Cefalexin 250 mg

Cefalexin 250 mg — Uses and Benefits

Cefalexin 250 mg is prescribed 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 tonsillitis and bronchitis
• Urinary tract infections
• Ear infections
• Bone infections in some cases
• Certain dental infections as advised by the dentist

HOW IT WORKS

• It belongs to a class of antibiotics called cephalosporins
• It stops bacteria from building their protective outer wall
• Without this wall, the bacteria are destroyed and the infection is controlled

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Viral infections such as common cold, flu, or most sore throats
• Fungal infections
• Preventing infections without a doctor's advice
• Self-treatment of unexplained fever without diagnosis

How to Use Cefalexin 250 mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Swallow the tablet or capsule with a glass of water
• Can be taken with or without food, but taking with food may reduce stomach upset
• Take doses at evenly spaced intervals as advised
• Complete the full course even if you feel better before finishing it
• Do not stop early unless your doctor tells you to

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 a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight
• Keep out of reach of children
• If a liquid suspension has been prepared, check the label for how long it can be stored, usually a limited number of days after mixing
• Discard any unused medicine as per local guidance, do not flush down the drain

Cefalexin 250 mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach upset or pain
• Indigestion

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Vaginal itching or discharge
• Loss of appetite

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Severe or bloody diarrhoea
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Signs of a severe allergic reaction such as fainting or dizziness

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

Cefalexin 250 mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be taken after consulting a doctor.

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, unless your doctor confirms it is safe

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease
• Have a history of stomach or intestinal disease, especially colitis
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have any known drug allergies

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Metformin and other medicines cleared by the kidney
• Probenecid, which can increase cefalexin levels in the blood
• Other antibiotics being taken together

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

No, complete the full course as prescribed, stopping early can lead to the infection returning or antibiotic resistance.

Can I take this with milk or food?

Yes, it can be taken with or without food, and food may help reduce stomach upset.

Is it safe during pregnancy?

• It should only be used in pregnancy if your doctor considers it necessary, so please consult your doctor first.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.