Sporidex (Cephalexin)
Also sold as: Sporidex, Cephaxin, Ibilex, Alcephin, Phexin
Pregnancy
Cat B
Lactation
Safe
Schedule
H
Forms
Capsule 250/500mg +3
Indications
- Skin and soft tissue infections (cellulitis, impetigo, folliculitis)
- Streptococcal pharyngitis (penicillin-allergic patients)
- Uncomplicated UTI
- Otitis media
- Bone and joint infections (mild)
- Endocarditis prophylaxis (dental, penicillin-allergic)
Adult Dosing
Skin/soft tissue infections
500 mg PO every 6 hours
7-10 days
UTI (uncomplicated)
500 mg PO BD
7 days
Strep pharyngitis
500 mg PO BD
10 days
Endocarditis prophylaxis
2 g PO single dose
30-60 min before procedure
Pediatric Dosing
For severe infections: 50-100 mg/kg/day. Strep pharyngitis: 25-50 mg/kg/day divided BD × 10 days
Renal Dose Adjustment
| CrCl / eGFR | Dose Adjustment |
|---|---|
| CrCl > 60 mL/min | No adjustment |
| CrCl 30-60 mL/min | 500 mg every 8-12 hours |
| CrCl 15-29 mL/min | 250-500 mg every 12 hours |
| CrCl < 15 mL/min | 250 mg every 24 hours |
Hepatic Adjustment
No adjustment required
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Category B
Generally considered safe; widely used for UTI and skin infections in pregnancy.
Lactation: Safe
Excreted in breast milk in very small amounts; compatible with breastfeeding.
Top Drug Interactions
| Interacting Drug | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin | May increase INR — monitor | Moderate |
| Probenecid | Increases cephalexin levels by reducing renal clearance | Moderate |
| Metformin | May slightly increase metformin levels | Minor |
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Side Effects
Common
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Skin rash
- Vaginitis
Serious / Discontinue If
- Anaphylaxis (cross-reactivity with penicillin ~1-3%)
- C. difficile colitis
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Contraindications
- Cephalosporin hypersensitivity
- Severe penicillin allergy (anaphylaxis, urticaria)
Available Indian Brands
| Brand | Manufacturer | Price (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Sporidex 500 | Cipla | 10 cap ₹85 |
| Phexin 500 | GSK | 10 tab ₹95 |
| Ibilex 500 | Abbott | 10 cap ₹88 |
| Alcephin 500 | Alkem | 10 cap ₹72 |
Monitoring Required
- Renal function in CKD
- Signs of superinfection
Patient Counseling Points
- Can be taken with or without food (with food reduces GI upset)
- Complete the full course even if feeling better
- Report severe diarrhea, rash, or swelling
- Inform dentist/doctor of any previous penicillin allergy
Stop Googling drug references mid-consultation
EasyClinic auto-flags Sporidex interactions, renal cutoffs, and pregnancy warnings the moment you write the prescription. Built-in safety net for every Indian doctor.
Clinically reviewed by: Dr. Sanjay Mehta, MD (Internal Medicine), Senior Consultant
Last reviewed: 2026-04-01
References
- BNF — Cephalexin
- IAP Standard Treatment Guidelines 2024
- IDSA Skin and Soft Tissue Infection Guidelines