Cefaclor vs Amoxicillin: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve been prescribed an antibiotic and saw the names cefaclor or amoxicillin, you might wonder which one is right for you. Both are penicillin‑type drugs, but they work a bit differently and are used for different infections. Below we break down the basics so you can understand what each medicine does, how it’s taken, and what to watch out for.

When Doctors Choose Each Drug

Cefaclor belongs to the second‑generation cephalosporin family. Doctors often pick it for ear infections, sinus infections, throat infections, and some skin infections. It’s good against bacteria that sometimes resist amoxicillin, especially in people who have taken antibiotics before.

Amoxicillin is a classic penicillin. It’s the go‑to for many common infections like strep throat, mild pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and certain childhood ear infections. Because it’s been around a long time, many bacteria are still sensitive to it.

Typical Doses and How to Take Them

Both drugs come as tablets, capsules, or liquid. For adults, cefaclor is usually taken 250 mg to 500 mg every 8 hours, depending on the infection. Amoxicillin for adults often comes in 500 mg doses taken every 8 hours, or 875 mg every 12 hours for tougher bugs.

Kids get weight‑based dosing. Cefaclor is typically 20‑40 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, split into three doses. Amoxicillin is usually 25‑45 mg per kilogram per day, also split into three doses. Always follow the exact schedule your doctor gives—missing doses can let the infection come back.

Both medicines are best taken with a full glass of water. Cefaclor can be taken with or without food, while amoxicillin is often recommended on an empty stomach for faster absorption, unless it upsets your stomach.

Side Effects to Expect

Common side effects for both include nausea, mild diarrhea, and a temporary rash. Cefaclor sometimes causes a more noticeable stomach upset, while amoxicillin can lead to a yeast infection in women or a mild taste change.

If you develop a severe rash, swelling of the face, or trouble breathing, stop the drug right away and get medical help—these could be signs of an allergic reaction. Both drugs can also cause a temporary change in blood clotting numbers, but that’s rare.

Because both are antibiotics, they can disrupt the good bacteria in your gut. Eating probiotic foods or taking a probiotic supplement after finishing the course can help keep your digestion smooth.

Choosing the Right One

Doctors look at a few key factors: the type of infection, local resistance patterns, any allergies you have, and whether you’re pregnant or nursing. If you’re allergic to penicillin, cefaclor might be the safer pick, though cross‑reactions can happen.

Pregnant women usually get amoxicillin because it has a long safety record in pregnancy. Cefaclor is also considered safe, but doctors often stick with amoxicillin when it works.

In summary, both cefaclor and amoxicillin are useful antibiotics, but they target slightly different bacteria and have different dosing rules. Knowing the basics can help you follow your prescription correctly and recognize when something isn’t right.

Always finish the full course, even if you feel better, and talk to your doctor if you notice side effects that don’t go away. With the right info, you can take either drug confidently and get back to feeling good faster.