home→Tablets→ Cephalexin side effects. Description of the drug Cefalexin - composition and instructions for use, contraindications and analogues

Cephalexin side effects. Description of the drug Cefalexin - composition and instructions for use, contraindications and analogues

Cefalexin INN

Description of the active substance (INN) Cephalexin.

Pharmacology : pharmachologic effect - antibacterial . Inhibits transpeptidase - an enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of the mucopeptide of the bacterial cell wall, has a bactericidal effect. Stable in an acidic environment.

Active against gram-positive (staphylococci, including those producing penicillinase, streptococci, pneumococci, diphtheria bacillus) and, to a lesser extent, gram-negative microorganisms (meningococci, gonococci, E. coli, salmonella, shigella, neisseria, certain types of proteus, influenza bacillus , Klebsiella, pathogenic spirochetes and indole-positive strains of Proteus, anaerobes). Resistant to penicillinase of staphylococci, but destroyed by cephalosporinase of gram-negative microorganisms.

Indications : Infections (mild and moderate severity) of ENT organs (otitis media, tonsillitis, sinusitis), upper and lower respiratory tract(pharyngitis, pneumonia, bronchopneumonia, pleural empyema, lung abscess), genitourinary system(acute and chronic pyelonephritis, cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, epididymitis, gynecological infections, gonorrhea), skin and soft tissues (furunculosis, abscess, cellulitis, pyoderma, lymphangitis), bones and joints (acute and chronic osteomyelitis).

Contraindications : Hypersensitivity (including to other beta-lactamines - penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems).

Use during pregnancy and lactation : Perhaps if the expected effect of therapy outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. At the time of treatment should stop breastfeeding.

Side effects : Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dry mouth, lack of appetite, abdominal pain, transient increase in serum aminotransferases and alkaline phosphatase, pseudomembranous colitis, cholestatic jaundice, hepatitis, headaches, dizziness, weakness; leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, dysbacteriosis, superinfection, allergic reactions: itching, skin rash, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylactic shock.

Interaction : Furosemide, ethacrynic acid, and nephrotoxic antibiotics increase the risk of kidney damage. Enhances the effect of indirect anticoagulants. Salicylates and indomethacin slow down excretion.

Dosage and administration : Inside (before meals). Adults: 250-500 mg 2-4 times a day. The daily dose is 1-2 g, if necessary, can be increased to 4 g.

Children weighing less than 40 kg - 25-50 mg / kg per day (up to 100 mg / kg per day).

In case of violation of the excretory function of the kidneys with Cl creatinine up to 5-20 ml / min, the maximum daily dose should not exceed 1.5 g, and with Cl creatinine less than 5 ml / min - 0.5 g. The daily dose is divided into 4 doses. The duration of treatment is 7-14 days.

Chemical Name: 7-(D-a-aminophenylacetamido)-3-methyl-3cephem-4-carboxylic acid monohydrate

Dosage form: Capsules.

Description

Hard gelatin capsules with white body and green cap, size 2 (250 mg dosage) or size 0 (500 mg dosage),

Composition: 1 capsule contains active ingredient: cephalexin - 250 mg or 500 mg; excipients: lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, talc (for a dosage of 250 mg), colloidal silicon dioxide (for a dosage of 250 mg), gelatin capsule size "2" (for a dosage of 250 mg) or size "0" (for a dosage of 500 mg) : brilliant blue E133, tartrazine E102, titanium dioxide E171, gelatin.

Pharmacotherapeutic group: 1st generation cephalosporins. ATX code J01DB01.

Indications for use

Infections caused by susceptible microorganisms:

otorhinolaryngological infections (pharyngitis, otitis media, sinusitis, tonsillitis);

respiratory tract infections (bronchitis, pneumonia, empyema and lung abscess);

infections of the genitourinary system (pyelonephritis, cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, epididymitis, endometritis, gonorrhea, vulvovaginitis);

skin and soft tissue infections (furunculosis, abscess, phlegmon, pyoderma, lymphadenitis, lymphangitis);

bone and joint infections (osteomyelitis)

Method of application and dosage

The dosing regimen of cephalexin is set individually, taking into account the severity of the course, the localization of the infection and the sensitivity of the pathogen.

The drug is prescribed orally, 30-40 minutes before a meal, the capsules are taken without chewing, drinking 150-200 ml of water.

