keftab
| Product dosage: 125mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 60 | $0.87 | $52.06 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $0.75 | $78.10 $67.08 (14%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $0.68 | $104.13 $82.10 (21%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $0.63 | $156.19 $113.14 (28%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $0.59 | $234.29 $158.20 (32%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.56
Best per pill | $312.39 $203.25 (35%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 250mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 30 | $1.37 | $41.05 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $0.97 | $82.10 $58.07 (29%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $0.83 | $123.15 $75.09 (39%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $0.77 | $164.20 $92.11 (44%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $0.70 | $246.30 $125.15 (49%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $0.66 | $369.46 $177.22 (52%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.63
Best per pill | $492.61 $228.28 (54%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 375mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 30 | $1.80 | $54.07 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $1.25 | $108.13 $75.09 (31%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $1.08 | $162.20 $97.12 (40%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $0.98 | $216.27 $118.15 (45%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $0.90 | $324.40 $161.20 (50%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $0.83 | $486.60 $225.28 (54%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.80
Best per pill | $648.80 $289.36 (55%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 500mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 30 | $2.47 | $74.09 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $1.74 | $148.18 $104.13 (30%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $1.48 | $222.28 $133.16 (40%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $1.36 | $296.37 $163.20 (45%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $1.24 | $444.55 $223.28 (50%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $1.16
Best per pill | $666.83 $313.39 (53%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Similar products
Cephalexin, marketed under the brand name Keftab among others, is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic belonging to the beta-lactam class. It’s a cornerstone in outpatient and inpatient settings for its reliable activity against a range of common bacterial pathogens. Structurally similar to penicillins, it works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death. Its role in modern medicine is significant, providing a critical therapeutic option, especially in an era of growing antimicrobial resistance where older, well-tolerated agents remain valuable. We often turn to it for skin and soft tissue infections, respiratory tract infections, and urinary tract infections when the suspected organisms fall within its spectrum.
Key Components and Bioavailability of Keftab
The active pharmaceutical ingredient in Keftab is cephalexin monohydrate. It’s formulated for oral administration, commonly available in 250 mg and 500 mg capsules and tablets, as well as an oral suspension. A key aspect of its pharmacokinetics is its bioavailability; cephalexin is acid-stable and is well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak serum concentrations occurring about one hour after an oral dose. Unlike some supplements that require specific co-factors for absorption, cephalexin’s absorption is generally reliable and not significantly enhanced by food, though taking it with food can mitigate potential gastrointestinal upset. Its protein binding is relatively low (10-15%), meaning a higher proportion of the drug is free in the bloodstream to exert its antibacterial effect. The primary route of elimination is via the kidneys through glomerular filtration and tubular secretion, which is a crucial consideration for dosing in patients with renal impairment.
Mechanism of Action of Keftab: Scientific Substantiation
The mechanism of action for Keftab is bactericidal, meaning it kills bacteria rather than just inhibiting their growth. It targets the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, a structure that human cells lack, which contributes to its selective toxicity. Specifically, cephalexin binds to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located on the inner membrane of the bacterial cell wall. These PBPs are enzymes (transpeptidases, carboxypeptidases) that are critical for the final stages of peptidoglycan cross-linking, which gives the cell wall its structural rigidity. By binding to these PBPs, cephalexin inhibits the transpeptidation reaction, disrupting cell wall synthesis. This leads to the activation of autolytic enzymes (autolysins) in the bacterial cell wall, which causes lysis and ultimately death of the bacterium. It’s primarily effective against gram-positive bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus (including penicillinase-producing strains) and Streptococcus pyogenes, and some gram-negative bacteria like Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Its spectrum doesn’t cover methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or most anaerobes.
Indications for Use: What is Keftab Effective For?
Keftab is indicated for the treatment of a variety of bacterial infections caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms.
Keftab for Respiratory Tract Infections
It’s commonly used for respiratory infections like pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and bronchitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. It’s a good alternative for patients with a non-anaphylactic penicillin allergy.
Keftab for Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
This is one of its most frequent uses. It’s effective against cellulitis, impetigo, and abscesses often caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.
Keftab for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
It demonstrates good concentration in the urine, making it a suitable choice for uncomplicated UTIs caused by susceptible E. coli, K. pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis.
