Phexin BD (cephalexin) is a cephalosporin antibiotic useful in treating a wide range of bacterial infections. This particular product is distinct from others in that it is a long-acting formula, typically taken just twice per day---every 12 hours---while fast-acting formulas are often taken up to four times per day, or every 6 hours.

This product can be used in patients age 5 and up.

Phexin BD versus other Cephalexin Products

Phexin BD shares many properties with its fast-acting counterparts, but also has some differences.

Like all antibiotics, Phexin BD is only effective against certain types of bacteria, and has little effect on viral or fungal infections. Ideally a doctor will establish the infection is caused by bacteria, and determine the type of bacteria before starting treatment.

While fast-acting cephalexin products can be used to treat infections nearly everywhere in the body, Phexin BD is typically reserved to treat:

• Urinary tract infections
• Strep throat
• Otitis media (middle ear infection)
• Respiratory tract infections
• Skin infections
• Other soft tissue infections

In the above twice-per-day dosing is ideal and recommended even if taking fast-acting tablets. Other conditions typically respond better to more frequent, lower-dose administration.

Fast-acting cephalexin formulas can be found here.

Taking Phexin BD

Phexin BD comes in tablets of 375 or 750 mg. While two 375 mg tablets can be taken to produce a single 750 mg dose, creating smaller doses should not be attempted. Splitting, crushing, chewing, or otherwise damaging tablet integrity will destroy the long-acting properties; while unlikely to produce dangerous side effects, the medication will not provide the benefit intended.

Taking Phexin BD with food is recommended to prevent gastrointestinal side effects.

In the majority of cases treatment consists of:

• The standard dose is 750 mg twice per day (total of 1500 mg per day).
• For mild conditions the standard dose is 375 mg twice per day (total of 750 mg per day).
• Children and patients with other major medical conditions should take 375 mg twice per day.
• Treatment typically lasts for 5 to 14 days, depending on the infection and its severity.

Patients often start feeling better after the first dose or two, and feel completely fine before treatment ends. Treatment should be completed even if feeling fine to catch any lingering bacteria; failure to do so can contribute to resistant strains. A general rule with most antibiotics is that treatment should continue for a couple of days following the resolution of all symptoms.

If the infection is not gone when treatment ends, or appears to be worsening during treatment, a doctor should be consulted.

Potential Complications

Taken as directed, Phexin BD is a very safe medication unlikely to produce dangerous side effects.

Though similar to penicillin, Phexin BD is distinct from it and may be a viable alternative for those who have mild to moderate allergic reactions to penicillin. However, those with severe hypersensitivity to penicillin may experience a reaction to Phexin BD. If this is a concern, a doctor can help determine a patient's reaction.

Side effects from Phexin BD are typically mild and similar to those encountered with any antibiotic:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea

The above are not cause for concern unless severe. Note that even mild diarrhea can be quite dehydrating; be sure to drink extra fluids if diarrhea occurs.

Rarely more serious adverse effects may happen, which call for medical attention:

• Swollen or painful joints
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Confusion or hallucinations
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Unexplained rash or itching

The medication is unlikely to harm unborn or nursing babies, but parents should discuss possible risks with a doctor before starting treatment.

Phexin BD can interfere with the effectiveness of other medications; be sure to speak with a doctor or pharmacist before mixing treatments.

Phexin BD may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. Alternative forms of birth control should be utilized throughout treatment and for a couple of weeks after treatment ends.