Cephalexin HCl
Cephalexin
Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic approved by the FDA. It is effective in treating several bacterial infections, including those affecting the bones, respiratory tract, skin, and urinary tract. It works by disrupting bacterial cell walls, leading to their elimination. Available in capsules, tablets, and oral suspension, cephalexin is well-tolerated and can be taken with or without food. It’s typically prescribed for a short treatment duration and is safe for adults and children, making it a versatile choice to fight bacterial infections.
Product Overview
Cephalexin is an antibiotic prescription medicine that belongs to the cephalosporin class and is designed to treat various bacterial infections, such as bone infections, otitis media, respiratory tract infections, and uncomplicated skin and genitourinary infections. Its mechanism involves interfering with the bacteria’s ability to form cell walls, which effectively kills the bacteria. This antibiotic is known for its rapid action, generally showing improvement in symptoms within a few days of initiation.
The medication offers flexible dosing options and is available in several forms including capsules, tablets, and oral suspension, making it suitable for patients of various ages and preferences. The typical dosing schedule is 2-4 times per day, depending on the severity and type of infection. Cephalexin is particularly effective against common bacteria like Streptococcus and Staphylococcus, and is often used as a first-line treatment.
Despite its effectiveness, cephalexin can cause side effects such as upset stomach and diarrhea. It is generally safe for use in both adults and children but requires careful adherence to prescribed dosages to avoid antibiotic resistance. Patients are advised to complete their prescribed course, even if they feel better, to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to prevent the development of resistant bacteria.
What Is Cephalexin Used For?
Cephalexin treats some infections caused by bacteria, including:
- Bone infections
- Otitis media or middle ear infections
- Respiratory tract infections
- Skin infections
- Genitourinary infections
What Are the Benefits of Cephalexin?
- Effectively treats a wide range of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract, skin, bone, and urinary tract infections.
- Belongs to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics, which are generally well-tolerated.
- Can be taken with or without food, offering flexibility in dosing.
- Available in multiple forms including capsules, tablets, and oral suspension.
- Usually produces noticeable improvement in symptoms within a few days.
- Convenient dosing schedule, typically taken 2-4 times per day.
- Particularly effective against many common bacteria like Streptococcus and Staphylococcus.
- Often prescribed as a first-line treatment for many types of infections.
- Generally safe for use in both adults and children.
- Relatively affordable compared to newer antibiotics.
- Has been used successfully for many years with a well-established safety profile.
What Are the Side Effects of Cephalexin?
Common Cephalexin side effects may include:
- Upset Stomach or Indigestion
- Diarrhea
- Stomach Pain
- Nausea & Vomiting
- Stomach Lining Inflammation
[Note: This list is not exhaustive, if you notice any other symptoms that are not mentioned above, consult your doctor immediately.]
What Are the Forms & Strengths of Cephalexin?
Cephalexin comes in these forms and strengths:
- Oral Suspension: 125mg/5mL & 250mg/5mL
- Capsules: 250, 500, and 750 mg, for adult use only
- Tablets: 125 mg (only for pediatric patients), 250, and 500 mg (only for adults)
What Is the Typical Dosage of Cephalexin?
Dosage of Cephalexin for Bone Infections
- Adults: Start with 250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours. May increase to up to 4 g daily in divided doses based on severity.
- Children (15 to 17 Years): Follow adult dosing.
- Children (1 to 14 Years): Typically, 25 to 50 mg/kg daily in divided doses. Can be doubled depending on severity.
Dosage of Cephalexin for Otitis Media (Ear Infections)
- Adults: 250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours, up to 4 g daily in divided doses for severe cases.
- Children (15 to 17 Years): Same as adults.
- Children (1 to 14 Years): Usually 75 to 100 mg/kg daily in divided doses every 6 hours, can be doubled for severe infections.
Dosage of Cephalexin for Respiratory Tract Infections
- Adults: 250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours, up to 4 g daily in divided doses for severe infections.
- Children (15 to 17 Years): Same as adults.
- Children (1 to 14 Years): Generally, 25 to 50 mg/kg daily in divided doses, may double for severe infections.
Dosage of Cephalexin for Skin and Skin Structure Infections
- Adults: 250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours, up to 4 g daily in divided doses depending on severity.
- Children (15 to 17 Years): Same as adults.
- Children (1 to 14 Years): Start with 25 to 50 mg/kg daily in divided doses, may double for severe infections.
