From the Guidelines
Cephalexin can be used to treat otitis media (ear infections), but it is not the first-line treatment according to the most recent guidelines. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends amoxicillin as the first-line treatment for acute otitis media (AOM) 1. However, cephalexin, a first-generation cephalosporin, can be effective against many common ear infection-causing bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.
The typical adult dosage of cephalexin is 250-500 mg taken orally every 6 hours, or 500-1000 mg every 12 hours for 5-10 days, depending on infection severity. For children, the recommended dose is 25-50 mg/kg/day divided into 2-4 doses. Cephalexin works by disrupting bacterial cell wall synthesis, causing bacterial cell death. Patients should complete the entire prescribed course even if symptoms improve before finishing.
Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, and rash. Those with penicillin allergies should use caution, as about 10% may experience cross-reactivity. While cephalexin is effective for many ear infections, some cases may require different antibiotics if caused by resistant bacteria or if symptoms don't improve within 48-72 hours of treatment, as suggested by the guidelines for the diagnosis and management of acute otitis media 1.
It's essential to note that the choice of antibiotic should be based on the severity of the infection, the patient's age, and the presence of any underlying medical conditions. In cases where the patient does not respond to initial treatment with amoxicillin, a change in antibiotic may be necessary, and cephalexin could be considered as an alternative option 1.
In summary, while cephalexin can be used to treat otitis media, it is crucial to follow the most recent guidelines and consider the specific circumstances of each patient to ensure the best possible outcome. The guidelines for the diagnosis and management of acute bacterial sinusitis also provide valuable information on the treatment of otitis media, highlighting the importance of selecting the appropriate antibiotic based on the patient's condition and the suspected causative pathogens 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
In the therapy of otitis media, clinical studies have shown that a dosage of 75 to 100 mg/kg/day in 4 divided doses is required.
Cephalexin can treat otitis media (ear infections), with a recommended dosage of 75 to 100 mg/kg/day in 4 divided doses 2.
From the Research
Cephalexin and Ear Infections
- Cephalexin is an antibiotic that can be used to treat certain types of bacterial infections, including ear infections (otitis media) 3, 4.
- The effectiveness of cephalexin in treating ear infections depends on the type of bacteria causing the infection 4.
- Studies have shown that cephalexin is effective against certain bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus, but may not be as effective against others, such as Haemophilus influenzae 5, 4.
Comparison with Other Antibiotics
- Cephalexin has been compared to other antibiotics, such as ampicillin and amoxicillin/clavulanate, in the treatment of ear infections 6, 7, 4.
- Amoxicillin/clavulanate is often considered a first-line treatment for ear infections, especially in cases where the bacteria are resistant to penicillin 6, 7.
- Cephalexin may be considered an alternative treatment option in certain cases, but its effectiveness depends on the specific bacteria causing the infection 3, 5, 4.
Specific Bacterial Causes
- Cephalexin may be effective against ear infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus, but may not be as effective against Haemophilus influenzae 5, 4.
- In cases where the bacteria are resistant to penicillin, cephalexin may still be effective, but other antibiotics, such as amoxicillin/clavulanate, may be preferred 6, 7.