Cephalexin (Cefalexin)
Uses
How it Works
Common Side effects
Some of the potential side effects of Cefalexin can include the symptoms below;
Nausea,
Diarrhoea,
Allergic reaction
Introduction
Cephalexin is a drug that is used for bacterial infections and it belongs to the group of antibiotics. Belonging to the class of cell wall synthesis inhibitors, the drug is highly effective in oral form and can be given for a wide range of gram positive infections. The drug is a good antibiotic for respiratory, ear, skin, and urinary tract infections. It covers a wide range of infections and doesnβt have many side effects therefore it can be used by many patients.
Use
For respiratory tract infections by streptococcus organisms, this drug is given for treatment as antibiotics. It is also used in conditions like otitis media, skin infections, bone infections, infections of the genitourinary tract, and in other infections by organisms, which are susceptible to this particular antibiotic. In such a way, a wide range of infections are treated with this drug therefore the drug is widely prescribed by physicians.
Dosage and administration
Capsules and tablets are given to treat infections in the dose of 250 mg to 500 mg. The duration of the drug given is a week or more, and depends on the disease. Severity of the disease determines the duration for which the drug is administered through oral route. It is usually given 12 hourly or if required, 6 hourly for patients through oral route. In case of diseases affecting the kidney, the drug dosage can be reduced.
Warning
Inform the doctor if have any existing or past allergies to any substances as the medication may have such substances in its composition. In case you experience any allergies or discomfort while using this medication, stop using this medication and consult the doctor immediately.
Clostridium associated diarrhoea may occur in some patients.
In some patients, seizure threshold may be lowered, while few others may suffer from clotting abnormalities.
Such reactions can also occur in patients exposed to the drug for the first time and with proper prescriptions from the doctors, the drug can be given to children and pregnant women.
Side effects
Diarrhoea
Dyspepsia
Nausea
Abdominal pain
Gastritis
Pruritus, and
Few less serious nervous system symptoms
Serious side effects, if they occur, may mandate the withdrawal of the drug, such as in cases of,
Eosinophilia
Haemolytic anemia
Thrombocytopenia, and
Increased hepatic enzymes
Colitis, haemorrhage, and aplastic anemia are extremely rare side effects. Certain blood tests are required when patients consume the drug, as per the directions of the physician.