Adults and children over 12 years of age are prescribed at a dose of 250 mg 4 times a day (every 6 hours) or 500 mg 2 times a day (every 12 hours). The daily dose is 1000 mg, in case of severe infection, the daily dose can be increased to 4000 mg.

In patients with impaired renal function (with a creatinine clearance of 10 ml / min or less), the maximum daily dose should not exceed 1500 mg.

Elderly patients: Pharmacokinetic data show that there is no need to adjust the dosage of the drug in elderly patients, however, age-related changes in renal function must be taken into account. With a significant violation of it, the dose should be reduced and renal function should be carefully monitored during treatment.

The duration of treatment depends on the nature and severity of the pathological process and is determined by the data of bacteriological studies. Usually the duration of treatment is 7-14 days, but in severe infectious diseases, longer therapy may be required. For most infectious diseases, treatment continues for at least another 48-72 hours after the disappearance of the symptoms of the disease and / or according to the results of bacteriological analysis. For infections caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, the minimum duration of treatment is 10 days.

Side effect

From the digestive system: pain in the abdomen, dry mouth, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, gastritis, diarrhea, toxic hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice, intestinal candidiasis, oral cavity, rarely - colitis, incl. pseudomembranous enterocolitis.

From the hematopoietic system: neutropenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia / thrombocytosis, pancytopenia, agranulocytosis, lymphopenia, hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, eosinophilia, bleeding.

Allergic reactions: urticaria, angioedema, erythematous rash, malignant exudative erythema(Stevens-Johnson syndrome), toxic epidermal necrolysis (Lyell's syndrome), anaphylactic shock, artharlia, arthritis, genital itching and anus, fever.

From the side nervous system: dizziness, weakness, headache, agitation, hallucinations, convulsions.

From the genitourinary system: genital candidiasis, vaginitis, interstitial nephritis, manifestations of nephrotoxicity in patients with impaired renal function are possible.

Laboratory indicators: transient increase in the level of hepatic transaminases, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, LDH, urea, creatinine in the blood serum; increase in prothrombin time.

Contraindications

Allergic reactions in history (anaphylaxis) to penicillins, penicillin derivatives, penicillamine or cephalosporins; diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, especially ulcerative colitis associated with the use of antibiotics (cephalosporin can cause pseudomembranous colitis); severe violations of the liver and kidneys.

Children's age up to 12 years.

Overdose

SYMPTOMS: nausea, vomiting, discomfort in the epigastric region, diarrhea and hematuria. If other symptoms are observed, they appear to be secondary to the underlying condition.

TREATMENT: symptomatic.

Precautionary measures

The use of cephalexin is possible only on prescription.

Before the appointment of cephalexin, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive examination of the patient, taking into account possible reactions hypersensitivity to cephalosporins and penicillins.

Use with caution in severe violations of kidney and / or liver function, indications of colitis in history.

During treatment can't drink alcohol and medicines containing alcohol.

When prescribing almost all broad-spectrum antibiotics (including macrolides, semi-synthetic penicillins and cephalosporins), cases of pseudomembranous colitis are possible, so this diagnosis should be considered in patients who develop diarrhea after antibiotic use. Such colitis can manifest itself both in a mild form and in a life-threatening form. Mild forms of pseudomembranous colitis usually resolve after discontinuation of the drug. Moderate and severe forms require rectosigmoscopy, as well as bacteriological analysis, the introduction of fluids, electrolytes and protein supplements. If the patient's condition does not improve after stopping the drug, or in cases of severe colitis, oral vancomycin is prescribed. Other causes of colitis are excluded.

While taking cephalexin, it is possible to falsely positive reaction for sugar in the urine using Benedict and Fehling reagents, as well as a positive direct Coombs test.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

Perhaps if the expected effect of therapy outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. At the time of treatment should stop breastfeeding.

Influence on the ability to drive vehicles or other mechanisms:

The use of cephalexin does not affect the ability to drive vehicles and work with other mechanisms.

Interaction with others medicines

The wide spectrum of action of cephalexin allows the drug to be used both for monotherapy of infections and for combined treatment in combination with other drugs, including antibiotics.

However, it should be borne in mind that with the simultaneous appointment of cephalexin with aminoglycoside antibiotics, loop diuretics (ethacrynic acid, furosemide), polymyxins, the risk of nephrotoxicity increases. The combined use of cephalexin with erythromycin reduces the effectiveness of both drugs.

