Cefprozil Dosage: What You Need to Know About Use, Side Effects, and Alternatives

When your doctor prescribes cefprozil, a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections like sinusitis, ear infections, and skin infections. Also known as Cefzil, it works by stopping bacteria from building cell walls, which kills them or stops them from spreading. Getting the cefprozil dosage right matters—too little won’t clear the infection, too much raises your risk of side effects like diarrhea, nausea, or even rare allergic reactions.

For adults, the typical cefprozil dosage, ranges from 250 mg to 500 mg taken every 12 hours, depending on the infection’s severity. Kids get doses based on weight—usually 7.5 to 15 mg per kilogram every 12 hours. It’s usually taken with food to reduce stomach upset, and you should finish the full course even if you feel better. Skipping doses or stopping early can lead to resistant bacteria, which makes future infections harder to treat. Cefprozil is not for viral infections like colds or flu—it only works on bacteria. If you’re allergic to penicillin or other cephalosporins, talk to your doctor first. Cross-reactivity isn’t guaranteed, but it’s common enough to warrant caution.

People with kidney problems often need lower doses because cefprozil is cleared through the kidneys. Your doctor might check your kidney function before prescribing it, especially if you’re over 65 or have a history of renal issues. It also interacts with some medications—like probenecid, which can raise cefprozil levels in your blood—and can affect lab tests for urine glucose, giving false positives. Always tell your doctor about all the meds and supplements you take. While cefprozil is generally safe, watch for signs of a serious reaction: rash, swelling, trouble breathing, or severe diarrhea (which could be C. diff). If you see any of those, stop taking it and call your doctor right away.

You’ll find posts here comparing cefprozil to other antibiotics like cefadroxil and ampicillin, breaking down real-world dosing differences, side effect profiles, and when one might be better than another. There are also guides on how to handle missed doses, what to do if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, and how to spot early signs of antibiotic resistance. Whether you’re a patient trying to understand your prescription or a caregiver helping someone else, this collection gives you the facts without the jargon.