Cephalexin
Brands: Keflex, Rilexine
Cephalexin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections in pets.
Used for
- skin infections
- urinary tract infections
- respiratory tract infections
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- every 8-12 hours
- Duration
- typically 7-14 days
- Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture and sunlight.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 10-15 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
dog
- Large dogs
- 10-15 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Small dogs
- 10-15 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Medium dogs
- 10-15 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Cephalexin
Side effects
Common
- diarrhea
- vomiting
Rare
- allergic reactions
Severe
- severe allergic reactions requiring vet attention
Do not use when
- allergy to cephalosporins
- allergy to penicillins
Interacts with
- aminoglycosides
- anti-inflammatory drugs
Warnings
- Not for use in animals with cephalosporin allergy
- Caution in pregnant or lactating animals
Cephalexin questions
Can Cephalexin treat viral infections?
No, Cephalexin is only effective against bacterial infections.
Is a prescription required?
Yes, Cephalexin is a prescription medication.
What if I miss a dose?
Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's close to the next dose.
Can it be given with food?
Yes, administering with food can minimize stomach upset.
What are signs of an overdose?
Look for symptoms like severe vomiting or diarrhea and contact your vet.
Full drug detail
Overview
Cephalexin is a widely used antibiotic in veterinary medicine, primarily prescribed for dogs and cats to combat a range of bacterial infections. It belongs to the cephalosporin class, known for its effectiveness against gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria.
How It Works
Cephalexin works by interfering with the formation of the bacteria's cell wall, ultimately causing the cell to rupture and die. This action helps eliminate the infection and prevent its spread.
Uses & Indications
Cephalexin is commonly prescribed for:
- Skin infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Respiratory tract infections
- Bone infections
Dosage Guidelines
Dosage varies based on the animal's weight and the severity of the infection.
- Dogs:
- Small: 10-15 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Medium: 10-15 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Large: 10-15 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Cats:
- Standard: 10-15 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
Administration
Cephalexin is administered orally, usually in tablet or capsule form.
Side Effects
Common
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Rare
- Allergic reactions (e.g., rash)
Severe
- Severe allergic reactions requiring immediate veterinary attention
Precautions & Warnings
- Cephalexin should not be used in animals with a known allergy to cephalosporins or penicillins.
- Use with caution in pregnant or lactating animals.
Drug Interactions
- Avoid use with certain antibiotics like aminoglycosides.
- Interactions may occur with anti-inflammatory drugs.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
FAQ
- Can Cephalexin treat viral infections? No, Cephalexin is only effective against bacterial infections.
- Is a prescription required? Yes, Cephalexin is a prescription medication.
- What if I miss a dose? Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's close to the next dose.
- Can it be given with food? Yes, administering with food can minimize stomach upset.
- What are signs of an overdose? Look for symptoms like severe vomiting or diarrhea and contact your vet.