Cephalor
Generic Name
Cephalexin
Manufacturer
Example Pharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
cephalor 250 mg capsule | ৳ 6.78 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Cephalor 250 mg capsule contains Cephalexin, a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
250 mg to 1 g every 6 hours, depending on the severity of infection. Maximum dose is 4 g/day.
Elderly
Dosage adjustment may be necessary in elderly patients with reduced renal function. Monitor renal function.
Renal_impairment
Dosage reduction is required in patients with significant renal impairment. Refer to specific guidelines based on creatinine clearance.
How to Take
Orally, usually with or without food. Taking with food may help reduce gastrointestinal upset. Complete the full course of therapy as prescribed.
Mechanism of Action
Cephalexin 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
Typically within 1-2 hours after oral administration.
Excretion
Mainly by renal excretion (glomerular filtration and tubular secretion); about 70-80% of the dose is excreted unchanged in urine within 6 hours.
Half life
Approximately 0.5 to 1.2 hours in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, especially on an empty stomach. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 1 hour.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; primarily excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cephalexin or other cephalosporins
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin (cross-reactivity risk)
Drug Interactions
Metformin
Cephalexin may increase metformin plasma concentrations, possibly leading to increased risk of lactic acidosis.
Probenecid
Increases cephalexin plasma concentrations and prolongs its half-life by inhibiting renal tubular secretion.
Oral anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May enhance anticoagulant effect by altering gut flora; 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. Treatment is primarily supportive; activated charcoal may be considered. Hemodialysis may be beneficial 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 side effects (e.g., diarrhea, candidiasis).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cephalexin or other cephalosporins
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to penicillin (cross-reactivity risk)
Drug Interactions
Metformin
Cephalexin may increase metformin plasma concentrations, possibly leading to increased risk of lactic acidosis.
Probenecid
Increases cephalexin plasma concentrations and prolongs its half-life by inhibiting renal tubular secretion.
Oral anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May enhance anticoagulant effect by altering gut flora; 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. Treatment is primarily supportive; activated charcoal may be considered. Hemodialysis may be beneficial 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 side effects (e.g., diarrhea, candidiasis).
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic (off-patent)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical data supporting efficacy and safety, being a well-established antibiotic. Ongoing surveillance for resistance patterns.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (for prolonged therapy or in patients with renal impairment)
- Complete blood count (for prolonged therapy)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize completing the full course to prevent resistance.
- Be mindful of penicillin allergy history due to potential cross-reactivity.
- Adjust dose in renal impairment.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the full course of medicine even if you feel better.
- Do not share your medicine with others.
- Inform your doctor about any allergies or other medications you are taking.
- Report any severe or persistent side effects.
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 continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Generally, cephalexin does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if side effects like dizziness or headache occur, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent recurrence of infections.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment as it may worsen side effects.
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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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