Cephalexin

CEPHALEXIN

Manufacturer: Bryant Ranch Prepack

Score: 142.0

Quick Summary

Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibacterial drug used for the treatment of various infections, including respiratory tract infections, otitis media, skin and skin structure infections, bone infections, and genitourinary tract infections. It is effective against a range of bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Escherichia coli. However, it is not active against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter spp., or Pseudomonas spp. The usual dose for adults is 250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours, while pediatric patients require 25-50 mg/kg/day in divided doses. Important safety information includes hypersensitivity reactions, Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, and potential interactions with metformin and probenecid. Special population considerations include use during pregnancy, nursing mothers, pediatric use, and geriatric use, with dose adjustments recommended for patients with renal impairment.

Key Clinical Findings and Indications

Respiratory tract infections
Otitis media
Skin and skin structure infections
Bone infections
Genitourinary tract infections

Important Safety Information

Warning

Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported with cephalexin use.

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or other cephalosporins

Adverse Reactions

Diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting
Dyspepsia
Abdominal pain

Dosing Recommendations

General Guidance

Dose adjustments recommended for patients with renal impairment, with creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min.

Respiratory tract infections

Adult Dose

250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours

Pediatric Dose

25-50 mg/kg/day in divided doses

Otitis media

Adult Dose

250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours

Pediatric Dose

75-100 mg/kg/day in divided doses

Special Population Considerations

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category B
Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed

Nursing Mothers

Cephalexin is excreted in human milk
Caution should be exercised when cephalexin is administered to a nursing woman

Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness established in pediatric patients
Recommended dose: 25-50 mg/kg/day in divided doses

Geriatric Use

No overall differences in safety or effectiveness observed between elderly and younger patients
Dose adjustments recommended for patients with renal impairment