What is Cephalexin sodium?
Cephalexin sodium, also known as Cefalexina in some countries, is a prescription antibiotic medication belonging to the cephalosporin class. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, ultimately leading to the death of susceptible bacteria. This broad-spectrum antibiotic is used to treat various infections caused by Gram-positive and mixed microbial flora, including pneumonia, skin and soft tissue infections, bone and joint infections, and urinary tract infections. Cephalexin sodium is typically administered orally in tablet or capsule form and is generally well-tolerated but may cause gastrointestinal side effects in some patients.
What is Cephalexin sodium used for?
Cephalexin sodium, also known as cefalexina or Cefasidin in some countries, is a semisynthetic cephalosporin antibiotic medication. It belongs to the first-generation cephalosporins and is commonly used for the treatment of various bacterial infections. The active ingredient cephalexin is a white or almost white crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water.
As a broad-spectrum antibiotic, cephalexin sodium has potent activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It works by inhibiting cell wall synthesis in bacteria, leading to the death of the bacterial cells. Cephalexin sodium is indicated for the treatment of acute bacterial infections such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, pneumonia, bronchitis, skin infections (cellulitis), and bone and joint infections. It may be used alone or in combination with other antibiotics depending on the severity and type of infection.
Cephalexin sodium is usually administered orally, typically 2-4 times a day for 7-14 days or longer, depending on the specific infection being treated. The medication is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and suspension, allowing healthcare providers to select the best formulation for their patients’ needs.
The pharmacokinetics of cephalexin sodium reveal that it is extensively absorbed after oral administration, reaching peak plasma concentrations within 1 hour. It is highly bound to human plasma proteins and has a relatively long half-life, lasting around 2-3 hours in healthy adults. This allows for once or twice daily dosing regimens in some cases.
Overall, cephalexin sodium has been widely used as an effective antibiotic for treating various bacterial infections in adults and children, with a favorable safety profile compared to other antibiotics in its class.
Cephalexin sodium side effects
- Abnormal liver function
- Allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching)
- Diarrhea or colitis
- Eosinophilia
- Epigastric distress
- Feeling of chest pain (myocardial infarction)
- Gastritis
- Increased bleeding tendency
- Increased urine production
- Leukocytosis
- Photosensitivity
- Seizures
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
- Vaginitis
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
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