Zencef 500 mg Capsule

Zencef 500 mg Capsule contains 500 mg of cefalexin in each capsule. Cefalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections, not viral illnesses like colds or flu. Zencef 500 mg Capsule may be prescribed for infections of the skin, throat, ears, lungs, or urinary tract when a doctor decides this strength is appropriate.

How it works: Cefalexin works by stopping bacteria from building a protective cell wall, which weakens and kills the bacteria. In capsule form, Zencef 500 mg Capsule is swallowed whole so the medicine is released into the body after it is absorbed from the gut.

Zencef 500 mg Capsule is a higher-strength capsule, so it may be chosen when a doctor wants a larger amount of cefalexin in fewer doses or fewer capsules. Compared with lower strengths, the 500 mg capsule can be more convenient for adult treatment plans, but it is not meant for self-selection or for every infection.

• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Strep throat and some other throat infections
• Ear infections
• Respiratory tract infections
• Urinary tract infections

• Swallow the Zencef 500 mg Capsule whole with water; do not crush or chew it.
• Take it exactly as prescribed, with or without food; taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.
• Try to take each dose at evenly spaced times to keep the antibiotic level steady.
• Finish the full course even if you feel better before it is done.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose; do not double up.

Each Zencef 500 mg Capsule provides 500 mg of cefalexin per capsule. The usual schedule depends on the infection, kidney function, and the prescriber’s instructions; it may be taken several times a day, and the total daily amount is set by the doctor. Do not change the dose or stop early unless your doctor tells you to.

Do not change your dose or stop the medicine without speaking to your doctor.

Common side effects of Cefalexin may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Indigestion
• Mild rash
• Headache

• Tell your doctor if you have a penicillin or cephalosporin allergy before taking Zencef 500 mg Capsule.
• Use caution if you have kidney problems, since cefalexin doses may need adjustment.
• Take extra care if you have a history of severe diarrhea or colitis after antibiotics.
• Let your clinician know about all medicines and supplements you use, especially blood thinners.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your doctor whether this strength is appropriate for you.
• Do not use Zencef 500 mg Capsule to treat viral infections.
• If you feel dizzy or unwell after taking it, avoid driving until you know how it affects you.

• Probenecid
• Warfarin and other anticoagulants
• Live bacterial vaccines such as oral typhoid vaccine
• Metformin
• Certain urine glucose tests

Store Zencef 500 mg Capsule at room temperature in its original strip/box, away from moisture and heat.