Alcephin LA 500 mg/500 mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Severe abdominal pain
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe headache with visual changes
- Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Decreased urine output
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is alcephin la 500 mg/500 mg tablet used for?
This medicine is a combination antibiotic containing cefalexin and probenecid. It is used to treat certain bacterial infections by killing bacteria and prolonging the antibiotic's effect in the body. It should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor.
- Generic Name: Cefalexin + Probenecid
- Manufacturer: Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 alcephin la 500 mg/500 mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा सेफालेक्सिन और प्रोबेनेसिड का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग कुछ जीवाणु संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह शरीर में एंटीबायोटिक के प्रभाव को बढ़ाती है और संक्रमण को फैलने से रोकती है। इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, पेट दर्द और सिरदर्द शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में एलर्जी, सूजन, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, गुर्दे की समस्या और रक्त विकार हो सकते हैं। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। खुराक न छोड़ें और बेहतर महसूस होने पर भी कोर्स पूरा करें। इसे भोजन के साथ लें और पर्याप्त पानी पिएं। शराब से बचें। गुर्दे या लीवर की बीमारी हो तो डॉक्टर को बताएं।
💊 alcephin la 500 mg/500 mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Skin and soft tissue infections","description":"Used to treat bacterial infections of the skin and underlying tissues caused by susceptible gram-positive bacteria, such as cellulitis and abscesses.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Respiratory tract infections","description":"May be used for upper and lower respiratory tract infections caused by susceptible organisms, including pharyngitis and tonsillitis.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urinary tract infections","description":"Effective against certain urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria, especially when prolonged antibiotic levels are needed.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Bone and joint infections","description":"Sometimes used for bone and joint infections caused by susceptible bacteria, though other antibiotics may be preferred.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Gonorrhea","description":"Historically, probenecid was used with certain antibiotics to treat gonorrhea, but this is not a standard current use due to resistance.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Gout","description":"Probenecid alone is used to treat gout by increasing uric acid excretion, but this combination is not intended for gout treatment.","evidence":"Not established from the available information."}]
Primary treatment for: Bacterial infections
Also treats: Skin infections, Respiratory tract infections, Urinary tract infections
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Cefalexin + Probenecid |
| Brand Name | Alcephin LA 250 mg/250 mg Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI INFECTIVES |
| