See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Cephalexin
What is cephalexin, and what is it used for?
Cephalexin is an oral antibiotic in the cephalosporin class. It’s commonly used to treat bacterial infections such as skin and soft-tissue infections and infections of the respiratory tract, when the cause is susceptible bacteria.
What types of cephalexin are available?
Cephalexin is typically prescribed as tablets or oral capsules for adults, and as liquid suspension for children or people who can’t take pills. The dose and schedule depend on the infection being treated and the patient’s age and kidney function.
What are typical dosing and how is it taken?
Cephalexin is usually taken several times per day, and the exact regimen depends on the specific infection and prescribing instructions. Finishing the full course is important even if symptoms improve early. Patients are also advised to follow instructions about taking it with food or spacing doses evenly across the day, if recommended by their clinician.
What side effects are people most likely to notice?
Common side effects can include gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Allergic reactions (for example, rash or hives) can occur in some people. Seek urgent care for signs of a severe allergic reaction such as trouble breathing or swelling of the face and throat.
When should cephalexin be avoided or used with caution?
Cephalexin should be used cautiously in people with a history of serious allergy to cephalosporin antibiotics. Kidney impairment can also require dose adjustment, because cephalexin is cleared through the kidneys. People with a history of antibiotic-associated colitis or severe diarrhea after antibiotics should inform their prescriber.
Drug interactions: what to watch for?
Tell your clinician about all medications and supplements you take. Cephalexin can interact with certain lab tests and, in some cases, with other drugs that affect bleeding risk. If you’re taking warfarin or other anticoagulants, your prescriber may monitor you more closely.
When to contact a clinician urgently
Contact a clinician right away or get emergency care if you develop:
- Hives, facial swelling, or breathing trouble
- Severe or persistent diarrhea, especially if it’s watery or contains blood
- Rash with fever or blistering
- No improvement after starting treatment, or symptoms worsening
Is cephalexin under patent or available as generics?
Cephalexin is widely available as an older, generic antibiotic in many markets. DrugPatentWatch.com can help check specific brand-to-patent status in jurisdictions and track related patent information: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
Sources
- https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/