Cefaclor: What It Is, How It Works, and What Alternatives You Should Know

When you’re fighting a bacterial infection, your doctor might reach for Cefaclor, a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat common infections like ear infections, bronchitis, and skin infections. Also known as a broad-spectrum antibiotic, it works by breaking down the cell walls of bacteria, stopping them from multiplying. Unlike some older antibiotics, Cefaclor covers a wider range of bacteria, including strains that resist penicillin—making it a go-to when simpler drugs don’t cut it.

It’s not just about the drug itself—it’s about what kind of infection you’re dealing with. Cefaclor is often chosen for respiratory tract infections, like sinusitis or pneumonia caused by susceptible bacteria, or for skin and soft tissue infections, including cellulitis and impetigo. But it’s not magic. If your infection is viral, like a cold or flu, Cefaclor won’t help. And if bacteria have built up resistance, your doctor may switch you to something stronger, like Levofloxacin or a different class of antibiotics entirely.

Many people wonder how Cefaclor stacks up against other options. Compared to amoxicillin, it’s often more effective against certain resistant strains. But it’s not always the first choice—doctors might start with cheaper, narrower-spectrum drugs first. If you’ve had side effects from penicillin, Cefaclor can be a safe alternative, since it’s in a different family. Still, it can cause stomach upset, rash, or yeast infections, just like other antibiotics. That’s why knowing your options matters. You’ll find posts here comparing it to other antibiotics like Levofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone used for more serious or stubborn infections, and looking at how dosing, cost, and side effects differ.

What you’ll find below isn’t just a list of articles—it’s a practical guide to real-world decisions. Whether you’re trying to understand why your doctor picked Cefaclor over another drug, or you’re looking for safer, cheaper, or more effective alternatives, the posts here break it down without jargon. You’ll see real comparisons, side effect breakdowns, and what to watch for when taking it. No fluff. Just clear, honest info to help you ask the right questions and make smarter choices about your treatment.