Ceclor MR

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Ceclor MR

Ceclor MR is a specialized, prescription-only medication that provides a systemic anti-infective treatment. This section defines the drug's core identity, pharmacological classification, and unique pharmaceutical form.

Property Description
Active Ingredient Cefaclor (as the monohydrate)
Form Extended-release tablet (Modified Release)
Pharmacological Class Second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
Common Use Addressing bacterial infections
Origin Semisynthetic compound

Defining Ceclor MR: Type, Class, and Origin

Ceclor MR is fundamentally a semisynthetic beta-lactam antibiotic. Its active compound, Cefaclor, places it in the second-generation cephalosporin class, a grouping clinically recognized for its efficacy against a range of susceptible pathogens. This classification confirms the drug's intended role as an anti-infective agent used to eliminate underlying bacterial infections throughout the body. Cefaclor is manufactured through laboratory modification of a natural core structure, which defines it as a semisynthetic antibiotic.


What Does “MR” Mean in Ceclor MR?

The suffix MR in the designation stands for Modified Release or Extended Release, which describes the unique tablet dosage form designed for oral administration. This specialized form is a key distinguishing feature from standard immediate-release Cefaclor. The extended-release tablet contains an engineered matrix that controls the rate at which the Cefaclor is dissolved and absorbed. This mechanism ensures consistent therapeutic drug levels in the bloodstream, as modified-release formulations simplify dosing regimens and potentially allow less frequent administration.


How Cefaclor Works at a High Level

The mechanism of Cefaclor involves a potent bactericidal action, meaning the drug actively targets and destroys susceptible bacterial organisms. The core principle of its effect is the inhibition of bacterial cell-wall synthesis. This action directly compromises the bacteria's ability to maintain its protective structural integrity. By preventing this crucial construction, the medication effectively clears the source of infection, fulfilling its general anti-infective purpose.

Regulatory References

  1. CEFACLOR capsule - DailyMed

What side effects are possible with Ceclor MR?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile of Ceclor MR (cefaclor) is organized by regulatory authorities based on the frequency and the physiological systems affected. Adverse reactions are classified according to incidence observed in clinical use, typically grouped as Common, Uncommon, or Rare events.

Adverse Reaction Classification

The most Common adverse reactions documented in official prescribing information often involve the Gastrointestinal Disorders system, including effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and headache. Uncommon effects may include dizziness, pruritus, or transient elevations in certain laboratory parameters like liver enzymes (AST/ALT) or eosinophils.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Systemic Impact

Official regulatory documents identify several serious adverse reactions, which are classified as Rare events. These include profound reactions impacting the Immune System like Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) and Serum Sickness-like Reactions, which have been reported more frequently in children. Adverse effects on the Blood and Lymphatic System may involve severe reductions in blood cell types, such as Agranulocytosis or Aplastic Anemia. Additionally, Pseudomembranous Colitis (severe diarrhea) is a serious Gastrointestinal event noted to potentially occur during or even up to two months after treatment.

Contextual Safety Considerations

The use of Ceclor MR is formally contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to cefaclor or to other medicines within the cephalosporin class. Specific caution is noted in patients with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis, and in patients with renal impairment. Some safety effects are related to the timing of exposure; for instance, Serum Sickness-like Reactions are often reported following a second or subsequent course of therapy. There is also a documented safety note regarding the potential for increased prothrombin time when the drug is used concomitantly with anticoagulants.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory profile for Cefaclor overdose is defined by expected physical manifestations and mandated emergency actions. All suspected cases of overdose require immediate medical attention.


Documented Manifestations and Risks

Documented overdose presentations most commonly include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, and diarrhea. The severity of the epigastric distress and diarrhea is noted by regulatory authorities as being dose-related.

As a class-related consideration, a risk for severe outcomes, particularly seizures, is noted for patients with renal impairment where drug accumulation may occur.


Official Emergency Response

Contact emergency services immediately or call a Poison Control Center if the individual has collapsed, had a seizure, is experiencing trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened. These are recognized potential life-threatening outcomes requiring urgent intervention.

Management is primarily focused on symptomatic and supportive care. Procedures such as the administration of activated charcoal and gastric emptying are officially described measures to reduce drug absorption. Regulatory texts specify that advanced elimination methods, including hemodialysis and forced diuresis, have not been demonstrated to be beneficial in the management of Cefaclor overdose.

