Cefalex
Generic Name
Cefalexin
Manufacturer
Various manufacturers globally (e.g., Eli Lilly, Square Pharmaceuticals in Bangladesh)
Country
Globally manufactured
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| cefalex 500 mg capsule | ৳ 12.60 | ৳ 126.00 |
| cefalex 125 mg suspension | ৳ 81.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Cefalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, otitis media, skin and soft tissue infections, bone and joint infections, and urinary tract infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 hours (four times daily), or 500 mg every 12 hours (twice daily), up to 4 g/day for severe infections.
Elderly
Dosage adjustment may be necessary in elderly patients with reduced renal function; closely monitor renal parameters.
Renal_impairment
Dosage must be adjusted based on creatinine clearance (CrCl). For CrCl 10-50 mL/min: 500 mg every 8-12 hours; for CrCl <10 mL/min: 250 mg every 12 hours.
How to Take
Cefalexin can be taken orally with or without food. To minimize gastrointestinal upset, it can be taken with food. It should be taken as directed by the physician, usually every 6 or 12 hours.
Mechanism of Action
Cefalexin is a bactericidal antibiotic that acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located in the bacterial cell wall, which prevents the cross-linking of peptidoglycan polymers, leading to cell lysis and bacterial death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Approximately 1 hour to reach peak plasma concentrations.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in urine by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.
Half life
Approximately 1-1.2 hours in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapid and complete oral absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, not significantly affected by food.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; less than 10% is metabolized.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cefalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis, severe skin reactions) to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring close monitoring of INR (International Normalized Ratio).
Metformin
May increase metformin plasma concentrations, potentially leading to increased adverse effects. Metformin dose adjustment may be needed.
Probenecid
May decrease renal excretion of cefalexin, leading to increased and prolonged plasma levels of cefalexin.
Storage
Store at room temperature (below 30°C), protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Reconstituted suspension should be stored in a refrigerator (2-8°C) and used within 7-14 days, discard any unused portion after this time.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. Management involves supportive care and gastric lavage if ingested recently. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis may be helpful in severe cases.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Cefalexin is excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution during lactation, observing for potential effects on the infant's gut flora.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cefalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis, severe skin reactions) to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring close monitoring of INR (International Normalized Ratio).
Metformin
May increase metformin plasma concentrations, potentially leading to increased adverse effects. Metformin dose adjustment may be needed.
Probenecid
May decrease renal excretion of cefalexin, leading to increased and prolonged plasma levels of cefalexin.
Storage
Store at room temperature (below 30°C), protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Reconstituted suspension should be stored in a refrigerator (2-8°C) and used within 7-14 days, discard any unused portion after this time.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. Management involves supportive care and gastric lavage if ingested recently. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis may be helpful in severe cases.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Cefalexin is excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution during lactation, observing for potential effects on the infant's gut flora.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months from manufacturing date for capsules/tablets. Reconstituted suspension is stable for 7-14 days when refrigerated.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities worldwide
Patent Status
Off-patent (generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Cefalexin has undergone extensive clinical trials since its introduction in the late 1960s, establishing its efficacy and safety profile for various bacterial infections. Ongoing post-marketing surveillance continues to monitor its long-term safety and emerging resistance patterns.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver and renal function tests (especially in prolonged therapy or in patients with pre-existing impairment)
- Complete blood count (CBC)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on the importance of completing the full course of therapy to prevent antibiotic resistance.
- Be aware of potential cross-reactivity in patients with a history of penicillin allergy, although severe reactions are less common with first-generation cephalosporins.
- Monitor renal function in elderly or renally impaired patients, and adjust dosage accordingly.
- For suspected C. difficile-associated diarrhea, discontinue cefalexin and initiate appropriate treatment.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not skip doses or stop treatment early, as this can lead to antibiotic resistance and recurrence of infection.
- Do not share this medication with others, and do not use it for conditions not prescribed.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Cefalexin is generally not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness, headache, or confusion, avoid such activities until you feel well.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Ensure adequate rest to support your body's recovery from infection.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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