Cephalexin is generally taken orally, and the exact method of use can vary depending on the specific formulation:

1. Oral tablets or capsules: Take with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. However, taking cephalexin with food can help reduce any stomach upset.
2. Liquid suspension: Shake the bottle well before measuring the dose. Use the provided measuring spoon or syringe to ensure accurate dosing.
3. Dosage frequency: Typically, cephalexin is taken every 6 to 12 hours, depending on the specific infection being treated. Be sure to follow the dosing schedule carefully.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.

Cephalexin works by disrupting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. Specifically, it binds to enzymes called penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) that are essential for the bacteria’s ability to form their cell walls. Without these cell walls, bacteria become structurally unstable, eventually leading to their destruction.

Since cephalexin targets cell wall synthesis, it is only effective against actively dividing bacteria. It has no effect on non-dividing cells or viruses.

This mode of action makes cephalexin effective against a variety of bacterial infections, including those caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli.

Common side effects of cephalexin may include:

• Gastrointestinal issues: Diarrhea, nausea, and stomach upset are relatively common.
• Allergic reactions: Symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing may indicate an allergic reaction.
• Yeast infections: Like many antibiotics, cephalexin can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the body, leading to overgrowth of yeast (fungal infections like thrush or vaginal yeast infections).
• Dizziness or headaches: Some people may experience dizziness or headaches while on cephalexin.

Severe side effects, although rare, include:

• Severe skin reactions: Including blistering, peeling, or a rash that may indicate a more serious reaction.
• Severe allergic reactions: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.

If you experience any severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Before using cephalexin, it is important to be aware of the following warnings and precautions:

• Allergy to cephalosporins or penicillin: If you have a history of allergies to cephalosporin antibiotics or penicillin, inform your healthcare provider. Cross-allergies can occur, and alternative treatments may be recommended.
• Kidney disease: Cephalexin is processed by the kidneys, so it should be used cautiously in people with renal impairment. Your doctor may need to adjust the dose or monitor kidney function during treatment.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Cephalexin is classified as a Category B drug for pregnancy, meaning it is considered safe for use during pregnancy, but should be used only when necessary. It is also excreted in breast milk, so use during breastfeeding should be done cautiously and under the advice of a healthcare provider.
• Use of probiotics: To help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea and yeast infections, some people may benefit from taking probiotics during their antibiotic course.

Cephalexin may interact with several other medications. Some potential interactions include:

• Probenecid: Probenecid can increase the levels of cephalexin in the blood by slowing its excretion from the body.
• Anticoagulants: Cephalexin can interact with blood thinners like warfarin, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding.
• Metformin: There is a potential for altered blood sugar levels when cephalexin is taken with metformin.
• Other antibiotics: When taken with other antibiotics (especially bacteriostatic antibiotics like tetracyclines), the effectiveness of cephalexin can be reduced.

Always inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

The appropriate dosage of cephalexin depends on the infection being treated and the patient’s health status. Common dosing guidelines include:

• Adults: Typically 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 to 12 hours, with the exact dose depending on the severity of the infection.
• Children: The dosage for children is usually 25 mg to 50 mg per kg of body weight, divided into doses throughout the day.

It is essential to follow the dosing instructions provided by your doctor or the medication label.

Cephalexin is available only with a prescription, which means a healthcare provider must evaluate the patient’s condition and determine if cephalexin is the appropriate treatment. It is important to complete the entire prescribed course, even if symptoms improve early, to ensure the infection is fully treated and reduce the risk of resistance.

1. What is Cephalexin?

Answer: Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.

2. How does Cephalexin work?

Answer: It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, killing the bacteria.

3. What types of infections does Cephalexin treat?

Answer: It treats respiratory tract infections, skin infections, ear infections, bone infections, and urinary tract infections.

4. How should I take Cephalexin?

Answer: Take it orally with or without food, as prescribed by your doctor.

5. What is the usual dosage of Cephalexin?

Answer: Dosage varies but commonly 250-500 mg every 6 hours for adults.

6. Can Cephalexin be used for children?

Answer: Yes, it is used in children but dosage is weight-based and prescribed by a doctor.

7. Are there any common side effects of Cephalexin?

Answer: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash.

8. Can Cephalexin cause allergic reactions?

Answer: Yes, especially in people allergic to penicillin or cephalosporins; symptoms may include rash, itching, or swelling.

9. How long does it take for Cephalexin to work?

Answer: Symptoms often improve within a few days, but complete the prescribed course.

10. What should I do if I miss a dose?

Answer: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it is near the next dose time.

11. Can I take Cephalexin with food?

Answer: Yes, it can be taken with or without food.

12. Does Cephalexin interact with other medications?

Answer: Yes, it can interact with blood thinners, other antibiotics, and certain vaccines.

13. Can I drink alcohol while taking Cephalexin?

Answer: It’s best to avoid alcohol as it might increase side effects like stomach upset.

14. Is Cephalexin safe during pregnancy?

Answer: It is generally considered safe but consult your doctor before use.

15. Can Cephalexin be used to treat viral infections?

Answer: No, it is ineffective against viruses.

16. What should I do if I experience severe diarrhea during treatment?

Answer: Contact your doctor immediately as it may indicate a serious infection.

17. Can Cephalexin cause yeast infections?

Answer: Yes, antibiotics can disrupt normal flora and lead to yeast infections.

18. How should I store Cephalexin?

Answer: Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

19. Can bacteria become resistant to Cephalexin?

Answer: Yes, improper use can lead to antibiotic resistance.

20. Should I complete the full course of Cephalexin?

Answer: Yes, even if symptoms improve, complete the prescribed course to prevent resistance.