Therapeutic Uses of Ceclor MR

Main Uses and Benefits of Ceclor MR

Ceclor MR (cefaclor) is generally used to address bacterial infections across several key areas of the body. Cefaclor is applied in addressing infections caused by susceptible bacteria and is used for the management of symptoms associated with acute or disruptive episodes. This medication is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes in the upper and lower respiratory tract, the skin and soft tissues, and the urinary tract.

In clinical scenarios where short-term symptomatic assistance is needed, Ceclor MR helps to ease symptoms that create noticeable functional strain. It is relevant for managing symptom clusters like pain, fever, swelling, and tenderness associated with infection.

The treatment supports patients during difficult episodes by easing distress and contributing to improved day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods.

Quick Fact: Scope of Use: Managing Heightened Discomfort

Ceclor MR is relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases when symptoms interfere with routine activities. It is applied during phases of increased distress, such as those caused by painful ear infections (otitis media) or acute bronchitis.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who can and cannot use Ceclor MR — Official Regulatory Information

Scope Regulatory Statement
Populations for whom use is allowed (as stated in label): Patients 16 years of age and older who do not have a contraindication.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated: Individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the cephalosporin group of antibiotics.
Age-related eligibility rules: Safety and efficacy of the extended-release tablet formulation are not established in patients under 16 years of age.
Condition-specific eligibility rules: Use requires caution in patients with markedly impaired renal function or a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status (if explicitly documented): Pregnancy: Use is generally limited to situations where it is clearly needed (FDA Category B).
Lactation: Use is generally not recommended or requires caution, as the drug is excreted in human milk.
Eligibility-related restrictions: Caution is required for patients with a history of penicillin hypersensitivity due to documented cross-allergenicity among beta-lactam antibiotics.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile

Official regulatory documents define who can and cannot use this drug primarily through absolute contraindication for those with known allergies to cephalosporins. The extended-release formulation is officially restricted to individuals 16 years and older because safety and effectiveness have not been established in younger pediatric patients. Furthermore, the label mandates caution for specific physiological states, including impaired kidney function and reproductive status, limiting use to cases where clinical benefit outweighs potential risk.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Ceclor MR's official interaction profile is defined primarily by pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions documented in regulatory labeling.

Interaction Scope

Category Interacting Substance/Condition Official Regulatory Statement
Pharmacokinetic Elimination Probenecid (Antigout agent) Inhibits the renal excretion of Cefaclor, formally resulting in increased and prolonged plasma concentrations of the antibiotic.
Pharmacokinetic Absorption Antacids (Aluminum or Magnesium) Co-administration leads to a diminished extent of absorption of the extended-release tablet.
Timing Separation Rule Antacids (Aluminum or Magnesium) Antacids must not be taken within 1 hour of the administration of Ceclor MR extended-release tablets.
Pharmacodynamic Effect Warfarin and other Coumarins Documented rare reports of increased prothrombin time with or without clinical bleeding, indicating a potential enhancement of the anticoagulant effect.
Efficacy Reduction Live Bacterial Vaccines Antibiotic use may reduce the therapeutic efficacy of certain live bacterial vaccines (e.g., Live Typhoid Vaccine).
Population Factor Impaired Renal Function Clearance is delayed, a pharmacokinetic factor that increases the risk of drug accumulation and systemic exposure in this population.
No Significant Effect H2 Blockers (e.g., Cimetidine) Official studies confirm no alteration to the rate or extent of Cefaclor absorption.

The regulatory documents formally state that one agent increases exposure (Probenecid) while another agent decreases absorption (Antacids), with the latter requiring a mandatory timing constraint for administration. The profile is further defined by a documented pharmacodynamic interaction that poses a risk for enhanced anticoagulant effects when co-administered with Warfarin.

Mechanism of Action

Targeting Penicillin-Binding Proteins (PBPs)

The mechanism of Ceclor MR's active ingredient, cefaclor, is centered on the irreversible inactivation of bacterial enzymes known as penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). These proteins are crucial for catalyzing the final transpeptidation step in the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall's peptidoglycan layer. Cefaclor acts as a covalent inhibitor, binding to the active site of the PBPs and preventing the necessary cross-linking of the peptidoglycan chains.


