Cefalex (Square), Unicef (Acme), Oracef (Beximco)
Generic Name
Cefalin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Acme Laboratories Ltd., Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (among many others)
Country
Bangladesh (and various other countries globally)
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Cefalin, also known as Cefalexin or Cephalexin, is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including those of the respiratory tract, skin, urinary tract, and middle ear. It works by preventing the growth of bacteria.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usual adult dose is 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 to 12 hours. For severe infections, the dose may be increased up to 1 g every 6 hours.
Elderly
Similar to adult dose, but caution is advised in elderly patients with impaired renal function, requiring dose adjustment.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with impaired renal function. For creatinine clearance 10-50 mL/min: 500 mg every 12 hours; for <10 mL/min: 250 mg every 12 hours.
How to Take
Cefalexin can be taken orally with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce gastrointestinal upset.
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 excreted by the kidneys via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Approximately 70-90% of the administered dose is excreted unchanged in the urine within 8 hours.
Half life
0.5 to 1.2 hours in individuals with normal renal function, prolonged in renal impairment.
Absorption
Rapidly and well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (about 90% orally bioavailable). Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1 to 2 hours.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; mainly excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of serious hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Metformin
May increase plasma concentrations of metformin. Co-administration should be monitored.
Probenecid
Concomitant use with probenecid may increase and prolong plasma concentrations of cefalexin.
Aminoglycosides
Potential for increased nephrotoxicity when co-administered, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
Oral Anticoagulants
May enhance the anticoagulant effect; INR monitoring may be necessary.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), away from moisture and direct light. Keep out of reach of children. Reconstituted suspension should be stored in a refrigerator.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. Management involves gastric lavage, supportive care, and ensuring adequate hydration. Hemodialysis may be useful in severe cases.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus. However, it should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Lactation: Cefalexin is excreted in small amounts in human milk. Caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of serious hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Metformin
May increase plasma concentrations of metformin. Co-administration should be monitored.
Probenecid
Concomitant use with probenecid may increase and prolong plasma concentrations of cefalexin.
Aminoglycosides
Potential for increased nephrotoxicity when co-administered, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
Oral Anticoagulants
May enhance the anticoagulant effect; INR monitoring may be necessary.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), away from moisture and direct light. Keep out of reach of children. Reconstituted suspension should be stored in a refrigerator.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. Management involves gastric lavage, supportive care, and ensuring adequate hydration. Hemodialysis may be useful in severe cases.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus. However, it should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Lactation: Cefalexin is excreted in small amounts in human milk. Caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months, depending on the manufacturer and formulation. Reconstituted suspension is typically stable for 7-14 days when refrigerated.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals worldwide.
Approval Status
Widely approved globally by various regulatory bodies including FDA and DGDA.
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Cefalexin has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety for various bacterial infections since its introduction. Ongoing surveillance and post-marketing studies continue to monitor its performance.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (e.g., serum creatinine, BUN) should be monitored in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or during prolonged therapy.
- Complete blood count (CBC) for prolonged therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Consider patient's history of hypersensitivity to penicillin before prescribing.
- Adjust dosage in patients with renal impairment.
- Advise patients on the importance of completing the full course of antibiotics to prevent resistance.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not share this medication with others.
- Contact your doctor if you experience severe diarrhea, rash, or any other unusual or severe side effects.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Cefalexin generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness, caution should be exercised.
Lifestyle Advice
- Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol if it causes gastrointestinal upset.
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent further infections.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.