What is the dose of cefalexin (Cephalexin) for a male patient with a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

From the Guidelines

For a male urinary tract infection (UTI), the recommended dose of cefalexin is 500 mg orally every 12 hours or 250-500 mg every 6 hours for 7-14 days, depending on the severity of the infection, as suggested by the most recent guidelines 1. The treatment duration may vary depending on the complexity of the infection and the patient's response to the medication.

• For uncomplicated UTIs, a 7-day course is usually sufficient, while complicated UTIs may require the full 14 days, as indicated by the European Association of Urology guidelines 1.
• It is essential to complete the entire prescribed course even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication to ensure the infection is completely eradicated.
• Drinking plenty of water while taking cefalexin can help flush the urinary system and support the recovery process.
• Cefalexin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, causing bacterial cell death, and is effective against many common UTI-causing bacteria, particularly gram-positive organisms and some gram-negative bacteria, including Escherichia coli, which causes most UTIs 1.
• If symptoms don't improve within 48-72 hours, it is crucial to contact a healthcare provider, as a different antibiotic may be needed, considering the potential for antimicrobial resistance and the microbial spectrum of complicated UTIs 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

For the following infections, a dosage of 500 mg may be administered every 12 hours: ... and uncomplicated cystitis in patients over 15 years of age. The usual adult dose is 250 mg every 6 hours Cystitis therapy should be continued for 7 to 14 days.

The dose of cefalexin for a male UTI is 500 mg every 12 hours for uncomplicated cystitis, or 250 mg every 6 hours. The duration of therapy is 7 to 14 days 2.

From the Research

Dose of Cefalexin for Male UTI

• The dose of cefalexin for male UTI is not explicitly stated in the provided studies 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
• However, study 7 mentions that oral cephalosporins such as cephalexin or cefixime are second-line options for treating UTIs.
• The study does not provide a specific dose for cefalexin, but it can be inferred that the dose may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's individual needs.
• It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of UTIs, as they can provide guidance on the appropriate antibiotic and dosage based on the patient's specific condition and local susceptibility patterns 4, 7.

Treatment Options for Male UTI

• Study 4 recommends that men with lower UTI symptoms should always receive antibiotics, with urine culture and susceptibility results guiding the antibiotic choice.
• First-line antibiotics for men with uncomplicated UTI include trimethoprim, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, and nitrofurantoin for seven days 4.
• Study 7 suggests that second-line options for UTIs include oral cephalosporins such as cephalexin or cefixime, fluoroquinolones, and β-lactams, such as amoxicillin-clavulanate.
• The choice of antibiotic and dosage should be based on the patient's individual risk profile, prior antibiotic treatment, and local susceptibility patterns 6, 7.