Cefalexin tablets

Cefalexin tablets

Cefalexin tablets

PRESCRIPTION NEEDED (Pom-V)

Cefalexin tablets for dogs – oral antibiotic for pyoderma and other skin infections

Cefalexin tablets for dogs are an oral antibiotic containing the active ingredient cefalexin, a first-generation cephalosporin. This type of antibiotic is commonly used by vets to manage pyoderma and other bacterial skin infections in dogs when the bacteria are known or suspected to be sensitive to cefalexin.

Pyoderma is a term used for bacterial skin infections and can range from superficial infections with small pustules and scabs, through to deeper infections that cause painful, inflamed skin and hair loss. These conditions can be very uncomfortable for affected dogs and often require a combination of topical care, good skin hygiene and systemic antibiotics such as cefalexin to clear the infection.

Cefalexin tablets for dogs are prescription only (POM-V). This means they can only be supplied against a valid veterinary prescription and must be used under the direct supervision of a vet. Your vet will have examined your dog, considered possible causes of the skin disease and decided that an oral antibiotic like cefalexin is appropriate. In some cases, they may take skin swabs or samples for culture and sensitivity testing to confirm which antibiotic is most suitable.

Use in other species

Although the main use of cefalexin tablets is in dogs, vets may sometimes use cefalexin extra-label (off-label) in other species such as cats, horses, ferrets, reptiles and birds, where an appropriate licensed product is not available and where the vet judges that cefalexin is likely to be effective and safe. Extra-label use is covered by veterinary prescribing rules and is always the responsibility of the prescribing vet.

If your vet has prescribed cefalexin tablets for a species other than a dog, you must follow their instructions particularly carefully. Do not copy doses between animals, and never give the medicine to another pet without a fresh prescription. Different species handle drugs differently, and incorrect use can be harmful.

How cefalexin tablets for dogs are given

Cefalexin tablets for dogs are given by mouth. Your vet will tell you:

• How many tablets to give per dose

• How often to give them each day

• Whether they should be given with food or on an empty stomach

• How long the course should last

It is very important to give cefalexin tablets exactly as prescribed and to complete the full course, even if your dog’s skin seems to improve quickly. Stopping an antibiotic course too soon can allow surviving bacteria to regrow and may contribute to treatment failure and antimicrobial resistance.

If you accidentally miss a dose, follow your vet’s advice or the instructions on the label. Do not double up doses unless your vet has specifically told you to do so.

Monitoring and follow-up

Your vet will usually want to recheck your dog during or after a course of cefalexin 250mg tablets to make sure the infection is resolving properly. In some cases, especially with deep or chronic skin infections, treatment may need to continue for several weeks after the skin looks normal to ensure that the infection is fully cleared.

You should contact your vet if:

• There is little or no improvement after the expected time

• The skin worsens or new areas become inflamed

• Your dog develops vomiting, diarrhoea, inappetence or any other worrying signs

• You have difficulty giving the tablets or doses have been missed

Your vet may decide to extend the course, change the treatment or investigate for underlying problems such as allergies, parasites, hormonal disease or other factors that make skin infections more likely to recur.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, cefalexin 250mg tablets for dogs can occasionally cause side effects. These are usually mild and may include:

• Soft stools or mild diarrhoea

• Occasional vomiting

• Reduced appetite

If these occur and are mild, your vet may suggest continuing treatment with monitoring. However, you should seek veterinary advice promptly if your dog:

• Has persistent vomiting or diarrhoea

• Seems unusually quiet, weak or unwell

• Develops facial swelling, hives, breathing difficulty or collapse, which could indicate an allergic reaction

Serious or allergic reactions are uncommon but can be serious. Always follow your vet’s instructions and contact them if you are concerned.

Responsible antibiotic use

Cefalexin tablets for dogs are part of an important group of antibiotics used in veterinary practice. To help protect their effectiveness and reduce the risk of antimicrobial resistance:

• Only use cefalexin if it has been prescribed for your pet by a vet

• Follow the dose and course length exactly as prescribed

• Do not save leftover tablets “for next time”

• Do not share the medicine with other animals

• Return unused or expired tablets to your vet or pharmacy for safe disposal

Handling and storage

Handle cefalexin tablets for dogs with dry hands and store them in the original packaging. Keep out of sight and reach of children and other animals. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the pack.

People who are allergic to penicillins or cephalosporins should take special care when handling cefalexin tablets. If skin rash or other signs of allergy occur in a person after contact, they should seek medical advice and show the product packaging.

Important: prescription and legal category

Cefalexin tablets for dogs are a POM-V medicine. A written prescription from a veterinary surgeon is required before supply, and the tablets must only be used for the animal and condition stated on that prescription. If you think your dog’s medicine is not working, or if you are worried about side effects, do not alter the dose yourself – contact your vet for advice.

Summary

Cefalexin tablets for dogs are a prescription oral antibiotic used to treat pyoderma and other bacterial skin infections in dogs. When used responsibly, as part of a full skin management plan from your vet, they can help clear infection and improve comfort. In some cases, vets may also use cefalexin off-label in other species under strict professional guidance. Always follow your vet’s instructions and complete the prescribed course to get the best possible result.

You can download the datasheet here

You can visit the manufacturer’s website here