Cephalexin Capsules

Description

Cephalexin Capsules are a prescription cephalosporin antibiotic that may be prescribed by veterinarians for dogs and cats with susceptible bacterial infections.

Cephalexin works by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis and is used when the veterinarian determines that the infection is susceptible to this antimicrobial.

Heartland offers Cephalexin Capsules in multiple strengths for veterinarian directed dosing. Brand, manufacturer, capsule appearance, packaging, and inactive ingredients may vary depending on product availability.

The specific dose, frequency, and duration of therapy should be determined by the prescribing veterinarian based on the individual animal and condition being managed.

Uses & Benefits

• Used for susceptible bacterial infections in dogs and cats
• Cephalosporin antimicrobial medication
• May be prescribed for certain skin and soft tissue infections
• May be used for other susceptible bacterial infections when prescribed by a veterinarian
• Oral capsule formulation for convenient administration
• Available in multiple strengths for individualized veterinarian directed dosing
• Brand and manufacturer may vary depending on availability

How It Works

Cephalexin is a first generation cephalosporin antibiotic.

It works by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis. Susceptible bacteria are unable to properly maintain their cell walls, resulting in antibacterial activity.

Appropriate antibiotic selection should be based on the veterinarian's evaluation of the individual animal, infection site, and suspected or identified bacteria.

Indications

Cephalexin Capsules may be prescribed by a veterinarian for dogs and cats with susceptible bacterial infections when cephalexin therapy is considered appropriate.

Depending on the specific product dispensed and the individual patient, veterinary use may be extra label. The veterinarian determines the appropriate indication, dose, frequency, and duration of treatment.

Use for any condition should occur only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients:

Cephalexin

Inactive Ingredients:

Inactive ingredients may vary by brand and manufacturer. Refer to the manufacturer label supplied with the dispensed medication for complete inactive ingredient information.

Directions

Administer orally exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian.

The appropriate dose, frequency, and duration of cephalexin therapy depend on the species, body weight, type and location of infection, response to treatment, and other individual factors.

Cephalexin may generally be administered with or without food. If gastrointestinal upset occurs when given on an empty stomach, ask your veterinarian whether administration with food is appropriate for your pet.

Weight / Dosage

Because this listing may be fulfilled with different manufacturers and veterinary use can vary according to the individual patient, follow the dosing instructions provided by the prescribing veterinarian rather than using a generalized dosing schedule.

Administer exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian. Follow the prescription label exactly and veterinarian directions. Do not adjust the dose, frequency, or duration of administration unless directed by your veterinarian.

Complete the prescribed course of antibiotic therapy unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to discontinue or change treatment.

Cautions

• Prescription required.
• Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian.
• Do not use in animals with a known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or other cephalosporin antibiotics.
• Use cautiously in animals with a history of sensitivity to penicillins or other beta lactam antibiotics.
• Allergic or hypersensitivity reactions may occur in sensitive animals.
• If a serious allergic reaction occurs, discontinue administration and seek veterinary care immediately.
• Antimicrobial medications should be used only as prescribed.
• Not for human use when dispensed pursuant to a veterinary prescription.
• Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Possible Side Effects

Cephalexin is generally well tolerated when administered according to veterinarian directions. Possible adverse effects may include:

• Vomiting / Diarrhea / Decreased appetite
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Increased salivation
• Lethargy

Hypersensitivity or allergic reactions may occur in animals sensitive to cephalosporins, penicillins, or related beta lactam antibiotics.

Contact your veterinarian promptly if your pet develops facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, significant changes in appetite or activity, unusual bleeding or bruising, or another unexpected reaction.

Precautions

Tell your veterinarian about all prescription medications, over the counter products, vitamins, and supplements your pet is receiving before beginning cephalexin.

Use cautiously in animals with known hypersensitivity to penicillins, cephalosporins, or other beta lactam antibiotics because cross sensitivity may occur.

Animals with impaired kidney function or other significant medical conditions should be appropriately evaluated by the veterinarian because dosage adjustments or additional monitoring may be necessary.

Safety during pregnancy, lactation, and breeding should be evaluated by the veterinarian before use.

Use antibiotics responsibly and only for the animal and condition for which they were prescribed.

Do not share prescription medication between animals or save unused antibiotics for future use unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian.

Storage

Storage requirements may vary by brand and manufacturer. Cephalexin capsules are generally stored at controlled room temperature in a tight, light resistant container. Protect from excessive heat and moisture. Follow the storage instructions on the prescription label and manufacturer packaging supplied with the medication. Keep securely stored out of reach of children and animals.

Disposal

Dispose of unused or expired Cephalexin Capsules according to applicable local medication disposal requirements.
Do not give unused prescription antibiotics to another animal or save leftover medication for future use unless specifically directed by your veterinarian.
Ask your veterinarian, pharmacist, or local medication take back program about appropriate disposal options.
Keep discarded medication securely out of reach of children and animals.