With the simultaneous use of cephalexin and metformin, a dose adjustment of metformin may be required (with the combined use of drugs, the concentration of metformin in the blood plasma increases).

Probenecid, phenylbutazone inhibit the renal excretion of cephalexin.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (indomethacin, acetylsalicylic acid) slow down the excretion of cephalexin.

The simultaneous use of cephalexin with indirect anticoagulants can lead to an increase in prothrombin time.

Cefalexin enhances the action of antithrombotic agents and vitamin K antagonists.

When administered simultaneously with oral coagulants, the possibility of prolongation of the prothrombin time should be considered.

Terms and conditions of storage

Store in a place protected from moisture and light at a temperature not exceeding + 25°C.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Shelf life - 3 years.

Do not use the drug after the expiration date.

Leave conditions: By prescription.

Package

10 or f20 capsules in polymer jars.

10 capsules in a blister pack.

One can or 1 or 2 blisters with leaflet in secondary packaging.

Produced:“Belarusian-Dutch Joint Venture Limited Liability Company “Pharmland” (JV LLC “Pharmland”), Republic of Belarus, Nesvizh, st. Leninskaya, 124-. 3, tel/fax 288-96-64

In 1 capsule 250 mg or 500 mg cephalexin . Magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose - as excipients.

In 5 ml suspension cephalexin 250 mg. Sodium saccharinate, citric acid, iron oxide, guar gum, sodium benzoate, simethicone, sucrose, flavor - as excipients.

Release form

Coated tablets 0.25g. Capsules 250 mg and 500 mg. Granules for the preparation of a suspension of 250 mg / 5 ml in a vial.

pharmachologic effect

Antibacterial.

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

Pharmacodynamics

The antibiotic cephalexin belongs to cephalosporins I generation. Violates the synthesis of the cell membrane of microorganisms, which leads to their death. Shows activity towards streptococci , Escherichia , protea ,klebsiel . Below activity for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Shigella spp., Neisseria meningitidis, Salmonella spp., therefore, it is not used in the clinic of diseases caused by these microorganisms.

Ineffective against Enterococcus faecalis Proteus vulgaris, Morganella morganii, Clostridium spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa. He is also sensitive to it methicillin-resistant staphylococci .

Is collapsing beta-lactamases allocated Gram-negative microorganisms .

Pharmacokinetics

When taken orally, it is well absorbed and bioavailability is 90-95%. The maximum concentration in the blood is determined after 1 hour, and the required concentration is maintained for 4–6 hours. It binds to blood proteins by 10–15%. It is evenly distributed in many tissues and body fluids: it does not penetrate well through the BBB, passes through the placenta. Not metabolized. T1 / 2 is 0.8–1.2 hours. About 89% is excreted and a small part is excreted in the bile. In case of impaired renal function, the elimination time is prolonged and the concentration increases.

Indications for use

respiratory infections ( pneumonia , lung abscess , empyema );
diseases of the ENT organs (,);
urinary tract infection ( vulvovaginitis );
purulent diseases of the skin and tissues ( phlegmon , furunculosis , );

Contraindications

This antibiotic should not be taken with:

identified hypersensitivity ;
breastfeeding;
sucrase deficiency;
fructose intolerance.

With caution is prescribed for pseudomembranous colitis, kidney failure, under the age of 6 months (suspension).

Side effects

rash , ;
Stevens-Johnson syndrome ;
abdominal pain;
loss of appetite;
dry mouth;
nausea;
cholestasis ;
increased activity transaminases liver;
intestines and oral cavity;
headache;
excitation;
convulsions ;
interstitial nephritis ;
genital organs;
itching of the genitals;
arthralgia ;
leukopenia , thrombocytopenia .

Instructions for use Cefalexin (Method and dosage)

Suspension Cefalexin, instructions for use

Approximate dose for children:

up to 1 year - 2.5 ml of suspension 3-4 times a day;
from 1 year to 3 years - 5 ml 3 times;
from 3 to 6 years - 7.5 ml 3 times;
from 6 to 10 years - 10 ml 3 times;
from 10 years to 14 years - 10 ml 3 times.

In each case, the dose and frequency of its administration is specified by the doctor, depending on the disease and its severity. In some cases (non-severe skin infections, urinary tract, pharyngitis ) the dose is divided into 2 doses, and in severe cases of the disease, it is prescribed up to 6 times a day. The drug is recommended to be used for another 2-3 days after clinical improvement.

