Cefalexin + Probenecid
Uses of Cefalexin + Probenecid
- Cephalexin + Probenecid is primarily used in the management of susceptible bacterial infections and belongs to the group of cephalosporin antibiotics and uricosuric agents.
- This combination is indicated for various types of infections including respiratory tract infections (bronchitis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, pharyngitis), skin and soft tissue infections, bone and joint infections, urinary tract infections (cystitis and prostatitis), and dental infections.
Side effects of Cefalexin + Probenecid
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Headache
How Cefalexin + Probenecid works
- Cefalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. This is achieved by binding to and inactivating certain proteins (penicillin-binding proteins) crucial for building the bacterial cell wall. When these proteins fail, the cell wall formation gets disrupted, resulting in the death of the bacteria.
- Probenecid is a uricosuric agent that plays a supporting role in this combination. It inhibits the function of certain channels in the kidneys responsible for excreting cefalexin from the body. This allows more cefalexin to remain in the body for longer, thereby increasing its effectiveness without needing to increase its dosage.
- Together, Cephalexin + Probenecid provide a potent defence against susceptible bacterial infections.
Certified content
Written By
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
Reviewed By
Doctor of Medicine
Expert Advice
Dosage forms available
- Cephalexin + Probenecid is available as oral tablets to be taken by mouth.
Age and dose restrictions
- This medication is intended for use in adults and children of age above 12 years based on body weight and clinical assessment.
Contraindications
- Individuals with known hypersensitivity to cephalosporin antibiotics, penicillins or probenecid should not take Cephalexin + Probenecid.
- It is also contraindicated in patients diagnosed with carcinoid syndrome.
Other medications to avoid
- Cephalexin + Probenecid may interact with NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and naproxen), aminoglycosides (like gentamicin and amikacin), tetracyclines (such as doxycycline and minocycline), macrolides (like erythromycin and azithromycin).
Overdose and missed dose
- Overdose of Cephalexin + Probenecid may result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress and diarrhoea. Immediate medical attention should be sought in such cases.
- If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, if it is already time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped to prevent potential overdose.
Management of side effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
- Drinking plenty of water can reduce potential gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhoea or nausea.
- Ensuring ample rest may help manage fatigue or dizziness.
Use in driving and operating machinery
- As some people may experience dizziness or fatigue, caution is advised when driving or operating heavy machinery after taking Cephalexin + Probenecid.
Use in pregnancy and lactation
- It is recommended to consult a doctor before using this medication during these periods.
Caution in other conditions
- Patients with kidney impairment should exercise caution and may require dose adjustments when taking Cephalexin + Probenecid.
- Persistent diarrhoea may be a sign of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea, and the medicine should be discontinued and a doctor consulted.
Special dietary and lifestyle recommendations
- Maintaining good personal hygiene can help prevent further bacterial infections.
- Regular hand washing can help reduce the risk of spreading infection to others.
- It's recommended to avoid close contact with others who have bacterial infections, if possible.
- A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support the immune system in fighting off infections.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cephalexin + Probenecid a steroid?
No, Cephalexin + Probenecid is not a steroid. It is a combination of two active ingredients Cefalexin, a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, and Probenecid, a uricosuric agent.
Does the Cephalexin + Probenecid have any effect on sleep?
Cephalexin + Probenecid is not associated with affecting sleep. However, if you have any concerns about this, you should discuss them with your doctor.
Will Cephalexin + Probenecid affect fertility?
Cephalexin + Probenecid is not directly associated with affecting fertility. However, if you are planning to conceive, you should discuss this with your doctor.
Is it safe to take Cephalexin + Probenecid daily?
The safety of daily consumption of Cephalexin + Probenecid depends on the duration and dosage prescribed by your doctor. The medicine is taken as advised by your doctor based on the type and severity of the infection.
How much time does Cephalexin + Probenecid take to work?
Cefalexin, one of the components of the combination, reaches peak levels in the body 1-2 hours after an oral dose. The time it takes to start working can vary depending on the type of infection and individual patient factors.
What is the best time to take Cephalexin + Probenecid?
Cephalexin + Probenecid can be taken with or without food. The best time to take this medicine would be as prescribed by your doctor, usually every 12 hours.
What are the alternative salts similar to Cephalexin + Probenecid?
It is best to consult your doctor for alternatives to Cephalexin + Probenecid as different salts may work differently and their effect on your condition would depend on various factors like the severity and type of infection.
Cefalexin + Probenecid in other salts
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