongs to the second generation group of cephalosporins. Similar to that of the other second-generation cephalosporins, it is slightly less active against Gram-positive bacteria but more effective on Gram-negative bacteria such as Enterobacteriaceae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis. It acts by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial wall.
Similar to that of other cephalosporins, this antibiotic has the ability to bind to the transpeptidase enzymes that serve to create the bonds between the peptidoglycan chains (the polymers essential for the formation of the bacterial wall). In turn, the transpeptidase activity inhibits the stability of the bacterial cell wall, resulting in the death of growing bacterial cells.
What is Cefprozil?
Cefprozil is taken for the following infections caused by bacteria susceptible to cephalosporin: urinary infections, infections of the lower respiratory tract (including bronchitis and uncomplicated pneumonia), infections of the upper respiratory tract (including pharyngitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis and otitis media); as well as skin infections.
How should Cefprozil be taken?
Cefprozil is taken orally in the form of tablets and powder for oral suspension.
Side effects associated with Cefprozil
The basic treatment with Cefprozil is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects that have been reported more frequently in children than in adults include the following:
- Gastrointestinal disorders: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain ;
- Kidney function abnormalities: mild elevations of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine values;
- Liver function abnormalities: elevated serum transaminases (SGOT, SGPT); increased bilirubin, and increased alkaline phosphatase;
- Hematologic abnormalities: temporary leukopenia and eosinophilia;
- Central nervous system disorders: dizziness, hyperactivity, headache, irritability, insomnia, confusion, drowsiness;
- Hypersensitivity reactions: erythema , urticaria ;
- Dermatological disorders: diaper rash and infection, genital itching.
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Cefprozil
Generally, given the lack of sufficient studies on its safety profile on the fetus, the use of Cefprozil during pregnancy is contraindicated. In case of urgency or real need, it may be given under strict medical supervision. Since its effect on breast-feeding infants is not known, caution is advised when administering Cefprozil to nursing mothers.
Particular attention should be paid when administering this drug in combination with aminoglycoside antibiotics. In fact, the simultaneous use of cephalosporins and aminoglycoside may result in nephrotoxicity. During the administration of this drug, it is advised to monitor the kidney and liver function.
