Cephalexin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic that effectively treats urinary tract infections (UTIs). A UTI is a bacterial infection affecting any part of the urinary system, most frequently the bladder or urethra. Cephalexin is often a preferred medication for these conditions.
How Cephalexin Addresses UTIs
Cephalexin functions by disrupting the ability of bacteria to construct and maintain their cell walls. It belongs to a class of antibiotics known as cephalosporins, which interfere with the formation of peptidoglycan, a component of bacterial cell walls. This action weakens the cell wall, causing it to rupture and ultimately killing the bacteria.
This mechanism makes cephalexin effective against common UTI-causing bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Proteus mirabilis, as these bacteria rely on intact cell walls for survival. Cephalexin also achieves high concentrations in the urine, contributing to its effectiveness in treating UTIs.
Prescribing Cephalexin for UTIs
Healthcare providers frequently prescribe cephalexin for UTIs, especially for uncomplicated cases. For adults, dosages range from 250 mg every six hours to 500 mg every twelve hours. Treatment duration is typically three to seven days for uncomplicated UTIs, though it can extend to seven to fourteen days based on infection severity and individual factors.
The exact prescription is tailored to the individual patient, considering factors such as the specific bacteria identified, the infection’s severity, and the patient’s overall health. While traditionally prescribed four times daily, recent research suggests that twice-daily dosing can be equally effective for uncomplicated UTIs, potentially improving patient adherence.
Important Considerations During Treatment
Patients taking cephalexin for a UTI should be aware of potential side effects, which commonly include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Vaginal itching or discharge may also occur. Serious allergic reactions, though less common, can manifest as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat and require immediate medical attention.
Completing the entire prescribed course of antibiotics is important, even if symptoms improve quickly. Stopping treatment prematurely can lead to the infection returning and contributes to antibiotic resistance, which occurs when bacteria change over time, making antibiotics less effective or ineffective.
Cephalexin can interact with other medications; for example, it may affect blood thinners like warfarin, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. It might also reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and herbal products they are taking to avoid potential interactions.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
It is important to contact a healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve within a few days of starting cephalexin, or if symptoms worsen. Persistent or severe side effects, such as watery or bloody diarrhea, severe stomach pain, or signs of an allergic reaction, warrant immediate medical attention. These could indicate a more serious condition or an adverse drug reaction.
Signs of a more serious infection, such as a kidney infection (pyelonephritis), require prompt consultation. Symptoms of a kidney infection include fever, chills, back pain, side or groin pain, nausea, and vomiting. If cephalexin is not effective or appropriate due to factors like allergies or specific bacterial strains, other antibiotic options are available.