Cephalexin – What It Is and When to Use It

Cephalexin is a penicillin‑like antibiotic that fights bacterial infections. Doctors often prescribe it for skin infections, ear infections, throat infections, and urinary tract infections. It works by stopping bacteria from building their cell walls, so the bugs die off quickly. If you’ve been told to take cephalexin, it’s usually because the infection is caused by bacteria that respond well to this drug.

How to Take Cephalexin: Dosage Tips

Most adults take 250 mg to 1 g every 6 to 12 hours, depending on how severe the infection is. For kids, the dose is based on weight – typically 25 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, split into two or three doses. Always follow the doctor’s instructions; skipping doses can let the infection bounce back. Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water and take them at the same times each day to keep the level steady in your body.

Side Effects and Interactions You Should Know

Common side effects include mild stomach upset, diarrhea, and occasional rash. If you notice severe itching, swelling, or trouble breathing, stop the medication and seek help right away – those could be signs of an allergic reaction. Cephalexin can interact with blood thinners like warfarin, making clotting times longer, so let your doctor know about any other meds you take. Alcohol doesn’t directly affect cephalexin, but drinking a lot can worsen stomach issues.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should double‑check with their doctor before starting cephalexin. The drug is generally considered safe, but it’s best to confirm that the benefits outweigh any small risks.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one. Don’t double up – that can increase side‑effect chances. Finish the entire prescription even if you feel better; stopping early can let the infection hide and become resistant.

When you get your prescription, you’ll need a legitimate pharmacy to fill it. Look for licensed online pharmacies that require a prescription, show a physical address, and have a pharmacist available for questions. Avoid sites that offer “no‑prescription” sales or prices that seem too good to be true – those often sell counterfeit meds.

To verify a pharmacy, check if it’s registered with your country’s health authority, read customer reviews, and make sure the website uses secure https connections. Some reputable pharmacies also provide a “pharmacy verification” badge you can click to see their credentials.

Before ordering, have your prescription ready, know the strength (e.g., 500 mg tablets), and compare a few reputable sites for price and shipping time. Many pharmacies will ask for a photo of the prescription; keep it handy to avoid delays.

Storing cephalexin is simple – keep it at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. If you have a liquid form, shake the bottle well before each dose and discard any leftovers after 14 days.

In short, cephalexin is a reliable antibiotic when used correctly. Take it exactly as prescribed, watch for side effects, and buy it only from trusted pharmacies. Doing these things helps you clear the infection fast and stay safe.