cefzil

Cefzil (cefprozil) is a cephalosporin (SEF a low spor in) antibiotic. It works by fighting bacteria in your body.

Cefzil is used to treat many different types of infections caused by bacteria.

Cefzil may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information

You should not use Cefzil if you are allergic to any cephalosporin antibiotic (cefdinir, cefprozil, cefuroxime, cephalexin, and others).

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Cefzil if you are allergic to cefprozil or to other cephalosporin antibiotics, such as:

• cefaclor (Raniclor);

• cefadroxil (Duricef);

• cefazolin (Ancef);

• cefdinir (Omnicef);

• cefditoren (Spectracef);

• cefpodoxime (Vantin);

• ceftibuten (Cedax);

• cefuroxime (Ceftin);

• cephalexin (Keflex); or

• cephradine (Velosef).

To make sure Cefzil is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• kidney disease;

• a history of intestinal problems, such as colitis; or

• if you are allergic to penicillin or other medicines.

FDA pregnancy category B. Cefzil is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)

Cefprozil can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

The Cefzil suspension (liquid) may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this form of cefprozil if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

How should I take Cefzil?

Take Cefzil exactly as it was prescribed for you. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Do not share Cefzil with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

This medicine can cause unusual results with certain lab tests for glucose (sugar) in the urine. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Cefzil.

Use Cefzil for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics. Cefzil will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

Store Cefzil tablets at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Store the oral liquid in the refrigerator. Do not allow it to freeze. Throw away any unused medication that is older than 14 days.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Cefzil?

Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody, stop taking Cefzil and call your doctor. Do not use anti-diarrhea medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Cefzil side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Cefzil: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• diarrhea that is watery or bloody;

• sudden weakness or ill feeling, cold or flu symptoms, mouth sores, red or swollen gums, pain when swallowing;

• pale or yellowed skin, dark colored urine, confusion or weakness;

• unusual bleeding;

• bruising, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness;

• seizure (convulsions); or

• severe skin reaction--fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.

Common Cefzil side effects may include:

• mild diarrhea;

• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain; or

• vaginal itching or discharge.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: Side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect Cefzil?

Other drugs may interact with cefprozil, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.