Inhibiting Bacterial Cell Wall Synthesis

This molecular interaction results in a compromised cell wall structure. The failure to maintain structural rigidity triggers the bacteria's own digestive enzymes, or autolysins, leading to the physical rupture and death of the organism, a process mechanistically classified as bactericidal. This disruption of structural integrity and subsequent cell lysis represents the core physiological mechanism, resulting in the elimination and reduction of the total bacterial biomass.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Ceclor MR

The administration of Ceclor MR (cefaclor extended-release tablets) follows specific parameters defining the use of this oral anti-infective agent. The modified-release formulation requires adherence to defined administration conditions to ensure its intended mechanism of consistent drug release.

Official Administration Protocol

Ceclor MR is for oral administration. The tablets are swallowed whole and must not be cut, crushed, or chewed, as altering the tablet compromises the extended-release properties.

Administration is taken with meals, meaning the tablet is typically used within one hour of eating. This timing is necessary to enhance the absorption of the active ingredient. The frequency is standardized as twice daily, administered approximately every 12 hours.

Labeled Dosage and Treatment Duration

Dosing is determined by the specific condition being addressed, defining both the dose and the total duration of the course:

Condition Adult Dose (Every 12 Hours) Treatment Duration
Acute Bronchitis Exacerbation 500 mg 7 days
Pharyngitis / Tonsillitis 375 mg 10 days
Skin and Skin Structure Infections 375 mg 7 to 10 days

Population-Specific Use

Dosage adjustments are generally not required for older adult patients with normal renal function. The safety and effectiveness of the extended-release tablet formulation have not been established for pediatric patients under 16 years of age. The use of Ceclor MR follows these procedural steps, which structure the entire course of treatment.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Ceclor MR

This overview summarizes the scientific studies and research patterns available for the active ingredient in Ceclor MR (cefaclor) according to official regulatory and scientific sources. The findings describe group patterns observed in research, not personal outcomes or expected results.


Evidence for Use in Respiratory Tract Infections

Studies conducted during periods of heightened symptom activity have examined the active ingredient for its role in addressing acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis and infections of the throat, such as pharyngitis or tonsillitis. The main research design was randomized controlled clinical trials, which compared the active ingredient to other agents or placebo within the study settings.

In these trials, research examined outcomes related to physical discomfort and systemic or functional imbalance. Specifically, studies monitored measurements of clinical success rates, which included patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort and changes in infection signs over time. Research so far indicates that studies monitored patterns of microbiological eradication of the specific bacteria within the standard treatment periods (typically 7 to 10 days).


Evidence for Use in Uncomplicated Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

The evidence base for the active ingredient in uncomplicated skin infections is based on controlled clinical trials. These studies focused on adult patients with conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations where the infection was studied for susceptible bacteria. In this research, studies explored outcomes capturing phases of heightened symptom activity in the skin, such as swelling, redness, and tenderness. Trials reported measurements of clinical response in the short-term following the treatment period (7 to 10 days).

A key limitation is that results apply only to the populations studied, meaning the evidence base focuses primarily on uncomplicated infections. Data for certain groups remain insufficient to draw conclusions about its role in more severe, deep-seated, or complicated infections.


Extended Data and Long-Term Follow-up

Most of the core clinical evaluation research was conducted during periods of increased symptom activity and typically focused on the acute treatment phase. For this reason, follow-up durations were limited, generally extending only for a short time after the final dose of the medicine. The research explores short-term symptom changes but does not extensively monitor what happens over many months or years. Consequently, long-term effects are not fully established regarding the durability of the observed response or the rate of infection recurrence.

Key Studies & References

  1. Pharmacokinetics and safety of the two oral cefaclor formulations in healthy chinese subjects in the fasting and postprandial states
  2. Short- vs. Long-Course Antibiotic Treatment for Acute Streptococcal Pharyngitis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

How should Ceclor MR be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Ceclor MR?

The storage and disposal of Ceclor MR (cefaclor extended-release tablets) are governed by specific regulatory requirements to maintain product stability and ensure safety.


Required Storage Conditions

The tablets must be stored at a temperature not exceeding 25°C and in a cool, dry place. To ensure stability, the medication must be stored in the original package to protect from light and moisture. This medicine must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Official Disposal Rules

Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Unused or expired Ceclor MR should be returned to a pharmacist for disposal. This process ensures compliance with local and national regulations for pharmaceutical waste management.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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