Cephalexin Hydrochloride, a medication used to treat bacterial infections, is pronounced /sɛfəlɛksɪn/ /ˌhaɪdrəˈklɔːraɪd/. The word "cephalexin" is spelled with a "c", not a "k", and is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable. Meanwhile, "hydrochloride" is spelled as one word, with the stress on the first syllable, and is pronounced /haɪdrəˈklɔːraɪd/. As with many medical terms, the spelling and pronunciation of Cephalexin Hydrochloride can seem overwhelming, but proper pronunciation is important for effective communication between healthcare providers and patients.
Cephalexin hydrochloride is a type of antibiotic medication belonging to the cephalosporin class. It is derived from the natural compound cephalosporin C. Cephalexin hydrochloride is commonly prescribed for the treatment of various bacterial infections caused by susceptible microorganisms.
This drug functions by inhibiting the growth and replication of bacteria, thereby preventing the spread of infection. Cephalexin hydrochloride works by interfering with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, leading to its weakening and ultimately causing the death of the bacteria.
Common infections treated with cephalexin hydrochloride include respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and bone infections. It is usually administered orally in the form of capsules or suspensions, with dosing frequency and duration determined by the severity and site of infection.
While generally safe and well-tolerated, adverse effects such as mild gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, and overgrowth of non-susceptible bacteria may occur. It is important to complete the entire course of treatment as directed by the healthcare provider to ensure eradication of the infection.
As an antibiotic, cephalexin hydrochloride falls under the prescription-only category, meaning it can only be obtained with a valid medical prescription. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before using this medication.
The word "Cephalexin" is derived from "Cephalosporin", which is a class of antibiotics. "Cephalo-" comes from the Greek word "kephalḗ" meaning "head" and "-sporin" comes from the Latin word "spōra" meaning "seed" or "spore". This is because the antibiotics in this class were originally derived from a type of mold called Cephalosporium.
"Hydrochloride" refers to the salt form of the compound, which is created by combining the drug molecule with hydrochloric acid. The term "hydro-" comes from the Greek word "hudṓr" meaning "water", and "chloride" comes from the elements hydrogen and chlorine.