Cephalexin 375mg

Cephalexin 375mg — Uses and Benefits

Cephalexin 375mg is prescribed to treat a range of bacterial infections 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
• Ear infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Bone infections (osteomyelitis) in some cases
• Other infections as advised by your doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It belongs to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics
• It works by stopping bacteria from building their protective cell wall
• Without a proper cell wall, the bacteria cannot survive and the infection is cleared

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not work against viral infections like common cold, flu, or most sore throats
• It is not effective for fungal infections
• It should not be used to self-treat infections without a doctor's diagnosis
• It is not a painkiller and does not treat pain on its own

How to Use Cephalexin 375mg

Cephalexin 375mg should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor for the best results and to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take it by mouth, with a full glass of water
• It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset
• Take it at evenly spaced times as advised by your doctor to maintain steady levels in the body
• Complete the full course even if you feel better before it ends
• Do not stop the medicine early unless your doctor tells you to

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 your normal schedule
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light, and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• If a liquid suspension has been prepared, check the label for how long it can be stored, usually a limited number of days, and discard any leftover
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Cephalexin 375mg — Side Effects

Like all medicines, Cephalexin 375mg can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them.

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach upset or pain
• Indigestion

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Vaginal itching or discharge
• Mild skin rash

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of severe allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
• Severe or bloody diarrhoea, which may indicate a serious bowel infection
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Reduced urine output or swelling suggesting kidney problems

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

Cephalexin 375mg — Safety Information and Precautions

Cephalexin 375mg is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only on a doctor's advice and prescription.

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 or reduced kidney function
• Have a history of stomach or bowel problems, especially colitis
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of seizures
• Are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines or supplements

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Metformin, as cephalexin may affect its levels
• Probenecid, which can increase cephalexin levels in the body
• Blood thinners such as warfarin, as effects on bleeding may be increased
• Other antibiotics, unless specifically advised together by your doctor

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take Cephalexin 375mg for a common cold?

No, it is an antibiotic and does not work against viral infections like the common cold.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

Alcohol is generally not recommended while on antibiotics as it may worsen side effects like stomach upset.

Can I stop the medicine once I feel better?

• No, you should complete the full course as prescribed to fully clear the infection and prevent resistance.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.