Licef

Licef Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Licef is a brand name. Its generic name is Cefadroxil.

Introduction

Licef is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic sold under the brand names Cefa-Drops and Duricef. It is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, such as skin infections, urinary tract infections, and respiratory tract infections.

Uses

Licef is used to treat certain bacterial infections, including those of the skin, urinary tract, throat, and chest. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

Mechanism of Action

Licef works by preventing bacteria from forming the cell walls that surround them. This stops the bacteria from growing and multiplying, which eventually kills the bacteria. It is unusual among antibiotics in that it works primarily by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Licef usually starts to work within a few hours after being taken. However, it may take a few days for the medication to reach full effect.

Absorption

Licef is well-absorbed after oral administration. Peak concentrations of cefadroxil in the blood are reached in two to four hours.

Route of Elimination

Licef is eliminated primarily by the kidneys. About 70% of an oral dose is excreted unchanged in the urine.

Dosage & Administration

The recommended adult dosage of Licef is 1 to 2 g once daily taken orally. For children, the dosage ranges from 10 mg/kg/day to 50 mg/kg/day, depending on the type of infection and the age of the patient.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Licef include headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other side effects include allergic reactions, rashes, and joint pain.

Toxicity

The effects of Licef overdose are not well known. High doses may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and rash.

Precautions

Before taking Licef, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have any existing medical conditions, such as heart or kidney disease.

Interactions

Licef may interact with some other medications such as probenecid, aminoglycosides, and antacids-containing magnesium or aluminum. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting therapy with Licef.

Disease Interactions

Licef should not be taken by patients with kidney disease or by patients who are allergic to penicillins or other cephalosporins.

Drug Interactions

Licef may interact with certain other medications, such as antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, aminoglycosides, or probenecid. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting therapy with Licef.

Food Interactions

Licef should be taken with food to decrease the risk of stomach upset. Avoid taking it with dairy products, such as milk or yogurt.

Pregnancy Use

Licef should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before taking this medication.

Lactation Use

It is not known whether Licef passes into breast milk. Therefore, it should be used with caution in breastfeeding women.

Acute Overdose

The effects of an acute overdose of Licef are not known. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.

Contraindication

Licef is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to cephalosporins or any of its ingredients.

Use Direction

Licef should be taken exactly as directed by your doctor. It is usually taken one or two times a day, with or without food.

Storage Condition

Store Licef tablets and capsules at room temperature, away from light and moisture.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution for Licef is 0.2 to 0.3 L/kg.

Half Life

The average half-life of Licef is 2 to 4 hours.

Clearance

The average clearance of Licef is 0.14 to 0.24 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Licef

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Licef

What is Licef?

Licef is an antibiotic medication used to treat bacterial infections. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called cephalosporins.

What type of infections does Licef treat?

Licef is used to treat certain types of bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and throat and tonsil infections.

How long does it take for Licef to start working?

It usually begins to work within 48 hours, although you may not notice any improvement in your symptoms for up to 4 days. It is important to take the medication for the entire duration prescribed by your doctor.

How should Licef be taken?

Licef should be taken with food or milk. You should swallow the entire tablet or capsule without crushing or chewing. It is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking cefadroxil.

Is Licef safe to take during pregnancy?

Licef is considered safe to take during pregnancy. However, you should always consult with your doctor before taking any prescription medication while pregnant.

What possible side effects could occur with taking Licef?

Some common side effects of cefadroxil include nausea, headache, and diarrhea. More serious side effects such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), fever, joint pain, or difficulty breathing should be reported to your doctor immediately.

What if I forget to take a dose of Licef?

If you forget to take a dose of cefadroxil, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double your dose to make up for the missed one.

Is Licef safe for children to take?

Licef is generally safe for children over the age of 8, although it should only be given to children with a doctor's approval and supervision.

Can Licef be used to treat a sore throat?

Licef is sometimes used to treat strep throat and other throat infections caused by bacteria. However, it should not be used to treat a sore throat caused by a virus.

Is there anything I should avoid while taking Licef?

You should avoid alcohol while taking cefadroxil as it can increase the risk of side effects. You should also avoid taking other antibiotics at the same time as cefadroxil.

Can Licef be used to treat an ear infection?

Licef is sometimes used to treat ear infections caused by bacteria. However, it is important to consult with your doctor first to make sure cefadroxil is the right treatment for you.