To prepare the suspension, water is added to the vial up to the mark on the vial and shaken. The suspension can be stored at room temperature for 2 weeks. Shake it well before use.

Tablets and capsules are taken orally 30 minutes before meals. The average dose for adults is 250-500 mg every 6 hours, 4 times a day. Thus, the daily dose is 1–2 g (not less), if necessary, it increases to 4 g, which corresponds to the maximum SD for adults, also children over 6 years old. The course of treatment is from 7 to 14 days.

In case of impaired renal function, the maximum SD - 1.5 g, it is divided into 2-4 doses. During treatment, there may be a false positive urine reaction to glucose . It is not recommended to drink alcohol. There are no injection forms (shots) for this drug - only forms for oral administration. Representative of injectable 1st generation cephalosporins is, II generation -, in the III generation there are much more of them -,.

Overdose

Overdose manifests itself: vomiting , nausea , pain in the stomach, the appearance.

Terms of sale

Released by prescription.

Storage conditions

Storage temperature up to 25°C.

Best before date

Cefalexin for children

In pediatric practice, the oral route of administration of drugs is the main route of administration, as the least traumatic. For this, there are special children's forms - syrups and suspensions. Among antibiotics, the leading position is occupied by cephalosporins , because they have a wide range of bactericidal action, good tolerance, resistant to beta-lactamase , are distinguished by ease of dosing, rarely occurring side effects.

Cephalosporins are an alternative penicillins in the treatment of infections of the respiratory tract, ENT organs. Their main area of application in pediatric practice is not severe infections. So, Cefalexin for children is used for sore throats , sinusitis , otitis media , cervical , streptococcal or staphylococcal skin infections . It is noted that penicillins , which are used for treatment, are not as effective as cephalosporins that cause eradication of group A β-hemolytic streptococcus and effective recovery of the child.

Cephalosporins remain in the tissues of the tonsils in bactericidal concentrations, while the concentration of penicillin decreases rapidly. Sinusitis is a common complication SARS and occurs in 10% of affected children. With bacterial sinusitis antibiotics (in this case more effective cephalosporins ) are an essential component of therapy. Suspension for children can be prescribed from birth, but the first 6 months with extreme caution. The recommended doses are given above, however, the doctor, based on the situation, adjusts the dose.

Cefalexin's analogs

Coincidence in the ATX code of the 4th level:

Analogues that have a similar effect: Zolin , . Preparations with one active ingredient: Keflex , lexin , Ospeksin .

Reviews about Cefalexin

What are Cefalexin tablets from? Since it has anti-staphylococcal and anti-streptococcal activity, indications for use determine its intake with, pneumonia , otitis media , pleural empyema ,sinusitis , skin infections.

This is evidenced by patient reviews:

« … I treat a sore throat with cephalexin, it has been difficult since childhood at a high temperature»;
« ... I give it to my husband, he often has otitis media. Of the adverse reactions, he notes only drowsiness. Does not cause dyspepsia»;
«. .. My sinusitis is perfectly treated by them. Feeling better from the second day».

In reviews of the drug, it is often used for urinary tract infections that are not amenable to standard treatment, for example, with recurrent cystitis . It was prescribed to patients in the hospital, after cystoscopy or use of a catheter, if the patient has.

Judging by the reviews, Cefalexin suspension was prescribed to children most often with otitis media , sore throats and if you suspect pneumonia . The suspension has a pleasant fruity smell and does not cause negative emotions in children. Reviews for children are more often positive. moms celebrate fast recovery and good drug tolerance. Here are some reviews of Cefalexin suspension:

« ... My daughter had a sore throat. The doctor prescribed cephalexin + hilak. Things are on the mend»;
« … The child had a cough and otitis media. This drug removed the temperature literally in a day, and after five days we were already healthy»;
« ... My daughter drank it without scandals. She had a sore throat and ear, was very heat. Improved after a day»;
« … I have an asthmatic child and Cefalexin is our only antibiotic for colds and sore throats. Helps very well. The suspension is easy to prepare. He drinks it with pleasure, does not even drink anything».

In some cases, stool disorders were noted, which is associated with the action antibiotic on the intestinal microflora, and nausea.

