Cefalexin 500mg capsule is a prescription-only oral antibiotic, belonging to the first-generation cephalosporin class. Each capsule contains 500 mg cefalexin (as monohydrate), a broad-spectrum agent effective against many common Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria. It works by interfering with the building of bacterial cell walls, causing the bacteria to rupture and die, thereby clearing the infection. It is widely used as a first-choice treatment, especially for skin and soft-tissue infections, and is well-tolerated by most patients, including children and the elderly.
🧪 Composition & Appearance
- Active ingredient: 500 mg cefalexin per capsule
- Form: Hard gelatin capsule; typically white, yellow, or orange/red and white; filled with white or pale yellow crystalline powder
- Excipients: Lactose, maize starch, magnesium stearate; capsule shell may contain dyes/gelatin
- Note: Swallow whole; do not crush or chew
🎯 Main Uses
Treats mild-to-moderate bacterial infections, including:
- Skin & soft tissue: abscesses, cellulitis, wounds, boils, impetigo
- Respiratory: tonsillitis, pharyngitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, mild pneumonia
- Ear: middle ear infection (otitis media)
- Urinary tract: bladder and kidney infections
- Bone & joint: osteomyelitis, joint infections
- Dental: severe gum or tooth infections Does NOT work for colds, flu, or viral infections.
⚙️ Dosage & Administration
- Adults & children ≥12 years / ≥40 kg: Standard: 1 capsule (500 mg) every 6 to 12 hours
- Common routine: 500 mg 2 or 3 times daily
- Severe infections: up to 1 g every 6 hours (max 4 g per day)
- Children <12 years: Use suspension form; dosed by weight (25–50 mg/kg/day, divided doses)
- Can be taken with or without food
- Course length: usually 5–7 days (7–14 days for bone/joint infections); finish full course even if symptoms disappear to prevent resistance
⚠️ Side Effects
Most mild and short-lived:
- Common: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, indigestion, headache, dizziness, or oral/vaginal thrush
- Less common: fatigue, skin rash, or temporary changes in blood tests
- ⚠️ WARNING:
- DO NOT TAKE if allergic to cephalosporin antibiotics; use caution if allergic to penicillin (cross-allergy risk ~5–10%)
- Signs of severe reaction: hives, swelling of face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing → seek emergency medical help immediately
- Rare: severe diarrhea, kidney effects, or blood disorders
📌 Important Notes
- Good alternative to penicillins (like amoxicillin) for patients with mild penicillin allergy
- Safe for use in pregnancy and breastfeeding when prescribed
- May reduce effectiveness of birth control pills → use extra protection
- Caution in patients with kidney problems (dose adjustment may be needed)
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight
Product Code: cefacaps
Product Condition : New