Dosage and Basic Indications for Cephalexin

Cephalexin should be used only for curing proven infections.

Be noted that the information below is subject to change without prior notice and is intended for general information only. This article is not intended to replace a Cephalexin leaflet; should you have any questions about how to take the drugs and which are the dosages recommended for you, consult a professional.

Dosage

The most common dosage recommended by physicians is 250 mg Cephalexin every six hours, for at least five days. That's 1 g per day, 5 g per treatment. However, these numbers can reach higher values, especially if the infection (or condition) threatens to have a systemic influence on your body. In this case, the dosage can be raised to as much as 4 g per day, in four equal doses.

For children, no more than 50 mg of Cephalexin per kg, per day, in four different doses are recommended by both generic and branded companies. However, in most cases, 25 mg per kg per day should suffice. Unless otherwise advised by your doctor, stick to these dosages, because in many situations higher doses can do more harm than good to your body.

Overdose

Just like with other antibiotics, it is considered overdose anything more than five times the normal dose. If you (or your kid) happen to take more than this, you need to see a doctor fast, as gastrointestinal decontamination may be needed. Symptoms of overdose include mainly vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, etc.

Indications

Cephalexin is recommended in the treatment of various infections, from respiratory and urinary conditions to skin, ear or bone infections. In general, the drug is prescribed to fight against streptococcus and staphylococcus infections, which can occur in any (or most) of the abovementioned cases.

To reduce the possibility of drug-resistant bacteria forming in your system, your doctor needs to be sure you have to take antibiotics. Cephalexin should be used only for curing proven infections. This way, it can both help your system and keep side effects to the minimum.