Common Use

Cephalexin is an antibiotic belonging to the cephalosporin group, which works by preventing the formation of bacterial cell walls. It is resistant to penicillinases produced by gram-positive bacteria but can be destroyed by beta-lactamases from gram-negative bacteria. Cephalexin has a broad spectrum of activity, effective against gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Clostridium, Actinomyces israelii, and Bacillus anthracis, as well as gram-negative bacteria like Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Proteus mirabilis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Neisseria meningitidis, Shigella, and Salmonella. Common infections treated with Cephalexin include middle ear infections, tonsillitis, throat infections, laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, and urinary tract, skin, and bone infections.

Dosage and Directions

The typical dosage of Cephalexin for adults ranges from 1 to 4 grams daily, divided into multiple doses. The interval between doses may vary between 6 to 12 hours, depending on the type and severity of the infection.

Precautions

Before taking Cephalexin, inform your doctor if you have a history of drug allergies (especially to penicillins), kidney or liver disease, stomach or intestinal disorders like colitis, or diabetes.

Contraindications

Cephalexin should not be used by individuals with hypersensitivity to cephalosporins (such as Ceclor, Duricef, Omnicef, Spectracef, Suprax, Cefzil, Fortaz, Ceftin) or beta-lactamase antibiotics. Caution is advised for patients with kidney disorders, pseudomembranous colitis, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and infants younger than 6 months.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects may include allergic reactions (hives, rash, swelling of the face or tongue), fever, sore throat, headache, seizures, and severe skin reactions like blistering or peeling. Other serious side effects include pale or yellowed skin, dark urine, hallucinations, confusion, weakness, easy bruising or bleeding, and decreased or absent urination. If these symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially live vaccines and probenecid. Cephalexin may reduce the effectiveness of combination contraceptive pills and can cause false positive results in certain diabetic urine tests. It may also increase the effects of indirect anticoagulants, phenylbutazone, and furosemide. Salicylates and indomethacin can slow the excretion of Cephalexin, while medications that reduce renal tubule secretion can increase its blood concentration and delay excretion.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Overdose

Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, and blood in the urine. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Storage

Store Cephalexin at room temperature (59-77°F or 15-25°C) in a dry place, away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not use it after the expiration date.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is intended for general knowledge and does not cover all possible uses, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for specific medical advice. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from the use of this information or from self-treatment.