Ceframed
Generic Name
Cefalexin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| ceframed 500 mg capsule | ৳ 12.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ceframed 500 mg capsule contains Cefalexin, a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections including respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and otitis media.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usual adult dose is 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 hours (total 1-2 g/day), or 500 mg to 1 g every 12 hours (total 1-2 g/day). For severe infections, the dose may be increased up to 4 g/day in divided doses.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment for elderly patients with normal renal function. Dose adjustment required for renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Dosage should be adjusted based on creatinine clearance. For creatinine clearance 10-50 mL/min, 250 mg every 8-12 hours; for <10 mL/min, 250 mg every 12-24 hours. A supplementary dose may be needed after dialysis.
How to Take
Take the capsule orally with a glass of water, with or without food. It is recommended to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by the doctor, even if symptoms improve.
Mechanism of Action
Cefalexin is a bactericidal antibiotic that acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, which prevents the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains, leading to cell lysis and bacterial death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour (onset of action related to plasma concentration)
Excretion
Excreted rapidly by the kidneys via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Approximately 75-100% of an administered dose is excreted unchanged in the urine within 8 hours.
Half life
Approximately 0.5 to 1.2 hours in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapidly and well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, even in the presence of food. Peak plasma concentrations are usually reached within 1 hour after oral administration.
Metabolism
Not significantly metabolized; about 10-15% undergoes some metabolism.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cefalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis) to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Cephalosporins may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. INR monitoring recommended.
Metformin
Cefalexin may increase metformin plasma concentrations, possibly by inhibiting its renal excretion.
Probenecid
May increase cefalexin plasma concentrations and prolong its half-life by reducing renal excretion.
Oral Contraceptives
May rarely reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives; advise additional contraceptive methods.
Storage
Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be given. Hemodialysis may be useful in accelerating the removal of cefalexin from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Category B. Cefalexin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, but should be used only if clearly needed. Lactation: Cefalexin is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but caution is advised.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cefalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis) to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Cephalosporins may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. INR monitoring recommended.
Metformin
Cefalexin may increase metformin plasma concentrations, possibly by inhibiting its renal excretion.
Probenecid
May increase cefalexin plasma concentrations and prolong its half-life by reducing renal excretion.
Oral Contraceptives
May rarely reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives; advise additional contraceptive methods.
Storage
Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be given. Hemodialysis may be useful in accelerating the removal of cefalexin from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Category B. Cefalexin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, but should be used only if clearly needed. Lactation: Cefalexin is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but caution is advised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, specific to manufacturer's guidelines.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Cefalexin has undergone extensive clinical trials establishing its efficacy and safety for various bacterial infections since its introduction. Ongoing surveillance studies confirm its continued utility.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (e.g., creatinine clearance) in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
- Complete blood count (CBC) during prolonged therapy.
- Liver function tests (LFTs) if abnormalities are suspected.
Doctor Notes
- Always inquire about penicillin allergy history before prescribing.
- Consider renal function and adjust dosage accordingly, especially in elderly patients.
- Emphasize completion of the full antibiotic course to prevent resistance.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the entire course of medication as prescribed, even if you feel better.
- Do not share your medication with others.
- Inform your doctor about any history of allergies, especially to penicillin.
- Report any severe or persistent side effects to your doctor immediately.
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 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 side effects such as dizziness or headache occur, avoid these activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment, as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects.
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