Cephalotin
Cephalotin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Cephalotin is a brand name. Its generic name is Cefalotin.
Cephalotin
Cephalotin is an antibiotic drug used for the treatment of bacterial infections. It belongs to the cephalosporin class of antimicrobials, and it acts by ceasing the production of bacterial cell walls. Cephalotin is typically prescribed to patients with severe infections, such as wound infections, bone infections, abscesses, meningitis, and certain types of pneumonia.
Uses for Cephalotin
Cephalotin is used to treat a wide variety of serious bacterial infections. Common uses include:
- Infections of the respiratory tract, such as pneumonia
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Bone infections
- Meningitis
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Infections of the blood
Mechanism of Action
Cephalotin works by inhibiting the production of cell walls of the bacterial cells. This prevents the bacteria from growing and multiplying, thus reducing the severity of the infection.
How Long Does It Take To Work?
Cephalotin typically begins working in the body after the first few doses. However, it may take several days or even weeks of treatment before the infection is eradicated. Patients should continue with the course of Cephalotin for as long as their doctor has prescribed, even if they start to feel better.
Absorption
Cephalotin is well absorbed after oral administration. However, it may be less effective if taken with antacids, and therefore should be taken either before or after meals.
Route of Elimination
Cephalotin is eliminated from the body primarily through the kidneys. A small amount is also excreted in the bile.
Dosage
Cephalotin is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Oral tablet: 250 mg, 500 mg, and 750 mg
- Powder for injection: 500 mg
Administration
Cephalotin can be taken orally or given through an intravenous (IV) injection. For oral administration, the tablets should be taken with food, unless otherwise instructed by a doctor. For IV administration, Cephalotin should only be administered by a healthcare professional.
Side Effect
Common side effects of Cephalotin include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Headache
- Fever
Toxicity
Cephalotin is considered to be moderately toxic. Overdose of the drug may result in serious complications, such as seizures, respiratory depression, and kidney failure.
Precaution
Before taking Cephalotin, patients should let their healthcare provider know if they have had any allergic reactions to any cephalosporin antibiotics in the past. Also, patients should inform their doctors if they have any type of kidney disease, as Cephalotin can cause or worsen kidney problems.
Interaction
Cephalotin may interact with other medications and herbal supplements. Patients should tell their doctor about any other medications they are taking, such as antacids, anticoagulants, and diuretics.
Disease Interaction
Cephalotin can interact with certain medical conditions. Patients should inform their doctor if they have any kidney or liver diseases, as well as any history of allergies.
Drug Interaction
Cephalotin may interact with several other drugs. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they are taking any potassium supplements, antacids, or diuretics, such as Lasix.
Food Interactions
Cephalotin may interact with certain foods. Patients should inform their doctor if they are taking any food supplements, iron supplements, or calcium supplements. It is important to avoid taking antacids when taking cefalotin, as this may reduce its effectiveness.
Pregnancy Use
Cephalotin is not recommended for use in pregnant women, as it may increase the risk of certain birth defects. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor before taking this medication during pregnancy.
Lactation Use
Cephalotin is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women, as it may pass into breast milk and cause harm to the infant. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor before taking this medication while breastfeeding.
Acute Overdose
Symptoms of an overdose of Cephalotin may include nausea, vomiting, seizures, and confusion. If an overdose is suspected, patients should seek immediate medical attention.
Contraindication
Cephalotin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to cephalosporin antibiotics. Additionally, Cephalotin should not be used in patients with a history of kidney problems or in those taking certain medications, such as antibiotics, antacids, or diuretics.
Use Direction
Cephalotin is typically taken two to four times daily with food. The dosage and length of treatment depend on the type of infection being treated, as well as the patient’s medical history and current health condition. Patients should follow their doctor's instructions and complete the full course of treatment.
Storage Condition
Cephalotin should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Patients should keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
Cephalotin is relatively evenly distributed throughout the body. Its volume of distribution is reported to be 0.2 L/kg.
Half Life
The half-life of Cephalotin is approximately 2 hours.
Clearance
Cephalotin is primarily cleared from the body through the kidneys. Its clearance rate is reported to be 0.06 L/hr/kg.
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