Cephalexin

Cephalexin — Uses and Benefits

Cephalexin is used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria in various parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Respiratory tract infections such as tonsillitis and bronchitis
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Ear infections (otitis media)
• Urinary tract infections
• Bone infections
• Infections of the genital tract

HOW IT WORKS

• Cephalexin belongs to a group of medicines called cephalosporin antibiotics
• It works by stopping bacteria from building their protective outer wall
• Without this wall, the bacteria are unable to survive and the infection is controlled

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not work against viral infections such as common cold or flu
• It is not effective against fungal infections
• It should not be used to prevent infections unless specifically advised by your doctor
• It is not a painkiller and does not treat fever on its own

How to Use Cephalexin

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset
• Swallow tablets or capsules with a glass of water; shake the liquid suspension well before use
• Complete the full course of treatment even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to stop
• Try to take doses at evenly spaced times through the day

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

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

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the liquid suspension in the refrigerator if advised by the pharmacist, and discard any unused portion after the recommended period
• Keep all medicines out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Cephalexin — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach upset or pain
• Indigestion

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Tiredness
• 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 with difficulty breathing
• Severe or watery diarrhoea that does not stop, which may indicate a serious gut infection
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Seizures or confusion

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

Cephalexin — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to cephalexin or other cephalosporin antibiotics
• Have had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin antibiotics in the past (cross-reaction is possible)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

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

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Metformin, as cephalexin may affect its levels in the body
• Probenecid, which can increase cephalexin levels
• Blood thinners such as warfarin, as effects may be altered
• Other antibiotics, only if advised by your doctor

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking this medicine once I feel better?

No, you should complete the full course as prescribed to prevent the infection from returning or becoming resistant.

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it may increase stomach side effects and reduce your recovery.

Is this medicine safe for children?

• Cephalexin can be prescribed for children by a doctor, usually as a liquid suspension with dosing based on body weight.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.