CEPSTAR 600 TABLETS (Each tablet contains Cephalaxin 600mg
CEPHALAXIN
What it does
Cephalexin is an antibiotic that helps treat bacterial infections.
Commonly used for: bacterial infections, skin infections, respiratory infections (like pneumonia), ear infections (otitis media) …
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Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:37:11 · updated 2026-10-20 04:00:09
About this medicine
Cephalexin is an antibiotic that helps treat bacterial infections.
What it treats
- bacterial infections
- skin infections
- respiratory infections (like pneumonia)
- ear infections (otitis media)
- bone infections (osteomyelitis)
How it works
It works by stopping the growth of bacteria, helping the body to fight off the infection.
Who it's for
It is used for people of all ages who have certain types of bacterial infections.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: cephalaxin
Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is effective against gram-positive bacteria and some gram-negative bacteria. Cephalexin is commonly utilized in the treatment of skin infections, respiratory tract infections, and urinary tract infections. It is administered orally and is well-absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.
Indications
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Respiratory tract infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Bone infections
- Otitis media
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific paediatric dosing recommendations based on the child's age and weight.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific adult dosing recommendations based on the type and severity of the infection.
Mechanism of action
Cephalexin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, which prevents cross-linking of peptidoglycan layers. This action leads to cell lysis and death of the bacteria, making it effective against susceptible organisms.
Pharmacodynamics
Cephalexin exhibits time-dependent bactericidal activity. Its effectiveness is influenced by the time that the drug concentration remains above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for the target bacteria. The drug is generally more effective against rapidly dividing bacteria, as they are more reliant on cell wall synthesis.
Pharmacokinetics
Cephalexin is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 1 hour post-dose. It has a bioavailability of around 90%. The drug is widely distributed throughout the body, including in bone and respiratory secretions. It is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine, with a half-life of about 0.5 to 1 hour in individuals with normal renal function. Dose adjustment is necessary in patients with renal impairment.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to cephalexin or other cephalosporins
- History of severe allergic reactions to penicillins
Adverse effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Rash
- Allergic reactions
- Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
Interactions
- Probenecid may increase cephalexin levels
- Increased risk of nephrotoxicity when used with aminoglycosides
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
- Monitor for signs of pseudomembranous colitis
- Assess for history of allergies, particularly to beta-lactam antibiotics
Pregnancy
Cephalexin is classified as Category B. Animal studies have not shown any risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
Breast-feeding
Cephalexin is excreted in breast milk. Caution should be exercised when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Capsules
- Tablets
- Oral suspension
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.