Drug Uses

Cephalexin is used for the treatment of bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, the middle ear, tonsils, the larynx, bronchitis, pneumonia, the bones, the skin, and the reproductive and urinary systems.

How it is taken

Cephalexin can be taken by mouth with or without food. However, the best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

The normal dosage for adults is 1 to 4 gms divided throughout the day where as children are treated with much smaller doses.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic that works by preventing the formation of the cell wall of the bacteria. This causes the cell wall to rupture thereby killing the bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, E. coli and several other bacteria are susceptible to Cephalexin.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Cephalexin, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.
 

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, allergic reaction to a cephalosporin antibiotic (such as Ceclor, Keflex, Ceftin, Duricef) or a penicillin antibiotic (such as amoxicillin or ampicillin), a severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, or dizziness.

Cephalexin may cause drowsiness. These effects get aggravated if you take it with alcohol or certain other medications (sleep aids, muscle relaxers). So, do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using and contact your doctor immediately.

It is unknown whether is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Some patients develop stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools while using Cephalexin. Contact your doctor promptly if this occurs rather than treating it with over the counter medication.

Cephalexin has a tendency to interfere with certain lab tests including (urine glucose). So ensure that the lab personnel know that you are taking this drug.

Periodic lab tests may be recommended to monitor your health while taking the drug. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests.

It has been noted that elder patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.
 

Some of the common side effects of are abdominal/stomach pain, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, unusual tiredness. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), increased heartbeat, lightheadedness and fainting.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.