Chemical Name: 7-(D-a-aminophenylacetamido)-3-methyl-3cephem-4-carboxylic acid monohydrate

Dosage form: Capsules.

Description

Hard gelatin capsules with white body and green cap, size 2 (250 mg dosage) or size 0 (500 mg dosage),

Pharmacotherapeutic group: 1st generation cephalosporins. ATX code J01DB01.

Indications for use

Infections caused by susceptible microorganisms:

otorhinolaryngological infections (pharyngitis, otitis media, sinusitis, tonsillitis);

respiratory tract infections (bronchitis, pneumonia, empyema and lung abscess);

infections of the genitourinary system (pyelonephritis, cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, epididymitis, endometritis, gonorrhea, vulvovaginitis);

skin and soft tissue infections (furunculosis, abscess, phlegmon, pyoderma, lymphadenitis, lymphangitis);

bone and joint infections (osteomyelitis)

Method of application and dosage

The dosing regimen of cephalexin is set individually, taking into account the severity of the course, the localization of the infection and the sensitivity of the pathogen.

The drug is prescribed orally, 30-40 minutes before a meal, the capsules are taken without chewing, drinking 150-200 ml of water.

In patients with impaired renal function (with a creatinine clearance of 10 ml / min or less), the maximum daily dose should not exceed 1500 mg.

Side effect

From the digestive system: pain in the abdomen, dry mouth, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, gastritis, diarrhea, toxic hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice, candidiasis of the intestine, oral cavity, rarely - colitis, incl. pseudomembranous enterocolitis.

From the hematopoietic system: neutropenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia / thrombocytosis, pancytopenia, agranulocytosis, lymphopenia, hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, eosinophilia, bleeding.

Allergic reactions: urticaria, angioedema, erythematous rashes, malignant exudative erythema (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), toxic epidermal necrolysis (Lyell's syndrome), anaphylactic shock, artharlia, arthritis, itching of the genitals and anus, fever.

From the nervous system: dizziness, weakness, headache, agitation, hallucinations, convulsions.

From the genitourinary system: genital candidiasis, vaginitis, interstitial nephritis, manifestations of nephrotoxicity in patients with impaired renal function are possible.

Laboratory indicators: transient increase in the level of hepatic transaminases, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, LDH, urea, creatinine in the blood serum; increase in prothrombin time.

Contraindications

Children's age up to 12 years.

Overdose

SYMPTOMS: nausea, vomiting, discomfort in the epigastric region, diarrhea and hematuria. If other symptoms are observed, they appear to be secondary to the underlying condition.

TREATMENT: symptomatic.

Precautionary measures

The use of cephalexin is possible only on prescription.

Before the appointment of cephalexin, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive examination of the patient, taking into account possible hypersensitivity reactions to cephalosporins and penicillins.

Use with caution in severe violations of kidney and / or liver function, indications of colitis in history.

During treatment can't drink alcohol and medicines containing alcohol.

While taking cephalexin, a false positive reaction to sugar in the urine is possible when using the Benedict and Fehling reagents, as well as a positive direct Coombs reaction.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

Perhaps if the expected effect of therapy outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. At the time of treatment should stop breastfeeding.

Influence on the ability to drive vehicles or other mechanisms:

The use of cephalexin does not affect the ability to drive vehicles and work with other mechanisms.

Interaction with other drugs

The wide spectrum of action of cephalexin allows the drug to be used both for monotherapy of infections and for combined treatment in combination with other drugs, including antibiotics.

With the simultaneous use of cephalexin and metformin, a dose adjustment of metformin may be required (with the combined use of drugs, the concentration of metformin in the blood plasma increases).

Probenecid, phenylbutazone inhibit the renal excretion of cephalexin.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (indomethacin, acetylsalicylic acid) slow down the excretion of cephalexin.

The simultaneous use of cephalexin with indirect anticoagulants can lead to an increase in prothrombin time.

Cefalexin enhances the action of antithrombotic agents and vitamin K antagonists.

When administered simultaneously with oral coagulants, the possibility of prolongation of the prothrombin time should be considered.

Terms and conditions of storage

Store in a place protected from moisture and light at a temperature not exceeding + 25°C.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Shelf life - 3 years.

Do not use the drug after the expiration date.

Leave conditions: By prescription.

Package

10 or f20 capsules in polymer jars.

10 capsules in a blister pack.

