From the Guidelines
The maximum pediatric dose of cephalexin is 100 mg/kg/day divided into four equal doses, not to exceed the adult maximum of 4 grams per day. For most infections, the typical dosing range is 25-50 mg/kg/day divided into four doses. For more severe infections, the dose can be increased to the maximum of 100 mg/kg/day. Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis and is effective against many gram-positive bacteria and some gram-negative organisms. It's commonly used for skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, otitis media, and streptococcal pharyngitis in children. The medication should be administered at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day to maintain adequate blood levels. Cephalexin can be given with or without food, though taking it with food may help reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Therapy typically continues for 7-14 days depending on the infection being treated, and the full course should be completed even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. According to the guidelines for the management of community-acquired pneumonia in infants and children older than 3 months of age 1, and the practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of skin and soft-tissue infections 1, cephalexin is a recommended treatment option for various infections in children, with a maximum dose of 100 mg/kg/day.
Some key points to consider when prescribing cephalexin to pediatric patients include:
- The dose should be adjusted based on the severity of the infection and the patient's weight.
- The medication should be administered at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day.
- Cephalexin can be given with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
- Therapy typically continues for 7-14 days depending on the infection being treated.
- The full course of therapy should be completed even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
It's also important to note that cephalexin is effective against many gram-positive bacteria and some gram-negative organisms, making it a useful treatment option for a variety of infections in children. However, it's essential to follow the recommended dosing guidelines and to monitor patients for any potential side effects or allergic reactions.
From the FDA Drug Label
Pediatric Patients The usual recommended daily dosage for pediatric patients is 25 to 50 mg/kg in divided doses The pediatric max dose of cephalexin is 50 mg/kg per day in divided doses 2.
- The dose may be doubled in severe infections.
- For otitis media, a dosage of 75 to 100 mg/kg/day in 4 divided doses is required.
- For β-hemolytic streptococcal infections, a therapeutic dosage should be administered for at least 10 days.
From the Research
Pediatric Max Dose of Cephalexin
- The maximum dose of cephalexin for pediatric patients is 1.5 g per dose, as stated in the study 3.
- Another study 4 suggests a maximum dose of 1,375 mg per dose for pediatric patients.
- The dosing frequency for pediatric patients can be three times daily, with a dose of 45 mg/kg (maximum 1.5 g) as mentioned in the study 3.
- Alternatively, a dose of 25 mg/kg (maximum 750 mg) three times daily can also be effective, as reported in the study 4.
- It is essential to note that the dosing regimen may vary depending on the specific infection being treated and the patient's individual needs.
- The studies 5, 6, and 7 do not provide direct information on the pediatric max dose of cephalexin.