SCHEDULING STATUS S4
RANCEPH CAPSULES are prescription antibiotics used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. This guide offers comprehensive information on the medication to ensure safe and effective usage.
Note: Always follow your doctor’s instructions when taking any medication. Keep this leaflet in case you need to read it again.
1. What it is and What They Are Used For
Active Ingredient
- Cefalexin monohydrate equivalent to cefalexin anhydrous.
Dosage Strengths
| Product | Cefalexin Strength | Lactose Content |
|---|---|---|
| RANCEPH 250 CAPSULES | 250 mg | 17 mg per capsule |
| RANCEPH 500 CAPSULES | 500 mg | 34 mg per capsule |
Class of Medication
Cefalexin belongs to the cephalosporins class of antibiotics. It fights bacterial infections by interfering with the bacteria’s cell wall formation, causing them to rupture and die.
Approved Uses
RANCEPH CAPSULES are used to treat infections caused by bacteria susceptible to cefalexin, including:
- Respiratory tract infections (lungs and airways)
- Otitis media (middle ear infections)
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Urinary tract and reproductive system infections (e.g., prostatitis)
- Dental infections
2. What You Need to Know Before You Take RANCEPH CAPSULES
Do Not Take RANCEPH CAPSULES If:
- You are allergic to cephalosporins or any other component of the capsules.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting your doctor.
Warnings and Precautions
Special care should be taken if:
| Condition | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Diarrhoea | If severe or persistent, consult your doctor immediately. May indicate a serious condition called pseudomembranous colitis. |
| Kidney problems | Inform your doctor. Dose adjustments may be required. |
| Scheduled lab tests | Cefalexin can affect blood/urine test results. Inform the lab technician that you are on this medication. |
Interaction with Other Medicines
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are using:
| Medication | Purpose | Potential Interaction |
|---|---|---|
| Probenecid | Gout | May increase levels of cefalexin in the body. |
| Diuretics (e.g., furosemide) | Water retention, high BP | Can increase risk of kidney toxicity. |
| Other antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin, tobramycin) | Severe infections | Risk of enhanced kidney toxicity. |
RANCEPH CAPSULES with Food and Drink
- Capsules may be taken before, during, or after meals.
- Swallow the capsule whole with water—do not crush or chew.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Fertility
- Not recommended unless prescribed by a doctor.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Driving and Using Machines
- RANCEPH CAPSULES may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion.
- Do not operate machinery or drive until you know how the medication affects you.
Allergy Information
RANCEPH CAPSULES contain lactose. Consult your doctor if you are lactose intolerant or have been advised to avoid sugars.
3. How to Take RANCEPH CAPSULES
General Guidelines
- Follow your doctor’s dosing instructions exactly.
- Do not share your medication.
- Take the capsules whole with water—do not crush or open them.
Dosage and Administration
| Patient Group | Typical Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 250 mg | Every 6 hours |
| 500 mg | Every 12 hours | |
| Severe infections | Up to 4 g per day | Divided doses |
| Children | 25–50 mg/kg/day | In divided doses every 6 hours |
| Elderly / Renal Impairment | Adjusted by doctor | Based on kidney function |
Note: Infections like streptococcal throat and skin infections require treatment for at least 10 days.
Missed Dose
- Take it as soon as you remember.
- If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed dose.
- Do not double dose to make up.
Overdose
Symptoms may include:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
- Confusion, agitation
- Seizures (in severe cases)
Contact your doctor, pharmacist, or poison control center immediately. Take the packaging or leaflet with you.
Stopping Treatment
- Do not stop early, even if you feel better.
- Stopping too soon may cause the infection to return.
4. Possible Side Effects
Like all medicines, RANCEPH CAPSULES can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.
Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Help)
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Difficulty breathing, rash, swelling | Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) |
| Skin rash with fever, joint pain | Serum sickness-like reaction |
| Blistering or peeling skin | Severe skin reaction |
| Severe diarrhoea with blood/mucus | Pseudomembranous colitis |
Common Side Effects
| Symptom | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea | Common |
| Headache | Common |
| Changes in blood count (tiredness, bruising) | Common |
Less Common Side Effects
| Symptom | Notes |
|---|---|
| Dizziness, confusion, drowsiness | Especially in renal-impaired patients |
| Liver inflammation (jaundice, dark urine) | May show on blood/urine tests |
| Seizures | Rare but serious |
| Vaginal thrush | Fungal overgrowth |
| Stomach cramps | Gastrointestinal irritation |
Effects on Lab Tests
- May affect liver enzymes or blood tests (Coombs’ test).
- May produce false positives for glucose in urine.
5. How to Store RANCEPH CAPSULES
- Store below 25 °C.
- Protect from moisture and heat.
- Keep out of reach of children.
6. Contents of the Pack and Other Information
What RANCEPH CAPSULES Contain
| Capsule | Active Ingredient | Excipients |
|---|---|---|
| RANCEPH 250 | Cefalexin 250 mg | Lactose, magnesium stearate |
| RANCEPH 500 | Cefalexin 500 mg | Lactose, magnesium stearate |
Capsule Description
| Capsule | Colour | Marking | Capsule Size | Powder |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 250 mg | Dark green/white | RX656 | Size 2 | White to off-white granular powder |
| 500 mg | Dark green/light green | RX657 | Size 0 | White to off-white granular powder |
Packaging Information
| Capsule | Packaging Options |
|---|---|
| RANCEPH 250 | Carton with 2×10 or 10×10 capsules in blister strips |
| RANCEPH 500 | Carton with 2×10 or 10×10 capsules in blister strips |
7. Manufacturer and Regulatory Information
- Holder of Certificate of Registration:
Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals (Pty) Ltd
14 Lautre Road, Stormill Ext 1
Roodepoort, 1724
South Africa
Final Reminders
- Never share antibiotics with others.
- Complete the full course even if symptoms improve.
- Consult your doctor before starting or stopping the medication.
- Report any unusual symptoms promptly.
Sources:
- RANCEPH Capsules – Patient Information Leaflet (SAHPRA)
- Comprehensive details on RANCEPH Capsules, including indications, dosage, contraindications, and potential side effects.
- View the leaflet
- RANCEPH Capsules – Professional Information Leaflet (SAHPRA)
- In-depth professional information on RANCEPH Capsules, covering pharmacological properties, clinical particulars, and more.
- Access the professional leaflet
- Cephalexin – Mayo Clinic
- Overview of cephalexin, discussing its uses, dosage forms, and general precautions.
- Read more
- Cephalexin – MedlinePlus Drug Information
- Detailed information on cephalexin, including usage instructions, dietary considerations, and potential side effects.
- Learn more
- Cephalexin Uses, Side Effects & Dosage Guide – Drugs.com
- Extensive guide on cephalexin, covering its applications, dosing recommendations, and possible drug interactions.
- Explore the guide
- Cephalexin Capsules or Tablets – Cleveland Clinic
- Information on the administration of cephalexin, its brand names, and considerations for use in different populations.
- View the information
- Cephalexin – StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf)
- Comprehensive overview of cephalexin, including its pharmacology, indications, and clinical considerations.
- Access the resource
- Cefalexin: Antibiotic Used for Infections – NHS
- Information on how cefalexin treats infections, usage guidelines, and potential side effects.
- Read more
- Cephalexin – WebMD
- Details on the uses, side effects, and precautions associated with cephalexin.
- Learn more
- Cephalexin – GoodRx
- Information on cephalexin’s uses, side effects, dosage, and pricing.
- Explore the details
Disclaimer: This leaflet is for informational purposes and should not replace medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns or questions.
Education:
Sochi Medical College 2014 – 2017
Work experience:
2017 – to date Sochi Pharmacy – Pharmacist
