Indications
Lebac (Cephradine) is a broad-spectrum, bactericidal antibiotic used to treat infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including penicillin-resistant strains.
- Respiratory Tract Infections: Sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
- Urinary Tract Infections: Cystitis, urethritis, and pyelonephritis.
- Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: Abscesses, cellulitis, furunculosis, and impetigo.
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Pharmacology
Cephradine works by inhibiting the biosynthesis of the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell lysis and death. It is effective against both penicillinase-producing and non-producing staphylococci.
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Dosage & Administration
- Oral (Adults):
- Urinary Tract Infections: 500 mg four times daily or 1 g twice daily.
- Respiratory/Skin/Soft Tissue Infections: 250-500 mg four times daily or 500 mg-1 g twice daily.
- Maximum daily dose: 4 gm.
- Oral (Children): 25-50 mg/kg total daily dose, divided into two or four doses. For otitis media, the dose is 75-100 mg/kg daily.
- Injectable (Adults): 2-4 gm daily in four divided doses, up to 8 gm daily for severe infections.
- Injectable (Children): 50-100 mg/kg daily in four divided doses, up to 300 mg/kg for severe infections.
- Renal Impairment: Dosage adjustment is necessary. For a creatinine clearance of 5-20 ml/min, the dose is 250 mg every 6 hours.
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Interaction
- Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides) and diuretics: Concurrent use may increase the risk of kidney damage.
- Probenecid: May enhance the possibility of renal toxicity.
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Contraindications
Lebac should not be used in patients with a known or suspected hypersensitivity to cephalosporins.
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Side Effects
Side effects are generally limited to gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) and hypersensitivity reactions. Rare side effects include dizziness, glossitis, headache, and skin rashes.
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Pregnancy & Lactation
Safety during pregnancy has not been established. Cephradine is excreted in breast milk, and caution should be exercised in lactating mothers.
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Precautions & Warnings
- Use with caution in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to penicillins due to the risk of cross-sensitivity.
- Prolonged use may lead to superinfection by resistant organisms.
- Lebac can cause a false positive result in the Coombsâ test and some urine glucose tests (Benedictâs, Fehlingâs, or Clinitest tablets).
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Therapeutic Class
Lebac is a first-generation cephalosporin.
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Storage Conditions
- Suspension: Use within 7 days at room temperature or 14 days if refrigerated.
- Injection solutions: Use within 2 hours at room temperature or 12 hours if refrigerated.
- Keep out of the reach of children.
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