Cefalex
Generic Name
Cephalexin 125 mg Suspension
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| cefalex 125 mg suspension | ৳ 81.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Cefalex 125 mg Suspension is an antibiotic from the first-generation cephalosporin group, used to treat various bacterial infections. It works by preventing the growth of bacteria.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Adults: 250-500 mg every 6 hours; for children, dosage is weight-dependent. For severe infections, the dose may be increased up to 1 g every 6 hours. Usually, children over 1 year receive 125-250 mg every 6 hours.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is usually required for elderly patients with normal renal function. Monitor renal function.
Renal_impairment
Dosage reduction is necessary in patients with significant renal impairment. Consult a physician for specific dosing based on creatinine clearance.
How to Take
Take orally, with or without food. For children, it can be mixed with milk, formula, or food. Shake the suspension well before each use. Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.
Mechanism of Action
Cefalexin is a bactericidal antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to bacterial cell lysis and death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Approximately 1 hour
Excretion
Primarily via the kidneys (glomerular filtration and tubular secretion); approximately 80% or more of the dose is excreted unchanged in the urine within 8 hours.
Half life
0.5 to 1.2 hours (increased in renal impairment)
Absorption
Rapidly and well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; absorption is about 75-100%. Peak plasma concentrations occur about 1 hour after administration.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; mainly excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cephalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reaction to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Close INR monitoring is recommended.
Metformin
Cephalexin may increase plasma concentrations of metformin, requiring metformin dose adjustment.
Probenecid
Concomitant administration with probenecid may increase and prolong the plasma concentration of cephalexin.
Aminoglycosides
Increased risk of nephrotoxicity when co-administered with aminoglycosides.
Storage
Store dry powder below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Store reconstituted suspension in the refrigerator (2-8°C). Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. Treatment is primarily supportive. Gastric lavage may be considered if recent ingestion. Hemodialysis can aid in removal of cephalexin from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cephalexin is excreted in small amounts into breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cephalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reaction to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Close INR monitoring is recommended.
Metformin
Cephalexin may increase plasma concentrations of metformin, requiring metformin dose adjustment.
Probenecid
Concomitant administration with probenecid may increase and prolong the plasma concentration of cephalexin.
Aminoglycosides
Increased risk of nephrotoxicity when co-administered with aminoglycosides.
Storage
Store dry powder below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Store reconstituted suspension in the refrigerator (2-8°C). Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. Treatment is primarily supportive. Gastric lavage may be considered if recent ingestion. Hemodialysis can aid in removal of cephalexin from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cephalexin is excreted in small amounts into breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Unopened dry powder: 2-3 years. Reconstituted suspension: 7-14 days (refrigerated).
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved worldwide
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Cephalexin has undergone extensive clinical trials since its introduction, establishing its efficacy and safety for various bacterial infections. It is a well-established antibiotic with a long history of clinical use.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (e.g., creatinine clearance) in patients with pre-existing impairment or during prolonged therapy.
- Liver function tests (LFTs) occasionally.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with prolonged therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Essential for pediatric use; dosage should be accurately calculated based on the child's weight and the severity of infection.
- Educate patients on the importance of completing the full course to prevent resistance.
- Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity reactions, especially in patients with a history of penicillin allergy.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the entire prescribed course of medication, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence and development of antibiotic resistance.
- Shake the suspension well before each dose.
- Store the reconstituted suspension in the refrigerator and discard any unused portion after the specified period (usually 7-14 days).
Missed Dose Advice
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 dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Generally safe. However, if you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid self-medication; consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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