The Basics
What is Cefaclor?
Used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as pneumonia and other lower respiratory tract (lung) infections; and infections of the skin, ears, throat, tonsils, and urinary tract.
Brand names for Cefaclor
Cefaclor Oral Suspension
How Cefaclor is classified
Anti-Infective Agents, Antibacterial Agents, Cephalosporins
Cefaclor During Pregnancy
Cefaclor pregnancy category
Category BNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Cefaclor while pregnant
Reproduction studies have been performed in mice and rats at doses up to 12 times the human dose and in ferrets given 3 times the maximum human dose and have revealed no harm to the fetus due to cefaclor. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Taking Cefaclor While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Cefaclor?
Limited information indicates that maternal cefaclor produces low levels in milk which are not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. Occasionally disruption of the infant’s gastrointestinal flora, resulting in diarrhea or thrush have been reported with cephalosporins, but these effects have not been adequately evaluated. Cefaclor is acceptable in nursing mothers.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Limited information indicates that maternal cefaclor produces low levels in milk which are not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. Occasionally disruption of the infant’s gastrointestinal flora, resulting in diarrhea or thrush have been reported with cephalosporins, but these effects have not been adequately evaluated. Cefaclor is acceptable in nursing mothers.
Possible effects of Cefaclor on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Cefaclor
None listed
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Takase Z, Shirafuji H, Uchida M. Clinical and laboratory studies of cefaclor in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Chemotherapy (Tokyo). 1979;27(Suppl 7):666-72.
2. Ito S, Blajchman A, Stephenson M et al. Prospective follow-up of adverse reactions in breast-fed infants exposed to maternal medication. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1993;168:1393-9. PMID: 8498418
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
