Keftab
Keftab
- In our pharmacy, you can buy Keftab without a prescription, with delivery throughout United States and other regions. Discreet and anonymous packaging.
- Keftab is used to treat respiratory, skin, and urinary tract infections caused by bacteria. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis as a beta-lactam antibiotic.
- The usual dosage is 250-500mg every 6-12 hours for adults or 25-50mg/kg/day divided every 6-12 hours for children.
- Administered orally via tablets, capsules (250mg, 500mg, 1g), or suspension (125mg/5mL, 250mg/5mL).
- Starts working within 1-2 hours after administration.
- Duration of action is maintained through dosing every 6-12 hours. Full courses typically last 7-14 days.
- Avoid alcohol as it may cause side effects like nausea and diarrhea.
- The most common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort.
- Would you like to try Keftab without a prescription for trusted bacterial infection relief?
Basic Keftab Information
| Information Type | Details |
|---|---|
| International Nonproprietary Name (INN) | Cephalexin |
| UK Brand Names | Keflex®, Ceporex® (Note: Keftab brand used in US/emerging markets) |
| ATC Classification Code | J01DB01 (First-generation cephalosporin antibiotic) |
| Available Forms |
• Tablets: 250mg, 500mg • Oral suspension: 125mg/5mL, 250mg/5mL |
| UK Manufacturers | Sandoz, Aspire Pharma, Accord UK |
| Regulatory Status | EMA-approved; MHRA UK authorization (PL 04416/0500) |
| Prescription Classification | Prescription-only Medication (POM) |
In the United Kingdom, antibiotics like cephalexin require a prescription and are unavailable over the counter. Cephalexin tablets and oral suspension are the only formulations available, with leading manufacturers supplying the UK market under established brand names. This essential information helps patients understand the pharmaceutical profile of this bactericidal agent.
Pharmacology Of Cephalexin
Mechanism Of Action
Cephalexin works by disrupting bacterial cell wall formation. It specifically binds to penicillin-binding proteins in susceptible bacteria, creating structural weaknesses that cause cell rupture and death. This bactericidal mechanism proves particularly effective against Gram-positive bacteria like Streptococcus and Staphylococcus species.
Pharmacokinetic Profile
Following oral administration, cephalexin reaches peak plasma concentrations within approximately 60 minutes. It undergoes minimal metabolism in the liver, with over 90% excreted unchanged by the kidneys. The typical elimination half-life ranges from 30 to 72 minutes in adults with normal renal function.
Drug Interactions
- Warfarin: Potentiates anticoagulant effect (increased bleeding risk)
- Metformin: Elevated toxicity potential (monitor blood glucose)
- Probenecid: Reduces cephalexin elimination (increased concentrations)
Food And Alcohol Considerations
While cephalexin can be taken without food restrictions, consuming it with meals may slightly delay absorption. Avoid alcohol entirely during cephalexin therapy, as it intensifies gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and stomach discomfort.
Indications For Keftab In The UK
Authorised Clinical Uses
UK regulatory authorities approve cephalexin for infections caused by susceptible organisms. Key indications include streptococcal respiratory infections like pharyngitis, uncomplicated urinary tract infections (cystitis), and skin/soft tissue infections including cellulitis. Consultation with current clinical guidelines helps determine appropriate therapy selection.
Special Population Considerations
Healthcare providers may prescribe cephalexin for children over one year using weight-adjusted doses. For pregnant patients, cephalexin carries a Category B classification, indicating no documented fetal risk in limited human studies, but definitive safety data remains incomplete. Elderly patients require renal function monitoring before and during therapy.
Off-Label Applications
According to UK clinical guidelines, cephalexin serves as an alternative for penicillin-allergic patients requiring antibiotic prophylaxis before dental procedures. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence also recognizes its use for mastitis treatment during breastfeeding when clinically appropriate.
Cephalexin Dosage and Administration Guidelines
Cephalexin dosing requires customization based on infection type and severity.
| Condition | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncomplicated UTI | 500mg | Twice daily | 7 days |
| Skin infections | 500mg | Four times daily | 14 days |
| Strep throat | 250mg | Four times daily | 10 days |
Children need weight-based calculations for Keftab dosing. Standard paediatric doses start at 25mg per kilogram daily, administered in divided doses every 6-12 hours. The maximum daily amount should not exceed 1g regardless of weight.
Suspension preparation requires careful attention. Shake the bottle vigorously before each use. Always use the measuring device provided - kitchen spoons aren't accurate enough for antibiotics.
Complete the full antibiotic course even if symptoms resolve earlier to prevent resistance development.
Dosage Modifications and Safe Usage
Dose adjustments become essential with declining kidney function. For moderate kidney impairment (creatinine clearance 10-50mL/min), spacing doses to 12-24 hour intervals is recommended. Severe kidney impairment (creatinine clearance below 10mL/min) may require avoiding cephalexin or using a drastically reduced dose - approximately 25% of standard dosing.
