actaclor 125mg suspension - Cefaclor (125mg) medicine

Articlar 125mg Dry Syrup (Cefaclor): Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Safety

No reviews yet
🏭 Custodian Pharma Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 21, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for indicated bacterial infections.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 21, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or throat
  • Severe or persistent diarrhea, or blood in stool
  • Severe skin rash with blistering or peeling
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • High fever that does not improve after 48 hours of treatment

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is actaclor 125mg suspension used for?

This medicine is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the ear, throat, lungs, urinary tract, and skin. It works by killing bacteria and is available as a dry syrup for oral use.

  • Generic Name: Cefaclor (125mg)
  • Manufacturer: Custodian Pharma Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 actaclor 125mg suspension के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा सेफाक्लोर नामक एंटीबायोटिक है, जिसका उपयोग बैक्टीरियल संक्रमणों जैसे कान, गले, फेफड़ों, मूत्र मार्ग और त्वचा के संक्रमण के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह बैक्टीरिया को मारकर काम करती है और बच्चों के लिए ड्राई सिरप के रूप में उपलब्ध है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में दस्त, जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, पेट दर्द और त्वचा पर चकत्ते शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, गंभीर त्वचा प्रतिक्रियाएं और दस्त शामिल हो सकते हैं। किसी भी गंभीर लक्षण पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी एलर्जी, गुर्दे की बीमारी, पेट की समस्या, गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के बारे में बताएं। दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें, भोजन के साथ या बिना। पूरा कोर्स पूरा करें, चाहे आप बेहतर महसूस करें। खुराक छूट जाने पर याद आते ही लें, लेकिन अगली खुराक के करीब हो तो छोड़ दें। दोहरी खुराक न लें। तैयार सिरप को फ्रिज में रखें और 14 दिन बाद फेंक दें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 actaclor 125mg suspension Uses & Benefits

  • [{"condition":"Otitis media (middle ear infection)","description":"This medicine is effective against common bacteria causing ear infections, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Pharyngitis and tonsillitis","description":"Used to treat streptococcal throat infections when penicillin is not suitable.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Lower respiratory tract infections","description":"Including bronchitis and pneumonia caused by susceptible bacteria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urinary tract infections","description":"Effective against susceptible strains of E.
  • coli, Klebsiella, and Proteus.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Skin and skin structure infections","description":"For uncomplicated skin infections caused by susceptible staphylococci and streptococci.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Dental infections","description":"Sometimes used as an alternative for dental abscesses when first-line antibiotics are not appropriate.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Lyme disease","description":"May be used in early localized Lyme disease, but not a first-line agent.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Bacterial infections

Also treats: Otitis media, Pharyngitis, Tonsillitis, Bronchitis, Pneumonia, Urinary tract infections, Skin infections

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Cefaclor (125mg)
Brand Nameactaclor 125mg suspension
ManufacturerCustodian Pharma Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action ClassCephalosporins: 2nd generation
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore the dry powder at room temperature (15-30°C) in a tightly closed container. After reconstitution, store the syrup in the refrigerator (2-8°C) and discard any unused portion after 14 days. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf LifeThe shelf life of the dry powder is typically 2 years from the date of manufacture. After reconstitution, the syrup should be used within 14 days if stored in the refrigerator.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always complete the full prescribed course of this medicine, even if symptoms improve, to prevent bacterial resistance.
2
Take this medicine with food if it causes stomach upset.
3
Shake the reconstituted dry syrup well before each dose to ensure proper mixing.
4
Use a proper measuring device to ensure accurate dosing, especially for children.
5
Store the reconstituted syrup in the refrigerator and discard after 14 days.
6
Inform your doctor if you develop severe diarrhea or any signs of an allergic reaction.
7
Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Ear pain
This medicine is commonly prescribed for ear infections.
Likely Use
Sore throat
This medicine may be used for bacterial throat infections.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer; it treats the underlying infection.
Not Primary
Cough
This medicine may be used for bacterial bronchitis or pneumonia.
Likely Use
Burning urination
This medicine may be used for urinary tract infections.
Likely Use

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionCefaclor is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The presence of food may delay absorption but does not significantly reduce the extent of absorption. The bioavailability of cefaclor is approximately 50-70% when taken on an empty stomach.
DistributionCefaclor is widely distributed in body tissues and fluids, including the middle ear, sinus, tonsils, and respiratory secretions. It crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Protein binding is approximately 25%.
Protein BindingApproximately 25% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismCefaclor is not significantly metabolized in the body. It is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of cefaclor is approximately 0.6 to 0.9 hours in patients with normal renal function. In patients with renal impairment, the half-life may be prolonged.
ExcretionCefaclor is excreted primarily unchanged in the urine by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. About 60-85% of a dose is excreted in the urine within 8 hours.
BioavailabilityApproximately 50-70% when taken on an empty stomach.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action is typically within 1-2 hours after oral administration, but clinical improvement may take 24-48 hours.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are achieved within 0.5 to 1 hour after oral administration on an empty stomach, and slightly later if taken with food.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is generally 6-8 hours, which supports dosing every 8 hours.

