Keftab

Description

Keftab is a brand name for the antibiotic agent cephalexin. Keftab can kill bacteria that cause infections in various parts of the body. Keftab is not effective against viral infections like the common cold.

Drug Information

The main active ingredient in Keftab is cephalexin, which is categorized as a cephalosporin antibiotic. Cephalosporin antibiotics works similarly to penicillin. Cephalosporin antibiotics can kill certain strains of bacteria by preventing the microorganism from building a cell wall. Without a cell wall, the bacteria eventually die.

Cephalexin is effective against many types of Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria except the ones that can produce an enzyme called beta-lactamase. This enzyme can break down the molecular structure of cephalexin thus rendering it ineffective against the bacteria. However, cephalexin can be combined with agents that inhibit the beta-lactamase enzyme to target beta-lactam bacteria as well.

 Keftab can treat bacterial infections on the skin, in bones, joints, middle ear, respiratory tract and urinary tract.

 Keftab is also effective against the streptococcal strain of bacteria that causes diseases such as rheumatic fever.

 Keftab is not recommended for sinus infections caused by bacteria.

 Keftab is available as tablets and oral suspension formula.

Dosage

Keftab should only be taken when prescribed by a physician. The dosage for Keftab will be determined by the doctor depending on the type of infection, severity and the weight of the patient.

Keftab dosage as prescribed should be taken twice or four times daily with 6 or 12 hour intervals respectively. Keftab should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor and as indicated in the patient information leaflet that comes with the packaging. Misusing Keftab could lead to severe side effects or antibiotic resistance.

Swallow Keftab tablets with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets. When taking Keftab in liquid form, shake the bottle well before use. Measure the prescribed dose exactly using a dosage measuring device and not a household item.

Do not stop taking Keftab before the recommended period ends. Even if the symptoms of infection disappear early, discontinuing the drug midway through treatment could cause the infection to return.

Side Effects

Keftab may cause the following side effects:

 Diarrhea
 Nausea
 Upset stomach
 Vomiting
 Oral thrush
 Vaginal yeast infections

Side effects that worsen or last for more than a week should be reported to a doctor immediately.

Precautions

 Do not use Keftab if allergic to cephalexin. Patients who are allergic to other cephalosporin antibiotics or penicillin are more likely to be allergic to Keftab as well.

 Keftab should only be used when lab tests indicate a bacterial infection. Otherwise, the overuse or misuse of the drug can lead to antibiotic resistance. Keftab should never be used to treat common cold or flu infections caused by viruses.

 Keftab may not be entirely safe to use for patients with kidney disease and intestinal problems like colitis.

 Diabetic patients should be aware that liquid Keftab contains sugar.

 Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek medical advice regarding safety before using Keftab.