Most patients with liver disease don't require dose changes since cephalexin undergoes minimal liver metabolism. Older adults need renal function screening before starting treatment due to age-related kidney decline.
Accidentally missing a dose? Take it immediately unless nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Never double Keftab doses to compensate. Store tablets below 25°C in their blister packaging. Refrigerate reconstituted suspension between 2-8°C and discard after two weeks.
Cephalexin Contraindications and Precautions
Never take Keftab if you've experienced cephalosporin anaphylaxis previously. Extreme caution is required with severe penicillin allergies due to potential cross-reactivity - approximately 5-10% of penicillin-allergic patients react to cephalosporins.
Special precautions apply to patients with histories of antibiotic-associated colitis. Renal impairment demands dose adjustments as discussed earlier. Those with seizure disorders should also exercise caution. Breastfeeding mothers should know cephalexin enters breastmilk - watch infants for diarrhea or thrush.
Older adults require particular attention. Serum creatinine screening helps catch age-related kidney changes early. This ensures appropriate Keftab dosing and prevents toxicity in vulnerable patients.
Cephalexin Side Effects Management
Mild stomach issues are extremely common with cephalexin. Over 10% of users experience nausea, diarrhea or abdominal discomfort approximately one week into treatment. Vaginal yeast infections also frequently occur due to microbiome disruption.
Less frequent but more serious reactions include hives or skin rashes signaling potential allergy. Temporary liver enzyme elevations might appear on blood tests without symptoms. Report these to your clinician.
Severe complications demand immediate medical attention. Watery, bloody stools suggest antibiotic-associated colitis requiring treatment cessation. Anaphylaxis presents as throat constriction or breathing difficulties. At the first sign, seek emergency assistance.
Patient Experience with Keftab
Keftab reviews from patients across the UK reveal consistent patterns of use. Many report positive outcomes for infections: "Cleared UTI in 3 days but caused mild thrush" remains a typical 4/5 rating experience. Users frequently note temporary stomach discomfort during initial doses, with some finding relief through yoghurt consumption alongside medication.
Practical Therapy Insights
Medication adherence runs higher for short courses like typical 7-day treatments compared to extended regimens. Nearly 90% of UK users report successful resolution of uncomplicated skin and urinary infections. Managing disruption to gut health remains a priority, with many patients combining probiotics with antibiotics to minimise digestive side effects.
Antibiotic Alternatives and Comparison
Common UK alternatives present distinct advantages for prescribers:
| Antibiotic | Key Strength | Cautions |
|---|---|---|
| Amoxicillin | First-choice for many bacterial infections | Higher rash risk than Keftab |
| Clarithromycin | Suitable for penicillin allergies | Possible heart rhythm issues |
| Trimethoprim | Targeted UTI action | Growing resistance concerns |
Clinical preferences lean toward flucloxacillin for skin infections despite Keftab's availability. For urinary infections during pregnancy, cephalexin ranks among the safest choices according to NHS guidelines.
UK Market Overview
Keftab maintains extensive availability through community chemists like Boots and Lloyds, plus NHS hospital formularies. Pricing varies significantly - NHS prescriptions cost £8.95 for 28×500mg tablets while private purchases range from £15-£30. Standard packaging includes foil blister packs for tablets and amber glass bottles for paediatric suspensions.
Use cases follow seasonal infection patterns: increased demand occurs during warmer months due to higher skin infection rates and winter UTI presentations. Unlike some antibiotics, Keftab hasn't been adopted for COVID-19 management protocols within the NHS.
Research Developments and Resistance Trends
Recent UK-focused studies confirm cephalexin maintains effectiveness against common pathogens. A 2022 Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy analysis revealed stable susceptibility in E. coli strains despite rising resistance to other antibiotics. Evidence from a 2023 Cochrane Review demonstrated equivalent efficacy to amoxicillin for cellulitis resolution.
Off-label prescription trends show minimal usage for conditions like Lyme disease prophylaxis. With all patents expired, over 20 generic suppliers now operate in the UK market. Clinicians confirm Keftab remains unsuitable for MRSA or resistant Gram-negative infections.
Proper Usage Guidelines
Administration Essentials
Swallow Keftab tablets whole, taking with water and food if nausea occurs. Shake suspensions vigorously before measurement and always use the dosing syringe provided. Space antibiotic doses consistently for sustained blood concentration.
Medication Interactions
Minimise digestive complications by separating Keftab doses from iron supplements or antacids by at least 2 hours. Alcohol consumption may intensify side effects like dizziness and should be avoided during treatment courses.
Storage and Safety
Tablets: Keep in original packaging below 25°C in dry conditions
Suspensions: Refrigerate after mixing; safely discard unused portions after 14 days
Critical errors include stopping treatment prematurely when symptoms improve and doubling doses after missed intakes. Always review the patient information leaflet and immediately report severe reactions like bloody diarrhoea or unexpected bruising.