Keftab for Otitis Media
Cephalexin is a recognized option for acute otitis media in children when the causative organisms are covered, though its use has been somewhat superseded by other agents with better pneumococcal coverage in some guidelines.
Keftab for Bone Infections
While not a first-line agent for deep-seated osteomyelitis, it can be used for less severe bone infections caused by susceptible staphylococci.
Instructions for Use: Dosage and Course of Administration
Dosage is highly dependent on the infection’s severity, the causative organism, and patient-specific factors like renal function. The following table provides general adult dosing guidelines. The typical adult dose is 250 mg every 6 hours, or for more severe infections, 500 mg every 8-12 hours. For children, the dose is typically 25-50 mg/kg/day divided into 4 doses.
| Indication | Typical Adult Dosage | Frequency | Duration (General Guide) | Administration Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skin/Soft Tissue | 500 mg | Every 12 hours | 7-14 days | With or without food |
| Streptococcal Pharyngitis | 500 mg | Every 12 hours | 10 days | To prevent rheumatic fever |
| Uncomplicated Cystitis | 500 mg | Every 12 hours | 7 days | With a full glass of water |
| Mild-Moderate Infections | 250 mg | Every 6 hours | 7-14 days | Can be taken with food to reduce GI upset |
It is crucial that patients complete the entire prescribed course of Keftab, even if they start to feel better, to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance and ensure eradication of the infection.
Contraindications and Drug Interactions with Keftab
The primary contraindication for Keftab is a history of a serious hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to cephalexin or any other cephalosporin. Caution is advised in patients with a history of penicillin allergy, as there is a reported 5-10% cross-reactivity due to the shared beta-lactam structure. It is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity.
Regarding drug interactions, the most significant one is with probenecid. Probenecid competitively inhibits the renal tubular secretion of cephalexin, leading to increased and prolonged blood levels of the antibiotic. While this can sometimes be used therapeutically, it requires careful monitoring. Concurrent use of metformin may require adjustment of the metformin dose, as cephalexin can compete for renal tubular secretion and potentially increase metformin concentrations. As with many antibiotics, Keftab may reduce the efficacy of oral typhoid vaccine and potentially oral contraceptives, so patients should be advised to use a backup non-hormonal method of contraception during the cycle. Use during pregnancy (Category B) and lactation should be undertaken only if clearly needed, as cephalexin is excreted in human milk.
Clinical Studies and Evidence Base for Keftab
The evidence for cephalexin is extensive, given its long history of use since the 1960s. While newer antibiotics have emerged, Keftab’s efficacy in its approved indications remains well-documented.
A landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in the 1970s established its efficacy for skin and soft tissue infections, showing clinical cure rates exceeding 90% for infections caused by susceptible staphylococci and streptococci. For uncomplicated UTIs, numerous trials, including a meta-analysis in Clinical Infectious Diseases, have consistently shown it to be as effective as other first-line agents like trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (when local resistance patterns are favorable), with clinical success rates typically between 85-95%.
Its role in treating streptococcal pharyngitis is also well-supported. A randomized controlled trial comparing a 10-day course of cephalexin to penicillin V demonstrated equivalent bacteriologic eradication rates, solidifying its position as a recommended alternative in major guidelines like those from the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA). The drug’s safety profile has been reaffirmed through decades of post-marketing surveillance, with GI disturbances being the most commonly reported adverse events.
Comparing Keftab with Similar Products and Choosing a Quality Product
When comparing Keftab to other antibiotics, the decision often hinges on spectrum of activity, safety profile, cost, and local resistance patterns.
- Vs. Penicillins (e.g., Amoxicillin): Keftab has a broader spectrum against beta-lactamase producing staphylococci. It’s a go-to for patients with a non-severe penicillin allergy. However, amoxicillin is often preferred for its superior activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae in respiratory infections.
- Vs. Cephalosporins (e.g., Cefadroxil, Cefaclor): Cefadroxil is very similar but has a longer half-life, allowing for twice-daily dosing. Cefaclor is a second-generation cephalosporin with expanded gram-negative coverage but is less potent against staphylococci. Keftab offers a good balance of efficacy, cost, and dosing schedule.
