Cefprozil is an antibiotic medication available by prescription for treating a variety of bacterial infections. Though the drug is considered to be generally well tolerated, there are potential side effects. Generally, the most commonly reported cefprozil side effects include diarrhea, stomach cramping, nausea or vomiting. These common side effects are usually mild and dissipate after the body becomes adjusted to the medication. Other, more serious cefprozil side effects are uncommon, but possible.
Cefprozil is marketed under the brand name Cefzil® and is in the drug class cephalosporin antibiotics. Some people may be allergic to cephalosporin drugs. Cefprozil side effects that may indicate an allergic reaction include hives, itching, rash, difficulty breathing or wheezing. These side effects, along with any others that are alarming or bothersome, should be reported to the prescribing physician immediately. The common side effects of nausea and upset stomach may be lessened by taking cefprozil with food, though it can be taken safely without.
Common conditions for which cefprozil may be prescribed include strep throat, ear infection and bronchitis. There are also other types of infections and other medical conditions that a doctor may treat with cefprozil. The medication is available in both tablet and liquid suspension for oral administration and may be prescribed to be taken once or twice per day, usually for ten days. Doses may be 250 mg or 500 mg in tablet form. They are As with all antibiotics, cefprozil’s effectiveness depends on taking the medicine as prescribed and finishing all of it.
There are some known drug interactions that may occur with cefprozil, which is why it is essential to communicate all medication use to the prescribing doctor. In addition to telling the doctor about other prescription medications, patients should also inform their doctor of vitamins or supplements they may be taking. If the prescribing physician is not familiar with the patient’s past or current medical history, they should also be informed if the patient has diabetes, kidney or liver disease, is pregnant or might be pregnant, or is breastfeeding.
With the exception of rare but serious cefprozil side effects, the risks of taking the medication as prescribed are generally minimal and far outweigh the risks of leaving a bacterial infection untreated. Though a wide variety of bacteria are responsive to cefprozil, some strains may be resistant. If symptoms of an infection being treated with cefprozil do not improve, worsen or seem to go away and then reappear, consult a physician. Questions or concerns about cefprozil side effects and use should be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.