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Cefadroxil

Published: July 26, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

Cefadroxil is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, effectively killing susceptible bacteria.

Quick summary

Cefadroxil is an oral antibiotic for treating bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, skin, and urinary system.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ATC
J01DB05
RxNorm
2177
Generic
Cefadroxil
Class
atc-j01
Brands
—
Availability
rx
Lactation
unknown
Routes
oral
Forms
suspension, tablet, capsule
Regions
US, EU, CN, JP
Monitoring
—

This page is for informational purposes only.

Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

Cefadroxil is used to treat bacterial infections including strep throat, tonsillitis, skin and soft tissue infections, and urinary tract infections. It is effective against gram-positive bacteria such as streptococci and staphylococci.

As a beta-lactam antibiotic, cefadroxil inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). This weakens the bacterial cell wall, causing bacterial death.

Patients with penicillin allergy should use cefadroxil cautiously due to potential cross-reactivity. Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and diarrhea. Complete the full prescribed course to prevent antibiotic resistance.

Official drug label

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy