Cefacin

Cefacin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Cefacin is a brand name. Its generic name is Cephalexin.

Introduction

Cefacin is an antibiotic drug belonging to the cephalosporin class. It is used to treat bacterial infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive bacteria, including skin, respiratory, urinary tract, and bone infections. It is also often prescribed as an off-label remedy for UTI infections, acne, impetigo, and gum diseases.

Uses for

Cefacin is primarily used in the treatment of infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, such as streptococci and staphylococci. Some off-label uses for cephalexin include treatment of impetigo, gum diseases, and urinary tract infections.

Mechanism of Action

Cefacin works by inhibiting the synthesis of peptidoglycan, which is an essential component of the bacterial cell wall. This action makes the cell wall weak and susceptible to destruction, leading to death of the bacterial cells.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Cefacin starts to work within 1 to 2 hours of taking the medicine. Symptoms of an infection should start to improve within a few days of taking the medication.

Absorption

Cefacin is rapidly and completely absorbed following oral administration.

Route of Elimination

Cefacin is eliminated through the kidneys by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.

Dosage Information

Cefacin is available in oral tablets and capsules in dosages of 250, 500, and 750 mg. For skin, bone, and urinary tract infections, the usual dose is 250-500mg twice daily or 500-750mg once daily. For respiratory infections, the usual dose is 250-500mg every 6-8 hours or 500-750mg every 12 hours.

Administration

Cefacin should be taken with food and plenty of fluids to help prevent irritation of the stomach and intestines. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time of your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Cefacin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other side effects include rash, dizziness, headache, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, Cefacin may also cause allergic reactions or liver damage. Call your doctor right away if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms.

Toxicity

Cefacin is considered to be safe and well-tolerated. However, an overdose may lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe overdose may result in liver damage, kidney damage, and coma.

Precaution

Patients with kidney and/or liver disease, asthma, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should take Cefacin with caution, as they are more susceptible to its side effects. As the drug may interact with other medications, it is important to inform your physician if you are on any other medication, including over the counter drugs.

Interaction

Cefacin may interact with other drugs and should not be administered with drugs that reduce the activity of bacteria, such as tetracyclines and macrolide antibiotics.

Disease Interaction

Cefacin may interact with certain chronic diseases, such as kidney and liver disease. Patients with kidney or liver disease should take the medication with caution and under medical supervision.

Drug Interaction

Cefacin may interact with other drugs, such as penicillin, tetracyclines, and macrolide antibiotics. It may also interact with drugs that reduce the activity of bacteria, such as chloramphenicol, probenecid, and allopurinol. It is important to inform your physician if you are taking any other medication before taking cephalexin.

Food Interactions

Cefacin may interact with food and beverages. Taking it with food may decrease its effectiveness. It should not be taken with alcohol.

Pregnancy Use

Pregnant women should take cephalexin with caution and only after consulting their physician. This drug can be used during pregnancy if deemed necessary by the physician.

Lactation Use

Cefacin should be used with caution in lactating women. It should not be used during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Acute Overdose

An overdose of cephalexin may lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe overdoses may cause liver damage, kidney damage, and even coma in rare cases. Seek medical attention right away if you suspect an overdose.

Contraindication

Cefacin should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity or allergy to cephalosporins. It should also not be used in patients with kidney and liver disease.

Use Direction

Cefacin should be used as directed by a physician. Take it with food and plenty of fluids to help prevent stomach irritation. Do not skip doses or stop taking the drug even if symptoms improve.

Storage Condition

Cefacin should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Volume of Distribution

Cefacin has a volume of distribution of 0.14-0.25 L/kg.

Half Life

The half life of cephalexin is 0.9-1.2 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of cephalexin is 0.07-0.55 L/h/kg.

Here you find in details version of Cefacin

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Cefacin

What is Cefacin?

Cefacin is a type of medication known as a cephalosporin antibiotic. It is used to treat certain types of bacteria infections.

What are the uses of Cefacin?

Cefacin is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections in the body. These include infections of the skin, respiratory tract, urinary tract, ears, and bones. It can also be used to prevent or treat certain bacterial infections in the lungs.

What is the usual dosage of Cefacin?

The usual dosage of Cefacin is 250 mg every 6-8 hours for adults. The dosage may vary based on age, weight, and condition of the patient.

What are the side effects of Cefacin?

The most common side effects of Cefacin include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and rash. More serious side effects include abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and seizures.

Is Cefacin safe for pregnant women?

Cefacin is safe for pregnant women when taken as directed by your doctor. It is important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant before taking this medication.

Can Cefacin be used to treat a sinus infection?

Yes, Cefacin can be used to treat a sinus infection. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Cefacin?

If you miss a dose of Cefacin, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

Is Cefacin effective against strep throat?

Yes, Cefacin is effective against strep throat. It can be used to treat strep throat, as well as other bacterial infections.

What should be avoided while taking Cefacin?

You should avoid alcohol while taking Cefacin as it can increase the risk of side effects. You should also avoid taking other medications that can interact with Cefacin such as antacids or probenecid.

Should I take Cefacin with food?

You may take Cefacin with food or on an empty stomach. However, taking it with food may help to reduce the risk of side effects.

Does Cefacin interact with any other medications?

Yes, Cefacin can interact with other medications, including some antibiotics. It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking before taking Cefacin.

What other forms does Cefacin come in?

Cefacin is available as tablets, capsules, suspension, and as an injection. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions for taking the medication.

Is Cefacin safe for children?

Yes, Cefacin is safe for children when taken as directed. Your doctor will adjust the dosage depending on your child's age, weight, and medical condition.

What is the shelf life of Cefacin?

The shelf life of Cefacin depends on the specific formulation and dosage form. Generally, tablets, capsules, and suspension have a shelf life of 3-5 years.

Is Cefacin a penicillin?

No, Cefacin is not a penicillin. It belongs to a group of medications called cephalosporin antibiotics.

Is Cefacin safe for people with kidney problems?

Yes, Cefacin is safe for people with kidney problems when taken as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor may adjust the dosage depending on your condition.

Is Cefacin an over-the-counter medication?

No, Cefacin is not an over-the-counter medication and must be prescribed by your doctor.

Can Cefacin be used to treat urinary tract infections?

Yes, Cefacin can be used to treat urinary tract infections. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.

Can Cefacin treat a tooth infection?

Yes, Cefacin can be used to treat a tooth infection. However, it is important to consult your doctor or dentist for the correct diagnosis and treatment.

Do I need to finish the full course of Cefacin?

Yes, it is important to finish the full course of Cefacin as prescribed by your doctor. This will help to ensure that your infection is fully treated and will help to prevent any resistance to the medication.

Can I take Cefacin while I am breastfeeding?

Yes, Cefacin is safe to take while breastfeeding. However, you should tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding before taking this medication.

Is Cefacin effective against viral infections?

No, Cefacin is not effective against viral infections as it is an antibiotic, which only works on bacterial infections.

Can Cefacin treat a strep throat?

Yes, Cefacin can be used to treat strep throat and other bacterial infections.

Should I avoid any food while taking Cefacin?

You should avoid eating dairy products such as milk, cheese, or yogurt while taking Cefacin as they can reduce the effectiveness of the medication.

Can Cefacin be used to treat a bacterial sinus infection?

Yes, Cefacin can be used to treat a bacterial sinus infection. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.

Can Cefacin treat a chest infection?

Yes, Cefacin can be used to treat a chest infection. You should see your doctor if the infection persists for more than five days or if it worsens.

Can Cefacin cause an allergic reaction?

Yes, Cefacin can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, rash, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.

Can Cefacin be taken on an empty stomach?

Yes, Cefacin can be taken on an empty stomach. However, taking it with food may help to reduce the risk of side effects.

Can Cefacin cause diarrhea?

Yes, Cefacin can cause diarrhea in some people. It is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication to help prevent dehydration.

What is the recommended dose of Cefacin for adults?

The recommended dose of Cefacin for adults is 250 mg every 6-8 hours. Your doctor may adjust the dose depending on your age, weight, and medical condition.

Can Cefacin cause yeast infections?

Yes, Cefacin can cause yeast infections in some people. It is important to tell your doctor if you experience any signs of a yeast infection such as itching, burning, or white patches.

How long does it take for Cefacin to work?

Cefacin usually starts to work within one to two hours of taking the medication. Results can vary based on the type of infection and person's individual response to the medication.

How long should I take Cefacin for?

You should take Cefacin for as long as your doctor recommends. This may be different for each person and will depend on the type of infection being treated.

Is Cefacin available in generic form?

Yes, Cefacin is available in generic form. Generic medications have the same active ingredient as the brand name and are usually more affordable.

What are the most common side effects of Cefacin?

The most common side effects of Cefacin include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and rash. More serious side effects include abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and seizures.

Can Cefacin be used to treat a urinary tract infection?

Yes, Cefacin can be used to treat a urinary tract infection. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.

Are there any foods I should avoid while taking Cefacin?

You should avoid eating dairy products such as milk, cheese, or yogurt while taking Cefacin as they can reduce the effectiveness of the medication.

What are the signs of an allergic reaction to Cefacin?

The signs of an allergic reaction to Cefacin include itching, rash, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.

Can Cefacin be used to treat a bladder infection?

Yes, Cefacin can be used to treat a bladder infection. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.

Can Cefacin cause nausea?

Yes, Cefacin can cause nausea in some people. It is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication to help prevent dehydration.

Is Cefacin safe for elderly patients?

Yes, Cefacin is safe for elderly patients when taken as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor may adjust the dosage depending on your age and medical condition.

Can Cefacin be used to treat strep throat?

Yes, Cefacin can be used to treat strep throat and other bacterial infections.

Can Cefacin be used to treat a skin infection?

Yes, Cefacin can be used to treat a skin infection. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.