Cephalexin in Keflex is used for bone infections. The drug is used for skin lesions, pharyngitis, and urinary tract infections. It refers to first-generation cephalosporins with a pronounced antibacterial effect. Recommended for all ages, the dosage is selected by a doctor. Used to restore health.
no RX
Dosage | Package | Per Item | Per Pack | Order |
250 mg |
|
||||||||||||
500 mg |
|
The drug is known under the trade name Keflex. This designation is fixed in pharmaceutical registries and is actively used to identify the drug in pharmacy chains, medical institutions and among health professionals. The drug has gained popularity due to its effectiveness in the fight against bacterial infections that require a reliable antibacterial effect. The name was chosen by the manufacturers to emphasize its belonging to a certain group of antibiotics, distinguishing it from other means with similar properties.
The international nonproprietary name of this medicine is cephalexin. This term is accepted by the international community to designate the active substance that provides the therapeutic effect. Cephalexin belongs to the first-generation cephalosporins, known for their ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria. The name is standardized by the World Health Organization, which allows to unify the prescription and production of this drug in different regions of the world.
The medication is available in several forms, which makes it convenient for use depending on the age of the patient and the specifics of treatment. The main options include:
Each form is designed with specific use in mind: capsules and tablets are suitable for outpatient treatment, while suspension is convenient for children or patients with difficulty swallowing solid forms. The choice of form is determined by the doctor depending on the nature of the infection.
The main active substance is cephalexin, an antibiotic from the group of first-generation cephalosporins. Auxiliary components depend on the form of release. In capsules, the following are used:
The tablets add croscarmellose sodium as a disintegrant and a film coating of hypromellose. The suspension contains sucrose for taste enhancement, flavorings (e.g., strawberry) and xanthan gum as a thickener. The formulation is balanced to ensure stability and efficacy.
Keflex has bactericidal action by disrupting the synthesis of peptidoglycan in the cell wall of bacteria. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins, preventing the formation of a strong structure, which leads to lysis of microorganisms under the influence of osmotic pressure. The drug is active against Gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus (including penicillinase-producing strains), Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes, as well as some Gram-negative pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Proteus mirabilis.
The mechanism of action provides rapid killing of susceptible bacteria, making the drug effective in acute infections. It demonstrates moderate resistance to beta-lactamases, which increases its value in cases where other antibiotics may be less effective. The effect occurs soon after the therapeutic concentration is reached, allowing control of the infectious process.
After oral administration, the active substance is absorbed in the upper gastrointestinal tract, predominantly in the small intestine. The maximum concentration in plasma is reached in 1-2 hours. Bioavailability is about 90-95%, which provides high efficacy of the oral form. Meal intake slightly slows down absorption, but does not reduce the total absorption, which allows taking the drug independently of meals.
The component is well distributed in the body, penetrating the skin, lungs, bones, urinary tract and soft tissues. Binding to plasma proteins is about 10-15%, which contributes to the free distribution of the active substance to the foci of infection. Concentration in urine significantly exceeds the minimum inhibitory concentration for most pathogens, which makes the drug particularly useful in infections of the urinary system.
Metabolism is minimal: more than 90% of the dose taken remains unchanged. A minor part undergoes metabolic transformations in the liver with the formation of inactive metabolites, which reduces the load on this organ.
It is excreted predominantly through the kidneys (about 90-100% in unchanged form) by tubular filtration and tubule secretion. The elimination half-life is 0.5-1.2 hours in patients with normal renal function, but may increase in patients with impaired excretion. High concentrations in urine persist for 6-8 hours after administration.
Keflex is indicated for the treatment of infections caused by sensitive microorganisms:
The drug is often used in infections caused by staphylococci or streptococci, especially in cases of allergy to penicillins. Prescribing requires confirmation of the sensitivity of the pathogen.
The use of Keflex is prohibited in:
Cautiously prescribe in colitis, blood coagulation disorders or allergic history.
Capsules and tablets are taken orally, drinking enough water (150-200 ml), regardless of meals. Suspension is prepared by adding water to the mark on the bottle, shake before each use. Patients are advised to avoid lying down immediately after administration to prevent esophageal irritation.
Dosage is determined by the nature of the infection:
In renal failure:
Hepatic insufficiency does not require correction.
Unwanted reactions may include:
In case of serious manifestations, discontinue use and consult a physician.
Exceeding the dose is manifested by nausea, vomiting, convulsions, confusion.
In overdose:
The medication may:
Alcohol does not affect directly, but may worsen the condition in infection. Food has no significant effect on absorption.
Keflex is acceptable in pregnancy for strict indications (category B). Penetrates into milk, lactation is suspended.
Faintness or dizziness may affect the ability to drive machinery.
The elderly require monitoring of renal function. In children the drug is safe taking into account the dosage by weight.