Cephalexin Oral Suspension for Dogs

Cephalexin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is used in human and veterinary medicine. Currently no known FDA-approved cephalexin products are approved for veterinary use; however, both tablets and oral suspensions have been used off label for years to treat a variety of infections. In dogs, especially puppies and small-breed dogs, the oral suspension is used more often than tablets because of the ease of administering proper dosages. The oral suspension is packaged as a dry, crystalline powder that must be reconstituted with water before use.

  1. What is Cephalexin?

    • Cephalexin oral suspension is considered a first-generation cephalosporin. This class of cephalosporins is used to treat gram-positive infections, or infections that stain blue during the Gram-staining process. Common gram-positive bacteria are staphylococcus and streptococcus.

    How it Works

    • The absorption rate for cephalexin oral suspension is both high and rapid. Peak serum levels, or the level of antibiotic available in the blood when absorption reaches its peak, is about two hours after ingestion, with the levels declining by half through metabolism within one to two hours after peaking. This rapid metabolism rate is why animals must consume multiple doses throughout the day to keep therapeutic levels available in the bloodstream to combat infection.

    Side Effects

    • Notable side effects in dogs include salivation, rapid heart rate and excitability. Toxicity to the kidneys is possible, which is why cephalexin is not recommended for elderly animals or animals with a diagnosis of kidney disease.

    Uses

    • Common infections in veterinary medicine for which cephalexin is prescribed include bladder, skin, bone and wound infections. It can be used prophylactically to prevent infections as well as be used to treat active infections. Cephalexin is generally taken for seven to 10 days, and a full course of antibiotics should be taken to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

    Dosages and Storage

    • Therapeutic dosages for dogs range from 10 to 15 mg per lb. of body weight two to three times per day. Cephalexin oral suspension should be kept refrigerated after reconstitution. If kept chilled, the medication is good for up to two weeks. After that, the container should be discarded.