Cefalexin 100 mg

Cefalexin 100 mg — Uses and Benefits

Cefalexin is used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria in different parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis and tonsillitis
• Ear infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Bone and joint infections
• Other bacterial infections as advised by your doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Cefalexin belongs to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics
• It works by weakening the bacterial cell wall, which causes the bacteria to die
• This helps to control and clear the infection over the course of treatment

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Viral infections like common cold, flu, or most sore throats
• Fungal infections
• Preventing infections without a doctor's advice
• As a general painkiller or fever medicine

How to Use Cefalexin 100 mg

Take cefalexin exactly as prescribed by your doctor for the full course, even if you feel better.

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take with or without food, as advised by your doctor
• Swallow tablets or capsules with a glass of water
• Shake the syrup well before measuring the dose with the given cup or spoon
• Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve early
• Do not stop the medicine on your own without consulting your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat and moisture
• Keep the syrup form in the refrigerator if advised by your pharmacist, and discard unused portion after the recommended period
• Keep all medicines out of reach of children

Cefalexin 100 mg — Side Effects

Cefalexin is generally well tolerated, but some side effects may occur.

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Stomach upset
• Indigestion

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Vaginal itching or discharge
• Skin rash

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe or bloody diarrhea, which may indicate a serious bowel infection
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe skin reactions with blistering or peeling

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Cefalexin 100 mg — Safety Information and Precautions

Cefalexin is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to cefalexin or other cephalosporin antibiotics
• Have had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin antibiotics in the past

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease
• Have a history of stomach or bowel diseases, especially colitis
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are allergic to any medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Probenecid
• Other antibiotics
• Metformin, in some cases

Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking cefalexin once I feel better?

No, you should complete the full course as prescribed, otherwise the infection may come back or become resistant to treatment.

Is cefalexin safe during pregnancy?

It should only be used during pregnancy if your doctor feels it is necessary, so always inform your doctor if you are pregnant.

Can I drink alcohol while taking cefalexin?

• Alcohol is generally not recommended while on antibiotics as it may worsen side effects like stomach upset; check with your doctor.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.