Cephalexin: Effective Bacterial Infection Treatment
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Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic prescribed to combat a wide spectrum of bacterial infections. It operates by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to the eradication of susceptible pathogens. This medication is commonly utilized for respiratory, skin, soft tissue, bone, and urinary tract infections, offering a reliable option for both clinicians and patients seeking effective microbial control.
Features
- Belongs to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics
- Available in capsule, tablet, and oral suspension forms
- Demonstrates bactericidal activity against Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria
- Typically dosed two to four times daily, depending on infection severity
- Requires prescription; not available over-the-counter
Benefits
- Rapid onset of action, often providing symptom relief within 48 hours
- High efficacy in treating common community-acquired infections
- Well-established safety profile with extensive clinical use history
- Flexible dosing forms suitable for both adults and pediatric patients
- Lower risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea compared to broader-spectrum antibiotics
- Cost-effective generic availability improves accessibility
Common use
Cephalexin is indicated for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms, including:
- Respiratory tract infections such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and bronchitis
- Skin and skin structure infections including cellulitis, impetigo, and wound infections
- Bone and joint infections, particularly those caused by Staphylococcus aureus
- Genitourinary tract infections including acute prostatitis and cystitis
- Otitis media (middle ear infections) in pediatric populations
- Dental infections involving susceptible organisms
Dosage and direction
Dosage must be individualized based on the infection’s severity, pathogen susceptibility, and patient’s renal function. The usual adult dose ranges from 250 mg to 1000 mg every 6 hours. For most infections, the standard dose is 250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours. More severe infections may require 500 mg every 6 hours or 1 g every 12 hours. Pediatric dosing is typically 25-100 mg/kg/day divided into four doses, not to exceed 4 g daily. The oral suspension should be shaken well before each administration. Complete the full course of therapy even if symptoms improve to prevent antibiotic resistance.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis
- Renal function should be assessed before and during prolonged therapy
- May result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms; monitor for superinfection
- False positive reactions for glucose in the urine may occur with Benedict’s or Fehling’s solutions
- Prolonged use may result in fungal or bacterial superinfection, including oral thrush or vaginal candidiasis
- Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed (Pregnancy Category B)
- Excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administering to nursing women
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or any component of the formulation
- Patients with known anaphylactic reactions to penicillins or other beta-lactam antibiotics
- Cross-sensitivity between penicillins and cephalosporins occurs in approximately 10% of penicillin-allergic patients
- Not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment without dosage adjustment
- Should not be used for the treatment of viral infections including the common cold or influenza
Possible side effect
Common adverse reactions (≥1%) include:
- Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea (up to 10%), nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dyspepsia
- Dermatological: Rash, urticaria, pruritus
- Genitourinary: Genital pruritus, vaginitis, vaginal discharge
- Hepatic: Transient elevations in hepatic enzymes
- Hematological: Eosinophilia, neutropenia
Less common but serious side effects (<1%) include:
- Pseudomembranous colitis
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
- Toxic epidermal necrolysis
- Interstitial nephritis
- Hemolytic anemia
- Anaphylaxis
Drug interaction
- Probenecid: May decrease cephalexin elimination, increasing serum concentrations
- Metformin: Cephalexin may increase metformin concentrations
- Oral contraceptives: May reduce efficacy of oral contraceptives; additional contraceptive methods recommended
- Warfarin: May potentiate anticoagulant effect; monitor INR closely
- Other nephrotoxic drugs (aminoglycosides, polymyxins): Increased risk of nephrotoxicity
- Urine glucose tests: May cause false-positive results with certain testing methods
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining consistent antibiotic levels is crucial for effective treatment, so patients should strive for regular dosing intervals.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. In cases of significant overdose, serum levels of cephalexin can be reduced by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Management should include supportive measures and symptomatic treatment. There is no specific antidote for cephalexin overdose. Contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately if overdose is suspected.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) in a tightly closed container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. The oral suspension should be stored in the refrigerator and discarded after 14 days. Do not freeze. Proper disposal of unused medication is essential to prevent accidental ingestion or environmental contamination.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment. The prescribing physician should be consulted regarding any questions about medical conditions or treatment options. Individual responses to medication may vary.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate cephalexin’s efficacy with success rates exceeding 85% for most indicated infections. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate high tolerability and effectiveness ratings. Many clinicians appreciate its predictable pharmacokinetics and established safety profile. However, emerging resistance patterns require careful consideration of local susceptibility data before prescribing.