Is Cephalexin Advisable For Cellulitis Bacterial Infection Treatment In Child?

Posted on Tue, 21 Oct 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 21 Oct 2014 Answered on

Thu, 13 Nov 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Is it safe to give my 7 yr old daughter 52" 74lbs dose of 500mg capsule Cephalexin 3x daily for 7-10 days? She has a Cellulitis bacterial infection in her thumb from a cut that had to bd cauterized with silver nitrate. The Dr the prescribed it said its a double dose because her infection is so severe. Just checking, worried mom :)

Answered by Dr. Diptanshu Das (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Dose is appropriate

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthCareMagic. The recommended daily dosage for pediatric patients is 25 to 50 mg/kg in divided doses. So for a child of 74 lbs or 33.5 kg, the dosage of 500mg thrice daily is proper. It needs to be given for 5-10 days. Please do not worry as cephalexin is a safe and effective medicine and the dose is proper in this case.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Diptanshu Das (33 minutes later)

Thank you.
How long until the thumb shows improved coloration? Her thumb is a deep red purplish from the tip of thumb to first knuckle.

Answered by Dr. Diptanshu Das (3 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Around a week

Detailed Answer:
It will take some time to heal. It is difficult to comment without examining but still it should take a week's time or so, I hope.

Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju