Keftab

Keftab, known generically as cephalexin, is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic prescribed for the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections. It operates by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to the eradication of susceptible pathogens. This medication is commonly utilized for respiratory tract, skin, soft tissue, bone, and urinary tract infections, offering a reliable option for both clinicians and patients. Its well-established efficacy and favorable safety profile make it a staple in outpatient and inpatient settings alike.

Features

• Active ingredient: Cephalexin (as monohydrate)
• Drug class: First-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
• Available forms: Oral tablets and capsules in 250 mg, 500 mg, and 1 g strengths
• Mechanism of action: Bactericidal; inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis
• Spectrum: Effective against Gram-positive bacteria including Staphylococci and Streptococci, and some Gram-negative organisms
• Prescription status: Requires a valid medical prescription

Benefits

• Rapid onset of action helps alleviate infection symptoms quickly
• High bioavailability ensures consistent therapeutic blood levels
• Broad-spectrum coverage targets common outpatient bacterial pathogens
• Generally well-tolerated with a low incidence of severe adverse effects
• Convenient oral administration supports patient compliance
• Cost-effective compared to many newer antibiotics

Common use

Keftab (cephalexin) is indicated for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms, including:

• Respiratory tract infections such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and bronchitis
• Skin and skin structure infections including cellulitis and impetigo
• Bone and joint infections such as osteomyelitis
• Genitourinary tract infections including cystitis and prostatitis
• Otitis media (middle ear infection)

Dosage and direction

Dosage must be individualized based on the infection’s severity, causative organism, and the patient’s renal function. General adult dosing ranges from 250 mg to 1 g every 6 to 12 hours. For most infections, the typical adult dose is 250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours. For more severe infections, doses may be increased. Pediatric dosing is typically 25–50 mg/kg/day in divided doses. Administer with or without food; taking with food may minimize gastrointestinal upset. Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve earlier.

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis
• Renal impairment necessitates dosage adjustment; monitor renal function in at-risk patients
• Prolonged use may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms, including fungi
• Perform culture and susceptibility testing to guide therapy when appropriate
• Inform patients that diarrhea is a common side effect; advise them to contact their physician if it becomes severe or bloody

Contraindications

Keftab is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or any cephalosporin antibiotic. Cross-sensitivity with penicillins may occur; use with extreme caution in penicillin-allergic patients.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Dyspepsia
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue

Less common but serious side effects require immediate medical attention:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
• Hepatotoxicity (elevated liver enzymes, jaundice)
• Blood dyscrasias (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)
• Interstitial nephritis

Drug interaction

• Probenecid may decrease renal tubular secretion of cephalexin, increasing its blood levels
• Concurrent use with other nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides, loop diuretics) may increase the risk of renal toxicity
• Cephalexin may potentiate the effects of oral anticoagulants, increasing bleeding risk
• False-positive reactions for glucose in the urine may occur with Benedict’s or Fehling’s solutions

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and hematuria. Management is supportive; gastric lavage may be beneficial if performed soon after ingestion. Hemodialysis may aid in removal of the drug.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15–30°C or 59–86°F) in a tightly closed container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Reviews

(Compilation of anonymized, aggregated feedback from clinical use and patient reports)

“Prescribed Keftab for a stubborn skin infection—saw improvement within 48 hours. Completed the course with no side effects.” – Patient, 42

“Used cephalexin for recurrent UTIs. Effective and affordable, though mild GI discomfort was noted.” – Patient, 35

“As a clinician, I find Keftab reliable for uncomplicated soft tissue infections. Good patient tolerance overall.” – Physician

“Took for strep throat. Symptoms resolved quickly, but experienced mild diarrhea which subsided after treatment.” – Patient, 28