Study on the efficacy of cefaclor for the treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria and lower urinary tract infections in pregnant women with a history of hypersensitivity to penicillin

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety profile of twice daily versus the conventional three daily intake of cefaclor administrated orally for five to seven days in the treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria or acute cystitis in pregnant women with a history of hypersensitivity to penicillin. METHODS: Between August 2003 and August 2004, 63 pregnant women with a positive urine culture and a history of suspicion of hypersensitivity to penicillin were randomly divided into two groups. The women in the first group received 500 mg of cefaclor while those in the second group received 750 mg of cefaclor for five to seven days. Laboratory and clinical results were assessed a week and a month after complettion of the therapy. RESULTS: Final therapy (bacteriologic eradication) succeeded in 93.7% (30/32) of the first group and in 90.3% (28/31) of the second group. CONCLUSION: Dosage of cefaclor at 750 mg is as effective as conventional cefaclor at 500 mg and better tolerated.