MedDataToolCephalexin is an antibiotic used to treat various infections, including those in the respiratory tract, skin, bones, and urinary tract. It works by stopping bacteria from building their protective walls, which helps to kill them. You typically take it in capsule form, starting with a dose of 250 mg every 6 hours, but it can also be taken as 500 mg every 12 hours, with a maximum daily dose of up to 4 grams if needed. It's important to know that if you have a known allergy to cephalexin or similar antibiotics, you should not take this medication. Additionally, if you're taking metformin for diabetes, be aware that cephalexin can affect how your body processes that medication.
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Uses
- Respiratory tract infections.
- Otitis media.
- Skin and skin structure infections.
- Bone infections.
- Genitourinary tract infections.
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Dosage
Adults: 250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours for 7 to 14 days.
Pediatric patients: 25 to 50 mg/kg for 7 to 14 days, 75 to 100 mg/kg for otitis media.
In severe infections, pediatric patients may receive 50 to 100 mg/kg.
Adjust doses for patients with severe kidney disease.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
diarrheanauseavomitingabdominal painhypersensitivity reactions
Serious
Clostridium difficile-associated diarrheaseizures
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Use only for bacterial infections to avoid drug resistance.
- Monitor for hypersensitivity reactions.
- Risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.
- May affect prothrombin activity.
- Adjust doses for severe kidney disease.
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Drug interactions
- Metforminincreased metformin concentrationsCaution
- Probenecidreduces cephalexin excretion.Caution
Ask about this drug
Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).