Cefalex
Generic Name
Cefalexin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| cefalex 500 mg capsule | ৳ 12.60 | ৳ 126.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Cefalexin 500 mg capsule is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including those of the respiratory tract, skin and soft tissue, urinary tract, and bone.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
250 mg to 1 g every 6 hours, depending on the severity of infection. Common adult dose for moderate infections is 500 mg every 8-12 hours.
Elderly
Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on renal function.
Renal_impairment
Reduced dosage is required. For creatinine clearance 10-50 mL/min, 250 mg every 8-12 hours. For creatinine clearance <10 mL/min, 250 mg every 12-24 hours.
How to Take
Oral administration. Can be taken with or without food. For best absorption, it is often recommended to take with food if gastrointestinal upset occurs.
Mechanism of Action
Cefalexin is a bactericidal antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to cell lysis and death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Peak plasma concentrations reached within 1 hour.
Excretion
Primarily via renal excretion (glomerular filtration and tubular secretion).
Half life
Approximately 0.5-1.2 hours (normal renal function).
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; food may delay absorption but total amount absorbed remains unchanged.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; primarily excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cefalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics
- History of severe hypersensitivity reaction to penicillin (due to potential cross-reactivity)
Drug Interactions
Metformin
Cefalexin may increase metformin levels, monitor blood glucose.
Probenecid
May decrease renal excretion of cefalexin, leading to increased plasma levels and prolonged action.
Oral anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May enhance anticoagulant effect; monitor INR.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. Management is supportive and symptomatic, possibly gastric lavage, activated charcoal, or hemodialysis in severe cases.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe during pregnancy. Excreted in breast milk in small amounts; generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but monitor infant for potential adverse effects (e.g., diarrhea, candidiasis).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cefalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics
- History of severe hypersensitivity reaction to penicillin (due to potential cross-reactivity)
Drug Interactions
Metformin
Cefalexin may increase metformin levels, monitor blood glucose.
Probenecid
May decrease renal excretion of cefalexin, leading to increased plasma levels and prolonged action.
Oral anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May enhance anticoagulant effect; monitor INR.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. Management is supportive and symptomatic, possibly gastric lavage, activated charcoal, or hemodialysis in severe cases.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe during pregnancy. Excreted in breast milk in small amounts; generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but monitor infant for potential adverse effects (e.g., diarrhea, candidiasis).
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available (off-patent)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied and established for efficacy and safety in various bacterial infections since its introduction.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (for prolonged therapy or renal impairment)
- Complete blood count (for prolonged therapy)
- Liver function tests (rarely, if hepatotoxicity suspected)
Doctor Notes
- Confirm bacterial susceptibility before initiation, if possible.
- Advise patients on importance of completing full course.
- Monitor for signs of C. difficile infection if severe diarrhea occurs.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the full course of antibiotic as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not share this medicine with others.
- Inform your doctor if you experience severe diarrhea or allergic reactions.
Missed Dose Advice
Take the missed dose 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.
Driving Precautions
Cefalexin generally does not impair ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if dizziness occurs, caution is advised.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise advised.
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Global Brand Names
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