Cephalosporins for urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Examples

Generic Name	Brand Name
cefaclor	Ceclor
cefadroxil	Duricef
cefixime	Suprax
cefuroxime axetil	Ceftin
cephalexin	Keflex

How It Works

Cephalosporins are antibiotics that kill bacteria that commonly cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). You can take cephalosporins by mouth (orally) or by injection.

Why It Is Used

Your doctor may prescribe cephalosporin to treat an infection of your bladder or kidneys that is not caused by an obstruction or structural problem or some other medical condition that affects urinary function, such as diabetes. Cephalosporin also treats urinary tract infections that have complications, such as pregnancy, a high temperature [greater than 38°C (101°F)], or ongoing nausea, vomiting, and chills.

Cephalosporins also treat UTIs in children.

How Well It Works

Cephalosporins effectively treat most UTIs. A person taking a cephalosporin for a UTI can expect relief from the symptoms.

Side Effects

Common side effects of cephalosporins include:

• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Sore mouth or tongue.
• Skin rash.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

People who are allergic to penicillins may also be sensitive to cephalosporins.

Antibiotic resistance

Be sure to take all of the medication your doctor gives you, even if you are feeling better. If you do not take all of your antibiotics as prescribed, the infection may return. Not taking the full course of antibiotics also encourages the development of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. This not only makes antibiotics less effective but also makes bacterial infections more difficult to treat.

Antibiotic resistance among bacteria that cause UTIs has increased steadily in recent decades. You and your doctor may have to try different antibiotics, and different combinations of antibiotics, to find the right medication that will kill the bacteria causing your UTI. Before you start a new antibiotic, your doctor may use results of urine tests to help select a medication.

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Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW Carrie Henley	Last Updated: July 26, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine Philip Belitsky, MD, FRCSC - Urology
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