Indications & Uses
Pharmacology
Cephalexin is a semisynthetic analogue of Cephalosporin C. It kills bacteria by interfering with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. Peptidoglycan is a heteropolymeric structure that gives the cell wall its mechanical stability. In the final stage of peptidoglycan synthesis, cross-linking is completed as the terminal glycine residue of the pentaglycine bridge is linked to the fourth residue of the pentapeptide (d-alanine). The transpeptidase enzyme that carries out this step is inhibited by penicillins and cephalosporins. This weakens the bacterial cell wall, causing the cell to swell and eventually rupture. Cephalexin is a first generation cephalosporin that is active when taken by mouth.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
Adult: The usual dose is 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 hours. For skin and soft tissue infections, streptococcal pharyngitis and uncomplicated cystitis, in patients over 15 years of age, 500 mg of the drug may be given every 12 hours. In severe or deep seated infections the dose can be increased up to 3 g to 6 g daily.
Children: The dosage range is 25 to 100 mg/kg/day in divided doses, up to a maximum of 4 g daily.
Recommended dose by children's weight: for 10 kg (22 lbs), 62.5 mg to 125 mg four times daily, or 125 mg to 250 mg twice daily. For 20 kg (44 lbs), 125 mg to 250 mg four times daily, or 250 mg to 500 mg twice daily. For 40 kg (88 lbs), 250 mg to 500 mg four times daily, or 500 mg to 1 g twice daily.
For streptococcal pharyngitis, skin and soft tissue infections, and in patients over 1 year of age, the total daily dose may be divided and given every 12 hours. In the treatment of otitis media, 75 to 100 mg/kg/day in four divided doses may be required. In the treatment of beta haemolytic streptococcal infections, the therapeutic dose of the drug should be given for at least 10 days.
Side Effects
Common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort. Symptoms of pseudomembranous colitis may appear either during or after treatment with the antibiotic. Skin rash, angio oedema, a rise in serum aminotransferases, eosinophilia and neutropenia have been reported very rarely. Treatment may also be followed by superinfection with resistant micro organisms, particularly candida.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Cefalexin should be used cautiously in patients with impaired kidney function. In such cases, patients should be observed carefully, as the safe dose of cefalexin for them may be lower than the usual recommended dose. Cefalexin can cause a false-positive urine glucose reading when tested with copper reduction reagents. Positive Coombs' test results have also been reported with cefalexin use. Although animal studies have shown no evidence that cefalexin causes birth defects, it may be used during pregnancy if considered essential. Because cefalexin passes into breast milk, it should be given to nursing mothers with caution.
Contraindications
Cephalen should not be used in anyone who is known to be hypersensitive to cephalosporin-class antibiotics.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Pregnancy Category B. Cefalexin can be used in pregnancy when your doctor feels it is clearly needed. It also passes into breast milk, so it should be used with caution in nursing mothers.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Storage
Keep Cephalexin in a cool, dry place.
Drug Interactions
Common questions about Ceporin DT 250 250 mg
What is Ceporin DT 250 250 mg Tablet?
Ceporin DT 250 250 mg Tablet is a medicine that contains Cephalexin. It is made by Square Pharmaceuticals PLC, Gazipur. It belongs to the First generation cephalosporins group of medicines.
What is Ceporin DT 250 used for?
Ceporin DT 250 is used for: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Bronchitis, Sinusitis, Pharyngitis, Tonsillitis, Bacterial Infection, Urinary Tract Infection, Respiratory Tract Infection, Skin and Soft Tissue Infection, Otitis Media.
What are the side effects of Ceporin DT 250?
Common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort. Symptoms of pseudomembranous colitis may appear either during or after treatment with the antibiotic.
Can I take Ceporin DT 250 during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Pregnancy Category B. Cefalexin can be used in pregnancy when your doctor feels it is clearly needed. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
How should I store Ceporin DT 250?
Keep Cephalexin in a cool, dry place.
Can I take other medicines with Ceporin DT 250?
Some medicines can interact with Cephalexin, for example: Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take.
Do I need a prescription for Ceporin DT 250?
Ceporin DT 250 is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.