Cephalexin: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibacterial medicine used to treat susceptible bacterial infections. It is most commonly prescribed for infections affecting the respiratory tract, skin, urinary or genital tract, ears, or bones. In the United Kingdom, cephalexin requires a prescription, and generic versions have been available since 1987-02-13.

Cephalexin is indicated for respiratory tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria. It is also used for otitis media, commonly called a middle-ear infection, and for infections of the skin and skin structures. Other listed uses include bone infections and genitourinary tract infections, including acute prostatitis.

The medicine should be used only when an infection is proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. Culture and susceptibility information may help clinicians select or modify antibacterial treatment. The listed susceptible bacteria vary according to the infection and include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.

The label lists oral capsules, tablets, film-coated tablets, and oral suspension or powder for suspension. The listed capsule strengths are 250 mg, 333 mg, 500 mg, and 750 mg, while tablets are listed as 250 mg and 500 mg. The suspension strengths are 125 mg/5 mL and 250 mg/5 mL.

The usual starting dose is 250 mg every 6 hours for adults and patients at least 15 years of age. The label lists 500 mg every 12 hours as an alternative regimen for this age group. The label lists treatment durations of 7 to 14 days, depending on infection type and severity.

The label lists paediatric doses based on body weight and infection type, with lower or adjusted dosing required in severe renal impairment. The label lists a maximum of 4 grams daily for more severe infections in adults and patients at least 15 years of age.

Cephalexin belongs to the cephalosporin group of antibacterial medicines. It works by interfering with the construction of the bacterial cell wall, a structure that helps bacteria keep their shape and survive. When susceptible bacteria cannot build a stable cell wall, they become weakened and die.

This action treats bacterial infections but does not treat viral illnesses such as ordinary colds. Different bacteria have different levels of susceptibility, so cephalexin is intended for infections caused by bacteria that are likely to respond to it. Using an antibacterial medicine when a bacterial infection is not present does not provide benefit and can encourage drug-resistant bacteria.

Available data from published epidemiological studies and pharmacovigilance case reports over several decades have not established cephalexin-associated risks of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. The available studies have methodological limitations. Cephalexin is present in human milk, and the relative infant dose is considered to be less than 1% of the maternal weight-adjusted dose.

There are limited data on effects in breastfed children and no data on effects on milk production. A doctor or pharmacist can discuss treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

A missed dose should be handled according to the dosing schedule and the advice from the prescriber or pharmacist. The next dose should not be doubled to compensate for a missed dose unless a healthcare professional specifically advises this.

Cephalexin is an antibacterial medicine, so completing the prescribed course and maintaining the intended schedule supports effective treatment and helps limit resistance. If several doses are missed, advice from a pharmacist or prescriber is appropriate.

The label lists storage at 20° to 25°C, in a tight, light-resistant container. Keep the medicine in its original container, protected from moisture and light, and out of the reach of children. Follow the dispensing label for any additional instructions.