What is the usual dosage of Licef?

The usual recommended dosage of cefadroxil depends on the infection being treated. It is important to follow your prescribed dosage as it is determined based on your weight, age, and medical condition.

Does Licef interact with any other medications?

Licef may interact with certain antibiotics, antacids, probenecid, and certain antifungal medications. Make sure to tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking before taking cefadroxil.

Is Licef available in generic form?

Yes, cefadroxil is available as a generic medication.

Can Licef be taken with other medications?

Yes, cefadroxil can be taken with other medications. However, it is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking to make sure there are no interactions or contraindications.

What if I overdose on Licef?

If you suspect an overdose on cefadroxil, immediately seek medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

What form does Licef come in?

Licef is available as a tablet, capsule, or liquid solution.

How long does it take for Licef to leave your system?

It usually takes around 1-2 days for cefadroxil to be completely cleared from your system.

What if I get an allergic reaction to Licef?

If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. If possible, stop taking cefadroxil and contact your doctor.

Is Licef safe to take while breastfeeding?

Licef is considered safe to take while breastfeeding. However, you should always talk to your doctor before taking any prescription medications while breastfeeding.

Are there any special precautions I should take while taking Licef?

It is important to take cefadroxil exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Licef should be taken with food or milk, and you should drink plenty of water while taking it. You should also avoid taking other antibiotics at the same time.

Can Licef be used to treat a bladder infection?

Yes, cefadroxil can be used to treat bladder infections caused by bacteria.

Can Licef be used to treat a skin infection?

Yes, cefadroxil can be used to treat skin infections caused by bacteria, such as cellulitis.

What is the most common side effect of taking Licef?

The most common side effect of taking cefadroxil is nausea. Other common side effects include headache, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Can I take Licef with ibuprofen?

Yes, cefadroxil can be taken with ibuprofen. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any type of pain reliever while taking cefadroxil.

What if I experience upset stomach while taking Licef?

If you experience upset stomach while taking cefadroxil, taking it with food or milk can help reduce the side effects. If the symptoms persist, you should contact your doctor.

Can Licef be used to treat a sinus infection?

Licef is sometimes used to treat sinus infections caused by bacteria. However, it is important to talk to your doctor first to get the correct diagnosis and treatment.

Does Licef cause drowsiness?

Licef can cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate machinery while taking cefadroxil if you feel drowsy.

Can Licef be used to treat a bacterial infection in the lungs?

Yes, cefadroxil can be used to treat bacterial infections in the lungs.

Does Licef have any drug interactions?

Yes, cefadroxil can interact with certain medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking before taking cefadroxil.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Licef?

If you miss a dose of cefadroxil, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double your dose to make up for the missed one.

Can Licef be used to treat a tooth infection?

Yes, cefadroxil can be used to treat certain types of tooth infections caused by bacteria.

What if I experience severe stomach pain while taking Licef?

If you experience severe stomach pain while taking cefadroxil, contact your doctor immediately. Severe stomach pain could be a sign of an allergic reaction or other side effect.

Can Licef be used to treat a kidney infection?

Yes, cefadroxil can be used to treat certain types of kidney infections caused by bacteria.

What should I do if I experience any side effects while taking Licef?

If you experience any side effects while taking cefadroxil, contact your doctor immediately. Do not stop taking cefadroxil unless instructed by your doctor.

Can Licef be used to treat a UTI?

Yes, cefadroxil can be used to treat certain types of urinary tract infections caused by bacteria.

Can Licef be used to treat a yeast infection?

No, cefadroxil is not used to treat yeast infections. This type of infection should be treated with an antifungal medication.

Will Licef affect my birth control?

There are no known interactions between cefadroxil and birth control. However, it is important to tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking before taking cefadroxil.

Can Licef be used to treat a viral infection?

No, cefadroxil is an antibiotic and should not be used to treat viral infections.

Does Licef interact with any foods?

No, there are no known interactions between cefadroxil and food.

Does Licef interact with other antibiotics?

Yes, cefadroxil can interact with other antibiotics and should not be taken at the same time. Make sure to tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

How long should I take Licef?

You should take cefadroxil for the entire duration prescribed by your doctor. However, cefadroxil usually begins to work within 48 hours, although you may not notice any improvement in your symptoms for up to 4 days.