[Double-blind comparison of cefadroxil and cephalexin granules in the treatment of impetigo]

Abstract

A double-blind clinical comparison of cefadroxil granules (CDX) and a long-acting preparation of cephalexin granules (L-CEX) was conducted in the treatment of impetigo in children. The long-acting cephalexin preparation was composed of 3 parts of granules soluble in the stomach and 7 parts of those soluble in the intestine. Drugs were administered at 3 different doses depending on the body weight of patients (Group I: less than 10 kg, Group II: between 10 kg and 20 kg, Group III: over 20 kg). Overall clinical evaluation by attending doctors: CDX group scored slightly better but not statistically significant results. Evaluation of usefulness: CDX group scored slightly better but not statistically significant results. Partially standardized evaluation: CDX scored statistically significantly higher points in the evaluation of total cases and Group II on Day 5, and Group II on Day 7. Cumulative points through Day 5 and Day 7 were not statistically significant. Follow-up evaluation by attending doctors: CDX group got a better result in total cases and Group II on day 3, and in total cases on days 5 and 7. Otherwise there was no statistically significant difference. Incidence of side effects was not significantly different between the 2 drug groups. As shown in Fig. 1, CDX was administered on rising in the morning, after lunch, and at bed time whereas L-CEX was given on rising and at bed time when the patients were relatively in fasting condition. This may have reduced the expected merit of L-CEX and some reserve is required in the interpretations of the results shown herein.