Cephalexin is an antibiotic of the cephalosporin family. It works by fighting bacteria in your body.
Cephalexin Uses
It is used to treat;
- Genital and urinary tract infections
- Bone infections,
- Ear infections,
- Infections of the skin and skin structure,
- Respiratory infections,
- Pharyngitis,
- Mastitis,
- And bladder infections.
Cephalexin Mechanism Of Action
Cephalexin, such as penicillin, is a beta-lactam antibiotic. By binding to specific binding proteins, penicillin (PBP) located in the bacterial cell wall inhibits the third and final phase of the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. Lysa cells are then mediated by autolytic bacterial cell wall enzymes such as autolysins; it is possible that cefalexin interferes with the autolysin inhibitor.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of cephalexin oral capsule include:
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Irritation or inflammation of the stomach lining
- Stomach ache
- Serious side effects and their symptoms may include the following:
- Allergic reactions Symptoms may include:
- Urticaria
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
Dosage of cephalexin
The dose for adults is 1 to 4 grams in divided doses. The normal adult dose is 250 mg every 6 hours. Some infections can be treated with 500 mg every 12 hours. Children are treated with 25-100 mg / kg / day in divided doses. The dosage interval can be every 6 or 12 hours depending on the type and severity of the infection.
Cephalexin and pregnancy
Cephalexin should only be used if clearly necessary during pregnancy and with caution during lactation.
Before Taking Cephalexin
- Do not take this medicine if you have an allergic reaction to cefalexin, other cephalosporins, or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet.or if you have had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin.
- Do not take this medicine if you are intolerant or allergic to lactose. These capsules contain lactose.
- Do not take this medicine after the expiry date (EXP) printed on the pack.
- Do not take this medicine if the package is out of stock, shows signs of irregularity or does not seem exactly right.
- If you are not sure whether to start taking this medicine, contact your doctor or pharmacist.