Cephalexin (Monohydrate)
Also known as: Cephalexin, Cefalexin (Monohydrate)
Cephalexin is a first generation cephalosporin antibiotic. Cephalosporins are derivatives of 7-aminocephalosporic acid and are closely related to penicillin in structure. Cephalosporins have a six membered sulfur containing ring adjoining a ß lactam ring. Cephalexin is very active against gram positive cocci and used in a large variety of bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract, skin and urinary tract infections. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is achieved by taking the medication at regular interval of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. Cephalexin (Monohydrate) is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. If you discontinue the therapy, it may result in ineffective treatment.
Primary Characteristics
Cephalexin (Monohydrate) is also known as Cephalexin, Cefalexin (Monohydrate).
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Cephalosporin.
It belongs to Peptidoglycan synthesis inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antibiotic, Cephalosporin pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 365.4 · pKa: 5.3-7.3 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 100 · Solubility in Alcohol: almost insoluble · Non-proprietary name: Cephalexin (Monohydrate).
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Cephalexin (Monohydrate) has an oral bioavailability is 90% (±10%).
Distribution: Cephalexin (Monohydrate) has a volume of distribution is 15 litre. plasma protein binding is 6-15%.
Elimination: plasma half-life is 1hr, renal excretion is 91%.
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Indications
Cephalexin (Monohydrate) is primarily indicated in conditions like Bone and joint infection, Dental infections, Genitourinary tract infections, Otitis media, Respiratory tract infections, Schizophrenia and other psychoses, Skin infections, Soft tissue infections.
Contraindications
Cephalexin (Monohydrate) is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Cephalexin (Monohydrate)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 6 g | 6 g | Every 8h | IV | For sever infections. Frequency may be increased to 4 times/day if needed. |
| 125 g | 125 g | — | PO | Given at night for prophylaxis of urinary -tract infections. |
| 1.5 g | 1.5 g | Every 8h | PO,IV | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 25 – 100 mg/kg | — | Every 12h | Oral | For 5-12 Yrs of Children. To maximum of 4g individed doses. |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 7.812 mg/kg | 7.812 mg/kg | Every 8h | oral | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Cephalexin (Monohydrate) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hypersensitivity reactions , Angioedema , Vulvo vaginitis, Interstitial nephritis , Angioedema .
Cephalexin (Monohydrate) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Pseudomembranous colitis . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
Cephalexin (Monohydrate) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Anal pruritus, Diarrhea, dizziness, Genital moniliasis, Genital pruritus, GI disturbance, Headache, Nausea, Neutropenia, Skin reactions, Vaginal discharge, Vaginitis, Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Cephalexin (Monohydrate) may interfere in the diagnosis of False -ve urine glucose determinations.
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.1.3 — Cephalosporins
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Cephalexin (Monohydrate) in Pakistan: