Duricef 500 mg Capsules

Brand name

The drug is known in pharmaceutical practice under the trade name Duricef. This designation is officially registered and is used to identify the drug in pharmacies, medical institutions and among health professionals. The name became popular due to its use in the therapy of infectious diseases that require a reliable antibacterial effect. It was chosen by manufacturers to emphasize the belonging of the drug to a certain group of antibiotics and to distinguish it among analogues, emphasizing its effectiveness and availability.

International Nonproprietary Name (INN)

The international nonproprietary name of this medicine is cefadroxil. This term is approved by the international community and is used to designate the active substance that provides the therapeutic effect. Cefadroxil belongs to the class of first-generation cephalosporins, known for their activity against a number of bacterial pathogens. The name is standardized by the World Health Organization, which allows to unify the approach to prescribing and production of the drug in different countries and regions, regardless of brand names.

Form of release

The drug is available in several forms, which makes it convenient for use depending on the age of the patient and the specifics of treatment. The main options include:

• Tablets with dosages of 500 mg and 1000 mg of the active substance, intended for oral administration by adults and older children
• Capsules with 500 mg dosage, providing an alternative for patients who prefer this form.
• Powder for preparation of oral suspension with a concentration of 125 mg/5 ml, 250 mg/5 ml or 500 mg/5 ml after dilution, often used in pediatrics.

Each form is designed with specific use in mind: tablets and capsules are suitable for treatment in outpatient settings, while suspension is convenient for children or patients who have difficulty swallowing solid dosage forms. The choice of form depends on the doctor's recommendations and the nature of the infectious process.

Composition

The main active substance is cefadroxil, an antibiotic from the group of cephalosporins of the first generation, which has a bactericidal effect. Auxiliary components depend on the form of release. In tablets, the following are used:

• Microcrystalline cellulose - an excipient that provides uniform distribution of the active substance and stability of the structure.
• Corn starch - a binder that contributes to the formation of a compact mass.
• Magnesium stearate - a lubricating agent that facilitates the pressing process.
• Sodium croscarmellose - disintegrant that accelerates the disintegration of the tablet in the stomach.
• Film shell (e.g., of hypromellose and titanium dioxide) - for protection and ease of swallowing.

In capsules, lactose monohydrate and gelatin are added for the shell. The suspension contains sucrose to improve taste, flavorings (e.g., orange), xanthan gum as a thickener, and preservatives for stability. The composition is balanced to ensure efficacy and preservation of the active ingredient.

Pharmacologic Properties

Pharmacodynamics

The drug has a bactericidal effect, affecting the process of formation of the cell wall of bacteria. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins, disrupting the synthesis of peptidoglycan - a key component of the structure of microorganisms. This leads to weakening of the cell wall and subsequent lysis of bacteria under the action of osmotic pressure. Activity is directed primarily against Gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus (including penicillinase-producing strains), Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes, as well as some Gram-negative pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Proteus mirabilis.

The mechanism of action provides rapid killing of sensitive microorganisms, which is especially important in acute infections. The drug demonstrates moderate resistance to beta-lactamases produced by some strains, which makes it more effective than penicillins in certain cases. The effect occurs within a few hours after reaching the therapeutic concentration, allowing early control of the infectious process.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

After oral administration, the active substance is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, predominantly in the small intestine due to the large surface area and favorable pH environment. The maximum concentration in plasma is reached in 1.5-2 hours. Bioavailability is about 90-95%, which makes the oral form highly effective. Food intake slightly slows down absorption, but does not affect the total absorption, which allows taking the drug independently of meals.

Distribution

The component is well distributed in the body, penetrating the skin, lungs, bones, urinary tract and soft tissues. Binding to plasma proteins is relatively low - about 20-25%, which contributes to the free distribution of the active ingredient to the foci of infection. Concentrations in urine are well above the minimum suppressive concentration for most sensitive pathogens, which makes the drug particularly useful in urinary tract infections.

Metabolism

Metabolism is minimal: more than 90% of the dose taken remains unchanged. A small portion undergoes metabolic transformation in the liver to form inactive derivatives, which reduces the burden on this organ compared to other antibiotics.

Excretion

It is excreted predominantly through the kidneys by tubular filtration and tubule secretion (about 95% unchanged). The elimination half-life is 1-1.5 hours in patients with normal renal function, but may increase in patients with impaired excretion. High concentrations in urine persist for 12-24 hours after administration, providing prolonged effect.

Indications for Use

The drug is prescribed for the treatment of infections caused by sensitive microorganisms:

• Infections of the upper respiratory tract: pharyngitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis.
• Infections of the lower respiratory tract: bronchitis, pneumonia.
• Infections of the urinary tract: cystitis, urethritis, pyelonephritis.
• Infections of the skin and soft tissues: impetigo, furunculosis, cellulitis.
• Bone infections: osteomyelitis (as part of combination therapy).

The drug is often used in infections caused by staphylococci or streptococci, especially in cases of allergy to penicillins. Administration requires confirmation of the sensitivity of the pathogen to ensure the effectiveness of therapy.

Contraindications

The use is prohibited in:

• Hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or penicillins.
• Severe allergic reactions to beta-lactam antibiotics in the anamnesis.
• Severe renal insufficiency without dose adjustment.

Cautious use in ulcerative colitis, blood clotting disorders or allergic diathesis.

Method of Administration and Dosage

How to take

Tablets or capsules are taken orally, drinking enough water (150-200 ml), regardless of meals, although taking with food may reduce gastric irritation. The suspension is prepared by adding water to the mark on the bottle, shaken before each use. Patients are advised to avoid lying down immediately after administration to prevent esophageal irritation.

Dosages for adults and children

Dosage is determined by the type of infection and age:

• Adults: 1-2 g/day divided into 1-2 doses, course 7-10 days.
• Children over 6 years of age: 25-50 mg/kg/day, divided into 2 doses, maximum 2 g/day.
• Children under 6 years of age: suspension at a dose of 25-50 mg/kg/day, divided into 2 doses.

Dose adjustment for certain conditions

In renal insufficiency:

• Creatinine clearance 10-50 ml/min: 500 mg every 12 hours.
• Clearance less than 10 mL/min: 500 mg every 24 hours.

Hepatic insufficiency does not require correction if renal function is normal.

Side Effects

Adverse reactions may include:

• Gastrointestinal: nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, candidiasis.
• Allergic: rash, pruritus, rarely - anaphylaxis.
• Hematologic: eosinophilia, leukopenia.
• Nervous: headache, weakness.

In case of serious manifestations, discontinue use and consult a physician.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose

Exceeding the dose is manifested by nausea, vomiting, convulsions, confusion.

First aid measures

In overdose:

• Stop taking it.
• Rinse the stomach (within 1-2 hours).
• Provide hydration and symptomatic support.
• Seek medical attention.

Drug Interactions

Influence on the effects of other drugs

The medication may:

• Amplify the effect of anticoagulants (warfarin).
• Decrease the effectiveness of probenecid (slows excretion).

Compatibility with alcohol and food

Alcohol does not affect directly, but may worsen the condition in infection. Food has no significant effect on absorption.

Special Precautions

Use in pregnancy and breastfeeding

The use in pregnancy is allowed under strict indications (category B). Penetrates into milk, lactation is suspended.

Effects on driving and operating machinery

Faintness or dizziness may affect the ability to drive machinery.

Particulars of use in the elderly and children

The elderly require monitoring of renal function. In children the drug is safe taking into account the dosage by weight.