Cefalexin Drops (Diacef) 100mg/ml Powder for Suspension Oral Drops 10ml

Here is a detailed overview of Cefalexin Drops (Diacef) 100mg/ml Powder for Suspension Oral Drops 10ml:

Product Description:

Cefalexin is an oral cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. Cefalexin Drops (Diacef) comes in the form of a 100mg/ml powder for oral suspension, packaged in 10ml bottles. Once reconstituted, this suspension is used to treat infections caused by susceptible gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Cefalexin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to the death of the bacteria.

Indications:

Cefalexin Drops (Diacef) is indicated for the treatment of various bacterial infections, including:

1. Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URIs):

   • Such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, and otitis media (middle ear infections).

2. Lower Respiratory Tract Infections:

   • Including bronchitis and pneumonia.

3. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):

   • Including cystitis and pyelonephritis.

4. Skin and Soft Tissue Infections:

   • Such as cellulitis, impetigo, and abscesses.

5. Bone and Joint Infections:

   • Such as osteomyelitis.

6. Dental Infections:

   • It can be used as part of the treatment for dental abscesses.

7. Prophylaxis for Bacterial Infections:

   • It can be used to prevent infections in patients undergoing certain types of surgery, particularly dental and surgical procedures.

Dosage and Administration:

Cefalexin Drops (Diacef) should be taken as directed by a healthcare professional. Dosage varies based on the age of the patient, the severity of the infection, and the specific condition being treated.

For Infants and Children:

• Usual Dose: 20–40 mg/kg/day, divided into 2-4 doses every 6-12 hours.

• The suspension should be given as directed based on weight and age.

For Adults:

• The typical dose is 250 mg every 6 hours, but the dose can range from 250 mg to 1g every 6-12 hours, depending on the infection's severity.

Note: The suspension should be shaken well before each dose, and the dose should be measured carefully using the provided dropper or syringe.

Side Effects:

Like all antibiotics, Cefalexin (Diacef) may cause side effects. These side effects may vary from mild to severe:

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain or discomfort

• Skin rash

• Fever

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis): Symptoms may include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat, difficulty breathing, and hives.

• Severe skin reactions: Including Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.

• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (C. difficile): Can result in severe diarrhea and colitis.

• Blood disorders: Such as neutropenia, leukopenia, or hemolytic anemia.

• Liver problems: Elevated liver enzymes, jaundice, and other signs of liver dysfunction.

• Kidney problems: Especially in patients with pre-existing kidney conditions.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Fatigue

• Vaginal yeast infections

Contraindications:

Cefalexin Drops (Diacef) should not be used in the following situations:

1. Hypersensitivity to Cefalexin or Other Cephalosporins:

   • It is contraindicated in patients with known allergy to cephalosporins, penicillin, or other beta-lactam antibiotics.

2. History of Severe Allergic Reactions:

   • If the patient has previously experienced anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions (e.g., hives, swelling, difficulty breathing) to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics, Cefalexin should not be used.

3. Severe Renal Impairment:

   • Use with caution or avoid in patients with severe renal insufficiency or renal failure, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.

4. Clostridium difficile Infection:

   • In patients with an active or history of Clostridium difficile infection, the use of Cefalexin may exacerbate the condition.

Precautions:

1. Allergic Reactions:

   • Cefalexin should be used with caution in patients with a history of penicillin allergy as there may be cross-reactivity between penicillin and cephalosporins.

2. Gastrointestinal Disorders:

   • Caution should be taken in patients with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis or C. difficile-associated diarrhea.

3. Renal Dysfunction:

   • Patients with renal impairment may require dosage adjustment due to the drug’s elimination via the kidneys.

4. Pregnancy and Lactation:

   • Cefalexin is categorized as Pregnancy Category B by the FDA, meaning it is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. However, it should only be used when clearly needed.

   • Cefalexin is excreted into breast milk in small amounts. It should be used cautiously in nursing mothers.

5. Prolonged Use:

   • Prolonged use of Cefalexin may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including yeast, leading to secondary infections.

Summary:

Cefalexin Drops (Diacef) is a cephalosporin antibiotic used for the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections, including respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and bone infections. It is particularly suitable for children in liquid form (oral drops) and should be dosed based on the patient’s weight and age.

The typical dosage for children is 20-40 mg/kg/day, divided into 2-4 doses. For adults, it is typically 250 mg every 6 hours. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and rashes, while more serious reactions include severe allergic reactions and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.

Cefalexin (Diacef) should be avoided in patients with a penicillin allergy and should be used with caution in those with renal impairment or gastrointestinal disorders. Always consult a healthcare professional before using this medication to ensure it is appropriate for the patient's condition.