Cephalexin is a widely used antibiotic in Australia, effective against various bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections, and more. To ensure safe and effective treatment, understanding the appropriate dosing regimen is essential. This blog post provides a comprehensive overview of cephalexin dosing guidelines for adults and children based on Australian clinical recommendations and product information.
Adult Dosage of Cephalexin in Australia
For adults, the typical dose of cephalexin ranges between 1 gram and 4 grams per day, divided into multiple doses. The most common dosing schedules include:
- 250 mg every 6 hours (four times daily) – this is the usual dose for many mild to moderate infections.
- 500 mg every 12 hours (twice daily) – often used for infections like streptococcal pharyngitis, tonsillitis, mild urinary tract infections, and skin infections.
For more severe infections or infections caused by less susceptible bacteria, higher doses up to 4 grams daily divided into two to four doses may be required. However, doses above 4 grams per day generally require intravenous or other parenteral cephalosporins.
Duration of Treatment
- The typical treatment duration ranges from 7 to 14 days, depending on the infection type and severity.
- For streptococcal infections (e.g., pharyngitis), a minimum of 10 days is recommended to prevent complications.
- For uncomplicated urinary tract infections, treatment may be shorter but should still be guided by a healthcare professional.
Pediatric Dosage of Cephalexin in Australia
For children, dosing is based on body weight:
- The usual daily dose is 25 to 50 mg/kg, divided into multiple doses (usually four times daily).
- For severe infections such as otitis media, doses may be increased to 75 to 100 mg/kg/day in divided doses.
- For streptococcal infections, treatment should last at least 10 days.
Cephalexin is available in oral suspension formulations to facilitate dosing in children.
Special Considerations
- Renal Impairment: Dose adjustments are necessary for patients with reduced kidney function. For example, patients with moderate to severe renal impairment require lower doses or extended dosing intervals to avoid toxicity.
- Taking with Food: Cephalexin can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
- Completing the Course: It is vital to complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve early, to ensure complete eradication of bacteria and prevent resistance.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double doses to make up for missed ones.
When to Consult a Doctor
- If symptoms do not improve within a few days of starting treatment.
- If you experience severe side effects such as allergic reactions, persistent diarrhea, or unusual symptoms.
- Before starting cephalexin if you have a history of allergies to penicillin or cephalosporins.
Summary
In Australia, cephalexin dosing for adults typically involves 250 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours, with total daily doses ranging from 1 to 4 grams depending on infection severity. Children’s doses are weight-based, usually 25 to 50 mg/kg/day divided into multiple doses. Proper adherence to dosing schedules and completing the full course are crucial for effective treatment and preventing antibiotic resistance.