One can or 1 or 2 blisters with leaflet in secondary packaging.

Produced:“Belarusian-Dutch Joint Venture Limited Liability Company “Pharmland” (JV LLC “Pharmland”), Republic of Belarus, Nesvizh, st. Leninskaya, 124-. 3, tel/fax 288-96-64

Cefalexin is a 1st generation cephalosporin. Available in tablet form and as a suspension for internal use. The active ingredient is cephalexin. The substance has a pronounced antibacterial effect against a number of pathogenic microorganisms. Instructions for use Cefalexin says that the tablets are prescribed for the treatment of purulent pathologies of the skin and soft tissues, gonorrhea, diseases of the upper respiratory tract, infections of the genitourinary system, respiratory tract, and other diseases. Consider the features of the use of the drug, analogues in tablets and injections.

Composition, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

The pharmacological action of the drug is antibacterial. Capsules are available with different dosages - 250 and 500 mg each. active ingredient. Magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose are indicated as additional components in the description of the drug. 5 milliliters of suspension contains 250 mg of the active ingredient. Auxiliary components in the composition: sucrose, flavors, simethicone, citric acid, etc.

For your information: antibacterial drug Cephalexin belongs to the group of first-generation cephalosporins. The drug disrupts the structure of the cell membrane of pathogenic microorganisms, which leads to their death.

There is a high biological activity against Klebsiella, streptococci, Proteus, Escherichia. The antibiotic is not effective for the treatment of pathologies that are caused by salmonella, Shigella spp., Neisseria meningitidis, Morganella morganii. Active substance is destroyed by beta-lactamases produced by gram-negative microbes.

Against the background of oral administration, it is well absorbed, the bioavailability of the drug is over 90%. The maximum content of cephalexin is detected 60 minutes after application, the therapeutic concentration is maintained for 4-6 hours. Approximately 15% of the drug binds to plasma proteins; the substance is evenly distributed in all body fluids and tissues. Cefalexin crosses the placental barrier. Excreted with bile.

Indications, contraindications and side effects

Cefalexin is available only in tablets and suspensions, it is not sold in ampoules. Assign pills for the treatment of respiratory tract infections - with pneumonia, lung abscess. For the treatment of diseases of the ENT organs - with sinusitis, otitis media, tonsillitis, pharyngitis and the genitourinary system - with cystitis, pyelonephritis, urethritis, prostatitis, gonorrhea. The antibiotic is recommended against the background of purulent pathologies of the skin and tissues - with phlegmon, furunculosis, pyoderma, lymphadenitis.

Contraindications to the use of tablets:

Organic intolerance to the composition;
Pregnancy;
Lactation;
Lack of sucrose in the body;
Fructose intolerance.

With caution, tablets are prescribed against the background of pseudomembranous colitis, renal failure, chronic pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract, children under 6 months (in the form of a suspension).

The antibiotic Cefalexin is a powerful drug that helps destroy pathogenic microorganisms. There is a therapeutic effect in diseases provoked by sensitive bacteria to cephalexin. In some cases, the drug leads to the development of negative phenomena:

Allergy (rash, urticaria, flushing and burning of the skin, peeling).
Angioedema.
Pain in the abdomen.
Dryness in the mouth.
Disorders of the digestive process.
Attacks of nausea (sometimes vomiting), loose stools.
Candidiasis of the mouth, intestines.
Headaches, dizziness.
Convulsive conditions.
Itching of the genitals.
Leukopenia, increased activity of liver enzymes, etc.

With the development of side effects, it is necessary to interrupt therapy, seek help from a medical specialist. As a rule, a substitute from the cephalosporin group is recommended, for example, a good analogue is Ceftriaxone in tablets or injections.

Instructions for use of the drug Cefalexin

Until the age of 10, children are prescribed a medicine in the form of a suspension. One milliliter of the drug contains 50 mg of the active ingredient. The dosage is determined by the age of the small patient. Children under one year old should take 2.5 ml up to 4 times a day; 1-3 years - 5 ml three times a day; 3-6 years - 7.5 ml three times a day. A child 6-10 years old is prescribed 10 ml three times in 24 hours, and children from 10 to 14 years old, 10 ml 3 times or the same dosage, but in tablets.

In each specific situation, the dose and frequency of use are determined individually. For example, in case of mild infections, a double application at an average dosage is sufficient, and against the background of a severe course of the pathology, higher doses and multiplicity up to 6 times a day are required. The medicine is used for a few more days after feeling better.

