Seemacheph
Generic Name
Cephalexin
Manufacturer
Hypothetical Pharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
seemacheph 500 mg capsule | ৳ 12.40 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Seemacheph 500 mg Capsule is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria and is effective against susceptible organisms causing respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and middle ear infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
The usual adult dose is 250 mg to 1 g every 6 hours, depending on the severity and type of infection. For most infections, 500 mg every 8 hours is common. For severe infections, the dose may be increased up to 1 g every 6 hours (4 g/day).
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is necessary for elderly patients with normal renal function. However, renal function should be monitored, and dosage adjusted if impairment is present.
Renal_impairment
For patients with severely impaired renal function, the dose should be reduced. For creatinine clearance <10 mL/min, 250 mg every 12 hours. For creatinine clearance 10-50 mL/min, 250 mg every 8-12 hours.
How to Take
Take the capsule orally with a glass of water, with or without food. It is recommended to take the medicine at evenly spaced intervals to maintain a consistent level in your body. Do not chew or crush the capsule.
Mechanism of Action
Cephalexin (the active ingredient) is a bactericidal antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to one or more of the penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), thereby preventing the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis in the bacterial cell wall. This leads to cell lysis and bacterial death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour of administration.
Excretion
Mainly excreted unchanged by the kidneys via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Approximately 70-80% of the dose is excreted in the urine within 6 hours.
Half life
Approximately 0.5 to 1.2 hours in individuals with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1 hour after oral administration.
Metabolism
Not significantly metabolized.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any beta-lactam antibiotic (e.g., penicillins).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Increased anticoagulant effect, potentially leading to bleeding.
Metformin
Increased plasma concentrations of Metformin, requiring dose adjustment.
Probenecid
Reduces renal excretion of cephalexin, leading to higher and more prolonged plasma concentrations.
Oral Contraceptives
Possible reduction in efficacy of oral contraceptives (rare).
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, and diarrhea. In severe cases, hematuria may occur. Management is primarily supportive. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis may be helpful in severe overdose.
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 in breast milk, so caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother. Consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any beta-lactam antibiotic (e.g., penicillins).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Increased anticoagulant effect, potentially leading to bleeding.
Metformin
Increased plasma concentrations of Metformin, requiring dose adjustment.
Probenecid
Reduces renal excretion of cephalexin, leading to higher and more prolonged plasma concentrations.
Oral Contraceptives
Possible reduction in efficacy of oral contraceptives (rare).
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, and diarrhea. In severe cases, hematuria may occur. Management is primarily supportive. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis may be helpful in severe overdose.
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 in breast milk, so caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother. Consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Cephalexin, as a well-established antibiotic, has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety across various bacterial infections since its introduction. Subsequent post-marketing surveillance continues to affirm its therapeutic profile.
Lab Monitoring
- Periodic monitoring of renal function is recommended during prolonged therapy, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
- Complete blood counts (CBC) may be monitored during prolonged therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Assess patient's allergy history carefully, especially for beta-lactam antibiotics.
- Adjust dosage in patients with renal impairment.
- Educate patients on the importance of completing the full course to prevent resistance.
- Consider culture and sensitivity testing for persistent or severe infections.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence and development of antibiotic resistance.
- Take the medicine at evenly spaced intervals as prescribed by your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about any history of allergies, especially to penicillin or other antibiotics.
- Report any persistent or severe 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
Seemacheph is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or other side effects that affect your concentration, avoid these activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent further infections.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during antibiotic treatment as it may worsen side effects.
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