Cephalexin is an antibiotic that can be used in case of infection by bacteria sensitive to this active substance. It is generally used in sinusitis, respiratory tract infections, otitis media, skin and soft tissue infections, bone infections, genitourinary tract infections and dental infections.
Cefalexin may also be known by its trade names Keflex, Cefacimed, Ceflexin or Cefaxon and can be purchased in pharmacies, for a price of about 7 to 30 reais, upon presentation of a prescription.
What is it for
Cephalexin has a bactericidal action, destroying the bacteria that cause the infection and can be indicated to treat sinusitis, respiratory tract infections, otitis media, skin and soft tissue infections, bone infections, genitourinary tract infections and dental infections.
How to take
The recommended dose depends on the infection to be treated and the age of the person:
1. Cafalexin 500 mg tablets or 1 g
Daily doses for adults range from 1 to 4 g in divided doses, with the usual adult dose being 250 mg every 6 hours.
To treat streptococcal pharyngitis, skin infections and skin structures and uncomplicated cystitis in patients over 15 years of age, a dose of 500 mg or 1 g can be administered every 12 hours for about 7 to 14 days.
For infections of the respiratory tract, caused by S. pneumoniae and S. pyogenes, it is necessary to use a dose of 500 mg every 6 hours.
More serious infections or those caused by less susceptible microorganisms require higher doses. If daily doses of cephalexin above 4 g are required, the physician should consider the use of an injectable cephalosporin in appropriate doses.
2. Cephalexin oral suspension 250 mg / 5 mL and 500 mg / 5 mL
The recommended daily dose for children is 25 to 50 mg per kg of body weight in divided doses.
For pharyngitis in children over one year of age, kidney infections and skin infections and skin structures, the total daily dose can be divided and administered every 12 hours.
Antibiotics should only be taken under medical indication, as when used incorrectly they may end up harming the body. Learn more on What they are and how to take Antibiotics.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects that can occur with the use of Cephalexin are diarrhea, redness of the skin, urticaria, poor digestion, abdominal pain and gastritis.
Who should not use
This medication should not be used by people who are allergic to cephalosporins or to any component of the formula.
In addition, cephalosporin treatment is also not recommended in pregnant or lactating women unless recommended by a physician.
