This medicine is an antibiotic that is taken by mouth to treat infections of the chest (pneumonia), throat infections (pharyngitis), ear infections (otitis media), and urinary tract infections caused by certain bacteria. It is not effective for viral infections such as colds or the flu.

Proper Use

Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. Take it for as long as prescribed, even if you begin to feel better. If you stop taking the medicine too soon, the infection and its symptoms may return.

This medicine works best taken on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. It is usually taken twice a day. The liquid form of the medicine can be kept at room temperature (59 to 86 degrees F). Shake the liquid well before using. The liquid can be used for 14 days if the cap is kept tightly closed. Discard any unused liquid after 14 days because it loses its strength.

Please Note

Be sure to tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine or any other antibiotic or drug (especially penicillin). Contact your doctor or get emergency medical treatment right away if you have a reaction (hives, skin rash, itching, tightness in your chest, trouble breathing) while you are taking this medicine.

You may develop diarrhea while you are taking this medicine or right after you stop. Contact your doctor right away if the diarrhea continues or gets worse.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding an infant.

Possible Side Effects

Serious (report these to your doctor right away): Hives, skin rash, itching, trouble breathing, continuous or severe diarrhea.

Other: Skin rash, nausea, vomiting, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, runny nose, loss of appetite.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Possible Drug Interactions

Probenecid (Benemid) may increase the effects of this medicine. At times your doctor may want this reaction. However, be sure your doctor knows if you are taking probenecid.

Be sure that you tell all doctors who treat you about all medicines you are taking, including nonprescription products.

This educational document includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Other Names For This Medication:

Lorabid (loracarbef, oral); loracarbef, oral