Keflex capsules are an effective oral medication that belongs to the cephalosporin antibiotic family. They contain the active ingredient cephalexin, a first-generation antibiotic in this group. Cephalexin works by interfering with the formation of the bacterial cell wall, an essential structure for bacterial protection and growth. By inhibiting this process, the cell wall becomes weak and unstable, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death. Cephalexin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, meaning it is effective against a wide variety of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria that cause various types of infections in various parts of the body. Keflex is used to treat bacterial infections that are sensitive to cephalexin and should only be used under the prescription of a specialist after a thorough diagnosis of the bacterial infection.
The active ingredient in Keflex capsules
Keflex capsules contain the following active ingredient, which is the basis of its therapeutic effect as an antibiotic:
Cephalexin: A semi-synthetic antibiotic derived from cephalosporin. It is a first-generation cephalosporin and is effective against many Gram-positive bacteria, such as staphylococci and streptococci, as well as some Gram-negative bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis. Cephalexin works by binding to specific enzymes called penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), located within the bacterial cell wall. These enzymes are essential for the synthesis of peptidoglycan, a key component of the bacterial cell wall. By inhibiting these enzymes, Cephalexin impedes cell wall formation, leading to cell wall weakness and bacterial death. Available Strengths
Keflex capsules are available in various strengths of cephalexin to meet different patient needs, the type and severity of infections, as well as the patient's weight and age (especially in children).
Common strengths of Keflex capsules available on the market include:
250 mg: This dosage is often used for mild to moderate infections, or in some cases in children.
500 mg: This dosage is more common for treating moderate to severe infections in adults and adolescents.
The capsules are usually taken whole orally with a sufficient amount of water. Keflex can be taken with or without food, but your doctor may recommend taking it with food to reduce the possibility of stomach upset. The frequency of administration and the specific dosage depend on the type of infection, its location, and severity, the patient's response to treatment, as well as other factors determined by your doctor. The dosage may range from one to four times daily, and the treatment course usually lasts for several days (usually 7 to 14 days). It is essential to strictly follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment.
Indications for use of keflex Capsules
keflex Capsules are used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections caused by microorganisms sensitive to cephalexin, including:
Upper respiratory tract infections: such as strep throat (strep throat), tonsillitis, and otitis media.
Lower respiratory tract infections: such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
Skin and soft tissue infections: such as boils, abscesses, cellulitis, and wound infections.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs): such as cystitis and kidney infections.
Bone and joint infections (osteomyelitis and septic arthritis).
Prophylaxis of bacterial endocarditis in certain at-risk patients prior to dental or surgical procedures.
Drug interactions for Keflex Capsules
Cephalexin is generally considered relatively safe, but some drug interactions may occur with other medications. Therefore, it is important to fully inform your physician of all medications and supplements you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, herbal products, vitamins, and minerals, before starting and throughout the treatment period. Some potential drug interactions include:
Probenecid: A medication used to treat gout, which may increase blood levels of cephalexin by reducing its renal excretion. This effect may be beneficial in some cases, but should be monitored by a physician.
Loop diuretics such as furosemide: Concomitant use may increase the risk of kidney toxicity, although this interaction is considered rare.
Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: These may reduce the absorption of cephalexin if taken at the same time. It is recommended to take antacids two hours before or two hours after taking cephalexin. Methotrexate: A drug used to treat cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. Cephalexin may increase blood levels of methotrexate, which may increase the risk of methotrexate side effects.