Dosage of Cephalexin for Genitourinary Infections
- Adults: Typically 250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours, may increase to up to 4 g daily in divided doses if severe.
- Children (15 to 17 Years): Same as adults.
- Children (1 to 14 Years): Usually 25 to 50 mg/kg daily in divided doses, can be doubled based on severity.
How to Take Cephalexin?
- Carefully read and follow the medication guide. Take the exact amount prescribed to avoid severe reactions.
- Swallow tablets whole with water. Do not chew, crush, break, or split them as this can release the drug too quickly.
- If you can’t swallow tablets, use dissolvable ones. Dissolve in two tablespoons of water, stir until fully dissolved, and drink immediately.
- Shake the bottle well before each use. Measure the dose with the provided cup and drink it right away.
- Finish all the medication, even if you feel better, to prevent antibiotic resistance.
What to Do When You Miss a Dose of Cephalexin?
Take a missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and resume your regular schedule. Use medication apps or set reminders to help remember doses.
[Note: Do not take two doses of Cephalexin at the same time to compensate for a missed dose. This can increase your risk of experiencing side effects.]
What Happens When You Overdose on Cephalexin?
Overdosing can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and blood in urine. Seek immediate medical help if you overdose.
[Note: If you notice you have taken too much medication, call your local emergency number immediately.]
How Does Cephalexin Work?
Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic that kills bacteria by disrupting their cell wall, causing them to burst. It is effective for treating infections like those of the urinary tract, respiratory tract, and skin. Always complete the full course to ensure all bacteria are eliminated and to prevent resistance.
What Are the Important Safety Precautions of Cephalexin?
- Allergic Reactions: Avoid if allergic to beta-lactam antibiotics, as serious reactions may occur.
- Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea: Can cause severe colon inflammation; consult a doctor if you experience diarrhea after taking Cephalexin.
- Kidney Issues: Those with kidney problems should discuss dose adjustments to prevent drug buildup and severe side effects.
- Central Nervous System Toxicity: Dosage adjustments necessary for severe kidney dysfunction.
- Superinfections: Prolonged or repeated use may lead to infections from non-susceptible organisms.
- Penicillin Allergy: Caution advised if allergic to penicillin.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor about risks and safe use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Contraceptive Effectiveness: May reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives; consider alternate contraception methods.
How Do You Store Cephalexin?
- Store at room temperature, 20 to 25°C. Short-term exposure from 15 to 30°C is acceptable.
- Keep in the refrigerator and discard any remaining medicine after 14 days. Do not freeze.
- Keep the medication away from extreme heat, direct sunlight, and moisture.
What Drugs Interact with Cephalexin?
- Methotrexate
- Dofetilide
- Probenecid
- Metformin
- Warfarin
- Cholestyramine
[Note: This list of interactions isn’t complete. Talk to your doctor if you notice any interaction with food, over-the-counter drugs, prescriptions or supplements.]
What Are the Alternatives to Cephalexin?
- Cipro
- Vibramycin
- Sumycin
- Amoxil
- Zithromax
- Levaquin
- Primaxin
- Bactocill
[Note: Your healthcare provider will choose which Cephalexin alternative is best for you. Taking or consuming them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Cephalexin Cost & Coupons
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Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly does Cephalexin work?
Cephalexin starts to work within 1 to 2 hours after taking it, with peak effects typically within the first hour. The effectiveness can vary based on the type and severity of the infection.
What should I avoid while taking Cephalexin?
While on Cephalexin, it’s recommended to avoid alcohol as it can increase stomach upset and other side effects. Also, avoid taking any new medications without consulting your doctor first. Remember, Cephalexin is for bacterial infections, so it won’t help with viral infections like the cold or flu.
Is Cephalexin stronger than amoxicillin?
Both Cephalexin and Amoxicillin are effective antibiotics; however, they belong to different drug classes and their effectiveness can vary depending on the infection. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin, and Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic.
Why not lie down after taking Cephalexin?
Avoid lying down immediately after taking Cephalexin to prevent the medication from lingering in the esophagus, which can cause irritation and discomfort. It’s best to stay upright for at least 30 minutes after taking your dose to ensure the medication moves smoothly to your stomach.
What should you not drink with Cephalexin?
Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages while taking Cephalexin, as these can increase side effects like stomach upset and jitteriness. Dairy products may also interfere with the absorption of the antibiotic.
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