- Vs. Macrolides (e.g., Azithromycin): Macrolides are used for atypical pathogens in respiratory infections, which cephalexin does not cover. Keftab is generally more effective for typical bacterial skin and soft tissue infections.
- Vs. Fluoroquinolones (e.g., Ciprofloxacin): Fluoroquinolones have a much broader gram-negative spectrum but carry a higher risk of serious adverse effects (tendon rupture, CNS effects). Keftab is a safer choice for simple UTIs and skin infections when the organism is susceptible.
When choosing a product, Keftab is the branded version. Numerous generic cephalexin products are available and are bioequivalent, meaning they contain the same active ingredient and are absorbed identically. The choice between brand and generic often comes down to cost and insurance coverage, as the therapeutic effect is the same for FDA-approved generics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Keftab
What is the recommended course of Keftab to achieve results?
The course varies by infection but is typically 7 to 14 days. For strep throat, a full 10-day course is critical to prevent rheumatic fever. Never stop early, even if symptoms improve.
Can Keftab be combined with alcohol?
It’s not recommended. While it doesn’t cause a severe reaction like disulfiram, alcohol can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and can potentially stress the liver, which processes the drug.
Can Keftab be combined with warfarin?
Caution is advised. Some antibiotics, including cephalosporins, can potentially potentiate the effect of warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding. More frequent INR monitoring is essential during and shortly after a course of Keftab.
Is Keftab effective against viral infections like the flu or common cold?
No, Keftab is an antibacterial agent and has no activity against viruses. Using it for viral infections is ineffective and contributes to antibiotic resistance.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Keftab?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Conclusion: Validity of Keftab Use in Clinical Practice
In conclusion, Keftab (cephalexin) remains a valid and valuable tool in the clinical arsenal. Its well-understood mechanism of action, proven efficacy across several common bacterial infections, and generally favorable safety profile support its continued use. While the rise of resistance necessitates careful and judicious use, its role as a first-line or alternative agent for skin, soft tissue, respiratory, and urinary tract infections is firmly established by decades of clinical evidence and real-world experience. For healthcare providers, it represents a reliable, cost-effective option for managing susceptible infections, particularly in an outpatient setting.
You know, I remember when I first started out, I thought all these old-school antibiotics were kind of boring. You learn about the fancy new ones in med school, the ones with the broad spectra. But it was an early case that really hammered home the value of a drug like Keftab. I had a patient, let’s call him Robert, a 68-year-old retired carpenter with diabetes. He came in with a classic cellulitis on his lower leg—red, warm, swollen. Nothing crazy, but in a diabetic, you don’t mess around. His creatinine was a bit elevated, maybe 1.6, hinting at some early renal stuff. We cultured it, but needed to start empiric coverage. The team was debating—one of the junior residents was pushing for a fancier, broader-spectrum agent “just to be safe.” But my attending, this old-school infectious disease doc, Dr. Evans, he just shook his head. “His history says he’s tolerated penicillin fine in the past. Local resistance patterns for community-acquired cellulitis still favor MSSA and Strep. Let’s use cephalexin. It’s narrow, it’s effective, it’s cheap, and we can adjust the dose for his kidneys. Save the big guns for when we really need them.” We started him on 500 mg TID, and I’ll be honest, I was a little skeptical. But within 48 hours, the erythema was receding, the warmth was gone. The culture came back a day later—MSSA, susceptible. We’d nailed it. He completed a 10-day course without a hitch. That case was a lesson in stewardship and trusting the evidence for the right bug in the right patient. We later had a bit of a disagreement in a department meeting about making it a first-line option in our outpatient guidelines for uncomplicated SSTIs—some argued it was becoming less effective. But the data and our own internal audit showed a >90% success rate. The failed insight, if you will, was assuming newer was always better. I’ve followed Robert for years now for his diabetes, and he’s had a couple minor skin breaks since, but never another serious cellulitis. He still jokes that the “little white capsule” is his go-to. It’s these longitudinal follow-ups that truly validate a treatment. You see the patient not just as an infection, but as a whole person who needs a safe, effective, and sustainable solution. Keftab, for all its simplicity, often provides exactly that.