Worth knowing: to prepare the suspension in the vial, add water to the mark, shake well. Storage is allowed for 14 days at room temperature; be sure to shake before use.

Adults are most often prescribed Cefalexin 500.
Instructions for use in tablets are as follows:

Tablets are taken orally half an hour before meals;
The average dosage for one application is 500 mg;
Multiplicity of use - 4 times a day;
Daily dose of at least 1000-2000 mg;
The maximum dose per day is 4000 mg;
The duration of the treatment course is 1-2 weeks.

If the patient has a history of impaired renal function, then the maximum dosage per day is 1500 mg - it is divided into several applications. During therapy, it is strictly forbidden to consume alcoholic products.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

During pregnancy, pills are not prescribed. This is due to the fact that cephalexin can penetrate the placental barrier, which leads to toxic damage to the organs and central nervous system of the fetus. Clinical researches on the safety of medications in the first trimester of pregnancy have not been evaluated.

During lactation, tablets are prescribed for strict medical reasons, when the potential benefit to the mother outweighs the risk of harm to the child. If the baby develops side effects, then cancel medicinal product or switch to artificial feeding.

Cephalexin of any form of release is carefully prescribed for kidney diseases. In patients with hypersensitivity to cephalosporins high risk allergies. During the period of therapy, there may be a positive Coombs reaction, a false positive reaction of urine to glucose.

Cefalexin's analogs

Similar drugs in the form of injections belonging to the group of cephalosporins - Cefazolin (first generation), Cefuroxime (second generation), Ceftriaxone, Cefotaxime, Cefoperazone (third generation). The list can be supplemented with analogues such as Ecocephron (tablets), Cefaklen, Felexin, Palitrex and other medicines.

Important: if the patient cannot take tablets / suspension, then instead of Cephalexin, his analogue in injections, Ceftriaxone, is prescribed. The antibiotic is effective against gram-negative and gram-positive aerobes, anaerobes (with the exception of Clostridium difficile).

Ceftriaxone is prescribed for the treatment of infected wounds / burns, infectious lesions of the oral cavity. Tablets are taken for syphilis, tick-borne borreliosis, infections of the abdominal cavity and other diseases. The drug is not prescribed if there is a history of renal / hepatic failure, enteritis or colitis, and other diseases associated with antibiotic therapy. It is forbidden to give injections during pregnancy, lactation.

So, what are the instructions for using injections, how to dilute Ceftriaxone?
Features of the treatment course:

The drug is administered intramuscularly or intravenously.
The dose for an adult and children from 12 years of age is 1000-2000 mg of the active ingredient. The medicine is administered once every 12 hours at half the dosage.
In special cases, when pathogens are moderately susceptible to the antibiotic, it is allowed to increase the dose to 4 g.
With gonorrhea, a single dose of 250 mg is administered.
If the prescribed dose is more than 50 mg per kilogram of body weight, then only intravenous infusion is used for at least half an hour.

The duration of therapy is determined by the causative agent of the disease. For example, if the pathology is caused by the activity of diplococci, then the therapeutic effect is detected on day 3-4; if enterobacteria, then the treatment lasts 10-14 days.

Rules for dilution of the drug:

For dilution, Lidocaine solution or water for injection is used. When using the latter option, it should be borne in mind that the administration of Ceftriaxone is painful. Most often diluted with water in cases where the patient is allergic to Lidocaine;
Dilution with 1% Lidocaine. To make an intramuscular injection, 500 mg of Ceftriaxone must be diluted in 2 ml of solution. Enter strictly into the muscle, not into the vein;
Dilution with 2% Lidocaine: 1000 mg of Ceftriaxone is diluted in 1.8 ml of water and the same amount of Lidocaine.

Side effects of Ceftriaxone: disorders of the central nervous system, allergic reactions, dyspeptic manifestations. Some patients manifest: intestinal dysbacteriosis, stomatitis, glossitis, oliguria. Injections can lead to impaired hematopoiesis: anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis.

Cefalexin is prescribed only by a doctor. The duration of the course, dose, frequency of administration are determined individually. Tablets or suspension can be bought at a pharmacy, the price is determined by the manufacturer and the form of the drug. The price of a tablet form is about $ 1.5, and the cost of a suspension is $ 1.1-1.3.