Infections caused by microbial strands of bacteria can be of many types. Drugs are used for stopping the spread of such infectious conditions. These drugs are broadly categorised as antibiotic meds. Of this category, cephalosporin antibiotics form a sub-category. Cephalexin monohydrate is a commonly used cephalosporin antibiotic med. Can this drug treat gum infections and/or abscess inside your mouth? It is essential to know more on this.
Users are advised to stay wary of using antibiotics when there are no infections. Also, while using such drugs, you need to know such uses may have no / limited effect on non-bacterial infections i.e., those caused by viruses or fungi. There is also a possibility of the microbes turning resistant to the key ingredients of antibiotics.
What is cephalexin monohydrate?
This is an antibiotic med used for treating bacterial infections in middle-ear, respiratory pathways, gastric, and/or urinary infections. The key chemicals this drug is made of work on the cell membrane/walls of microbes. By destroying the walls, the microbe is destroyed – thus halting further progression.
No two patients with bacterial infections are prescribed the same dosage plan. Your plan is based on the severity of the underlying infection, the onset of other conditions – if any, your age, weight, etc. A widely available form of this drug is its tablet version; this form is taken through the oral route. It is sold in varying strength namely, 250 milligrams (mg) to 750 mg. Keflex is a popularly sold brand based on the generic form of cephalexin. This drug must be taken as per the instructions of a qualified medical practitioner.
Can Cephalexin treat gum infections and oral abscess?
Cephalexin monohydrate – at its 500 mg strength – is used for the treatment of tooth and gums conditions, especially tooth / oral abscess. Active substances present in this antibiotic med help crack the outer membrane of the microbe and thus rupture the cell structure of infectious bacteria in your oral parts such as gums, teeth, etc. This drug can also be used for bone-related infections, infections inside your ears, skin-based infections, etc.
For oral conditions, it is however essential to administer this antibiotic drug based on the advice of a qualified dentist. It can be unsafe to take this drug to treat oral problems through self-medication or over-the-counter (OTC) mode. You are advised to stay aware of the likely side effects this drug may trigger. Most commonly experienced adverse effects are discharge of watery/loose stool, abdominal problems such as nausea and/or vomiting, gastric problems like heartburns or acid reflux, etc.
The key chemicals of this antibiotic may also trigger drowsiness or can make your dizzy. Your treating doctor may tell you not to pursue tasks needing a high level of focus or attention. If you develop mental problems such as being confused or inability to stay calm, you are advised to take medical help on an emergency basis.
Safety precautions associated with the intake of this antibiotic med
Those who have developed prior allergies or hypersensitivity must tell their doctor of such problems. It is equally important to share details about your lifestyle / daily habits. For example it can be unsafe to take alcohol along with this antibiotic drug. Your caregiver will advise you to stop drinking till you complete your medication plan.
Upon sensing any of the aforesaid discomforts for more than a week’s time, it is essential to seek medical help by either calling 911 (if you are in the US) or reaching out to a poison control center working closer to where you live (this is for Canadian residents).
Education: Master’s in Nursing (MSN) from Johns Hopkins University. Experience: 7 years writing for online health portals and nursing journals, specializing in patient education and chronic illness management.
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