How It Works

Cefaclor is a bactericidal antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), which are enzymes involved in the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains. This inhibition leads to a weakened cell wall and ultimately bacterial cell lysis and death. Cefaclor is active against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, but it is susceptible to hydrolysis by some beta-lactamases.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to penicillin-binding proteins: Cefaclor binds to specific PBPs located in the bacterial cell membrane, which are essential for cell wall synthesis.
2
Inhibition of peptidoglycan cross-linking: By binding to PBPs, cefaclor inhibits the transpeptidation reaction that cross-links peptidoglycan chains, leading to a defective cell wall.
3
Bacterial cell lysis: The weakened cell wall cannot withstand osmotic pressure, causing the bacterium to lyse and die.

💡 How to Take actaclor 125mg suspension

Strength: Dry syrup containing Cefaclor 125mg per 5 mL after reconstitution.

1Reconstitute the dry syrup as directed by your pharmacist. Typically, add the specified amount of water to the bottle and shake well.
2Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure uniform suspension.
3Measure the dose accurately using the measuring spoon or cup provided. Do not use a household spoon.
4Take this medicine with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
5Complete the full course of therapy even if you feel better after a few days.
6Store the reconstituted syrup in the refrigerator and discard after 14 days.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 250 mg every 8 hours for most infections. For more severe infections or those caused by less susceptible organisms, the dose may be increased to 500 mg every 8 hours. The maximum recommended daily dose is 4 grams. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosageThe usual pediatric dose is 20 mg/kg/day divided into three doses for mild to moderate infections. For more severe infections, the dose may be increased to 40 mg/kg/day divided into three doses. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 1 gram. This medicine is not recommended for infants less than 1 month of age. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may have decreased renal function, so dose adjustment may be necessary. The dose should be individualized based on renal function. No specific dose adjustments are recommended solely based on age, but caution is advised.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, dose adjustment is required. For creatinine clearance between 10-50 mL/min, the dose should be reduced to 50-100% of the usual dose. For creatinine clearance less than 10 mL/min, the dose should be reduced to 25-50% of the usual dose. Close monitoring is recommended.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is required for hepatic impairment, as cefaclor is not significantly metabolized by the liver. However, caution is advised in patients with both hepatic and renal impairment.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 4 grams for adults and 1 gram for children.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of actaclor 125mg suspension

✅ Common Side Effects

Diarrhea (Common (1-10%))
Usually self-limiting. Maintain hydration. Consult doctor if severe or persistent.
Nausea (Common (1-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. Consult doctor if it persists.
Vomiting (Common (1-10%))
Take with food and stay hydrated. Seek medical advice if vomiting is severe.
Abdominal pain (Common (1-10%))
Usually temporary. If severe, contact your doctor.
Skin rash (Common (1-10%))
May indicate allergy. Stop the medicine and consult your doctor if rash develops.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Anaphylaxis (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, or severe dizziness.
Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor if you develop severe or persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or fever.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop a severe skin rash with blistering or peeling, or sores in the mouth or eyes.
Serum sickness-like reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Symptoms include rash, fever, joint pain, and swelling. Contact your doctor promptly.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Thrombocytopenia
Report unusual bruising or bleeding to your doctor.
Interstitial nephritis
Seek medical attention if you experience decreased urine output, swelling, or fatigue.
Hepatitis
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Probenecid Moderate
Oral contraceptives Moderate
Loop diuretics Moderate
Antacids Minor
Iron supplements Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Probenecid

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Oral contraceptives
  • Loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol does not directly interact with cefaclor, but it may worsen stomach upset and dizziness. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, especially if you have an infection.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to cefaclor or other cephalosporins","Previous anaphylactic reaction to penicillins (due to cross-reactivity)","Use in patients with a history of severe beta-lactam allergy"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Before starting therapy, inquire about previous hypersensitivity reactions to cephalosporins, penicillins, or other drugs.","Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustment may be needed.","Prolonged use may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi.","If superinfection occurs, appropriate measures should be taken.","Cefaclor may cause a false-positive reaction for glucose in the urine with certain testing methods.","Do not use in patients with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis.","Safety and efficacy in children under 1 month of age have not been established."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Cefaclor is excreted in human breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but monitor the infant for diarrhea, thrush, or rash. Consult your doctor before use.

💊 Overdose Management

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In case of overdose, discontinue the medicine and seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Cefaclor is not significantly removed by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.

