Loracef

Indications:

Loracef is prescribed for treating various infections:

• Respiratory tract infections like pneumonia and bronchitis
• Otitis media and throat infections
• Urinary tract infections including pyelonephritis and cystitis
• Skin and skin structure infections

Pharmacology:

Cefaclor, a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, exhibits stability against β-lactamase enzymes and possesses a broad spectrum of activity. It effectively targets organisms such as Streptococci, Staphylococci, Haemophilus influenzae, and Escherichia coli.

Dosage & Administration:

For adults, the usual dose of Loracef is 250 mg every 8 hours, which can be increased for severe infections. Pediatric dosing is weight-based, with adjustments for serious conditions.

Interactions:

Concurrent use with oral anticoagulants may increase anticoagulant effects. Loracef can also lead to false-positive urine glucose tests.

Contraindications:

Patients allergic to cephalosporins should avoid Loracef.

Side Effects:

Capsule: For adults:

• The usual dose is 250 mg every 8 hours.
• For severe infections or those caused by less susceptible organisms, doses may be doubled, with a maximum dosage of 4 g/day.
• Treatment of β-hemolytic Streptococcal infections should be continued for at least 10 days.

Powder for Suspension & Pediatric Drops: For children:

• The usual daily dosage for pediatric patients over 1 month is 20 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 8 hours.
• In serious infections like otitis media and infections caused by less susceptible organisms, 40 mg/kg/day is recommended, with a maximum dosage of 1 g/day.

Dosage for Specific Age Groups:

• <1 year (9 kg):
  • Powder for suspension: ½ tsp three times daily
  • Pediatric drops: 0.625 ml three times daily
• 1-5 years (9 kg-18 kg):
  • Powder for suspension: 1 tsp three times daily
  • Pediatric drops: 1.25 ml three times daily
• Over 5 years:
  • Powder for suspension: 2 tsp three times daily

Special Populations:

• Renal Impairment:
  • Dose adjustments are generally unnecessary for patients with moderate or severe renal impairment.
• Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis:
  • A predialysis loading dose of 250 mg-1 g is recommended.
  • During the interdialytic period, maintain with 250-500 mg every 6 hours.
• Geriatric Use:
  • Clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between elderly and younger patients, although some older individuals may exhibit greater sensitivity.

Pregnancy & Lactation:

Use of Loracef during pregnancy and lactation should be cautiously considered due to limited data on safety.

Precautions & Warnings:

Prescribe Loracef only for proven bacterial infections to avoid promoting resistant bacteria. Caution is advised in patients with gastrointestinal disorders or a history of allergies.

Storage Conditions:

Store Loracef at room temperature, protect from light, and follow specific reconstitution instructions if applicable.