Cephalexin
Mechanism :
Cephalexin is a semisynthetic cephalosporin antibiotic intended for oral administration. Cephalosporins are bactericidal because of their inhibition of cell-wall synthesis.
Indication :
- Tonsillitis
- Pyoderma
- Pyelonephritis
- Cystitis
- Subcutaneous abscess
- Dental infections
- Pneumonia
Contraindications :
Cephalexin is contraindicated in patients with known allergy to the cephalosporin group of antibiotics.
Dosing :
Mild infection:
25-50 PO mg/kg/24 hours in 3-4 divided doses for 5-10 days.
Severe infection:
50-100 PO mg/kg/24 hours in 3-4 divided doses for 5-10 days.
Adverse Effect :
Pseudomembranous colitis, dyspepsia, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, rash, urticaria, angioedema, pruritus, false positive urine glucose test, positive direct Coombs tests.
Interaction :
BCG vaccine, live: Decreases effects of BCG vaccine.
Typhoid vaccine, live: Decreases effects of typhoid vaccine.
Hepatic Dose :
No dosage adjustments are recommended.