Cefaclor is a second-generation antibiotic used for ear, sinus, and throat infections. Compare it with amoxicillin, cephalexin, and azithromycin to understand which is best for your condition, side effects, and resistance patterns.
Cefaclor Side Effects: What You Need to Know About This Antibiotic
When you take cefaclor, a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections like ear infections, sinusitis, and urinary tract infections. Also known as Cefaclor CD, it works by stopping bacteria from building cell walls, which kills them or keeps them from spreading. But like all antibiotics, it doesn’t just target the bad bugs — it can mess with your gut, skin, and even your mood. You might not think much about side effects when your doctor hands you a prescription, but knowing what’s normal and what’s not can save you from unnecessary panic or worse, a trip to the ER.
Most people tolerate cefaclor just fine, but about 1 in 5 report something uncomfortable. The most common issue? Upset stomach — nausea, diarrhea, or bloating. It’s not unusual. In fact, antibiotics like this often wipe out good bacteria along with the bad, which is why probiotics are often recommended. Some people get a rash, especially if they’ve had allergic reactions to penicillin before. That’s because cephalosporins and penicillins share similar structures. If you’ve ever broken out in hives after amoxicillin, you should be extra careful with cefaclor. More serious reactions — like swelling of the face, trouble breathing, or severe diarrhea with blood — are rare but need immediate attention. These aren’t just side effects; they’re warning signs.
It’s also worth remembering that cefaclor doesn’t work on viruses. Taking it for a cold or flu won’t help — and only increases your risk of side effects without any benefit. If you’ve been on it for a few days and feel worse, or if your symptoms don’t improve after 48 hours, talk to your doctor. Sometimes, the infection just needs a different antibiotic. And if you’ve had side effects with one cephalosporin, you might react to others too. That’s why your doctor needs to know your full history.
What you’ll find in the posts below are real, practical insights from people who’ve been there. Some share how they handled diarrhea with diet changes. Others describe the itching rash they got and how they got it checked out. There are comparisons with other antibiotics like amoxicillin and ciprofloxacin, so you can see how cefaclor side effects stack up. You’ll also see when it’s safe to take with other meds — like birth control or antacids — and what to avoid. No fluff. Just what you need to know to stay safe and feel better.