Cephradine

Cephradine is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic medicine available in Bangladesh under many brand names. Below are its uses, dosage, side effects and precautions — and all brands with their current prices.

• Throat and tonsil infections
• Skin and soft-tissue infections (e.g. cellulitis, abscesses)
• Urinary tract infections
• Respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis
• Ear infections
• Prevention of infection around some surgical procedures

The dose of Cephradine depends on the infection. A common adult dose is 250-500 mg every 6 hours, or 500 mg to 1 g every 12 hours, for about 7 days. Cephradine can be taken with or without food, but taking it with a little food can reduce stomach upset.

Children's doses are based on body weight and must be set by a doctor — never guess. Space the doses evenly through the day, finish the entire prescribed course, and if you miss a dose take it when you remember unless the next one is almost due.

Cephradine is generally well tolerated. Possible side effects include:

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Skin rash or itching
• Oral or vaginal thrush with longer courses

Rarely it can cause serious allergic reactions or severe, persistent diarrhoea from a bowel infection. Stop Cephradine and seek urgent medical help if you experience swelling of the face or throat, breathing difficulty, a widespread rash, or bloody diarrhoea.

Cephradine is a prescription-only antibiotic — never self-medicate. Because cephradine is so easily available and widely used in Bangladesh, it is often taken without proper advice; take it only when a registered doctor prescribes it, and never share it or buy it over the counter. Always complete the full course, even after you feel better, or the strongest bacteria survive and return.

Tell your doctor about any penicillin or cephalosporin allergy and any kidney disease. Antibiotic resistance is a serious national crisis in Bangladesh, and the casual, incomplete use of common antibiotics like Cephradine is one of its biggest drivers.

Tell your doctor about all medicines you take. Notable interactions with Cephradine include:

• Probenecid — raises cephradine levels in the blood
• Strong diuretics (e.g. furosemide) — may add to kidney strain
• Warfarin — bleeding risk may increase
• It can interfere with some urine glucose tests in people with diabetes

Do not take Cephradine if you:

• Are allergic to cephradine or other cephalosporin antibiotics
• Have had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin

Use with caution and tell your doctor if you have kidney disease or a history of bowel disease (colitis). Your doctor will decide whether Cephradine is the right choice for your infection.

Cephradine may be used in pregnancy when the doctor judges it necessary, as cephalosporins are generally regarded as among the safer antibiotic choices. Always tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.

Only small amounts pass into breast milk and it is usually considered compatible with breastfeeding, though the baby may occasionally develop loose stools or thrush. Mention breastfeeding to your doctor before starting Cephradine.

Store Cephradine in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from sunlight and moisture, in its original packaging. Reconstituted suspension for children should be used within the time stated on the label, often within a few days. Keep all forms out of the reach of children and do not use after the expiry date.