⏰ Missed Dose

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

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you are allergic to cefaclor, other cephalosporins, or penicillins. Also, tell your doctor about any kidney disease, stomach or intestinal problems (especially colitis), or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed, with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset. Complete the full course even if you feel better. Do not share this medicine with others. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose. Store the reconstituted syrup in the refrigerator and discard any unused portion after 14 days. Keep out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may have reduced renal function and are more susceptible to antibiotic-associated diarrhea and other side effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Monitor for signs of superinfection and ensure adequate hydration.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Cefaclor is generally considered safe in pregnancy (Category B), but use only if clearly needed. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be prescribed to prevent or treat surgical site infections. Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding dosing and duration. Inform your surgeon if you have any allergies to antibiotics.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine may be used to treat dental infections or as prophylaxis before dental procedures in certain patients. Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine or have any antibiotic allergies.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of infections.
🥗
Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing, to prevent infections.
😴
Stay up to date with vaccinations to prevent bacterial infections.
💧
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support immune function.
🧘
Get adequate sleep to help your body fight infections.
🌞
Avoid close contact with people who have active infections.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue in some people. If you experience these effects, avoid strenuous exercise or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Otherwise, light to moderate exercise is generally safe.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt to help maintain gut health.
Avoid spicy and fatty foods if you experience stomach upset.
Eat small, frequent meals if you have nausea.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some individuals. If affected, avoid driving or operating machinery. Otherwise, you can continue your normal daily activities as tolerated. Take the medicine at evenly spaced intervals as prescribed.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine before completing the full prescribed course, even if you feel better. Stopping early can lead to recurrence of infection and antibiotic resistance. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor before stopping. Your doctor will advise if and when to stop.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is not typically recommended unless for a specific chronic infection under medical supervision. Prolonged use may lead to overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi, and may increase the risk of antibiotic resistance. Regular monitoring of renal and hepatic function may be advised for extended therapy.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Probiotics

Can help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea when taken alongside this medicine.

Evidence: Moderate
Pain relievers

For symptom relief while the antibiotic takes effect.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you are scheduled to receive a live bacterial vaccine (e.g., typhoid vaccine), antibiotics may reduce its effectiveness. Consult your doctor for timing.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store the dry powder at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate the dry powder

✅ DO

After reconstitution, store in the refrigerator (2-8°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not leave reconstituted syrup at room temperature for long periods

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. If traveling with the reconstituted syrup, keep it refrigerated using a cool pack. For air travel, carry it in your hand luggage to avoid temperature extremes. Check customs regulations for carrying antibiotics in your destination country. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually, but maintain the prescribed interval between doses. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific advice.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 5-year-old child with recurrent ear infections
The child was prescribed this medicine for acute otitis media. The parents administered the reconstituted syrup with food three times a day. After 3 days, the child's ear pain and fever subsided. The parents completed the full 10-day course as advised, and the infection resolved completely without recurrence.
💡 Lesson: Completing the full course of antibiotics is crucial to prevent recurrence and resistance, even if the child feels better quickly.
👤 A 35-year-old adult with a urinary tract infection
The patient was prescribed this medicine for a UTI. They experienced mild nausea initially, which was managed by taking the medicine with meals. Symptoms improved within 2 days, but they continued the full 7-day course. A follow-up urine test confirmed the infection was cleared.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food can reduce gastrointestinal side effects, and completing the course ensures the infection is fully eradicated.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling better within 1-2 days, but it may take 3-5 days for significant improvement. Complete the full course as prescribed.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, you can take this medicine with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe for children?

A: Yes, this medicine is commonly prescribed for children. The dose is based on the child's weight and must be determined by a doctor.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine when I feel better?

A: No, you must complete the full prescribed course to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent antibiotic resistance.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for actaclor 125mg suspension

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Antibiotics can cure viral infections like the common cold.
    Fact: This medicine is effective only against bacterial infections. It does not treat viral infections.
  • Myth: You can stop taking antibiotics once you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full prescribed course to prevent bacterial resistance and ensure the infection is fully treated.
  • Myth: Antibiotics weaken the immune system.
    Fact: Antibiotics do not weaken the immune system; they target bacteria. However, they can disrupt normal gut flora, which may have temporary effects.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Cefaclor 125mg/5mL dry syrup (various manufacturers)

Brand Alternatives

  • Articlar 125mg Dry Syrup

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Cefaclor","class":"2nd generation cephalosporin","spectrum":"Broad","dosage_form":"Dry syrup","common_use":"Ear, throat, respiratory, urinary, skin infections"},{"medicine":"Cephalexin","class":"1st generation cephalosporin","spectrum":"Narrow","dosage_form":"Capsule, suspension","common_use":"Skin, throat, urinary infections"},{"medicine":"Amoxicillin-clavulanate","class":"Penicillin + beta-lactamase inhibitor","spectrum":"Broad","dosage_form":"Tablet, suspension","common_use":"Sinusitis, otitis media, respiratory infections"}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory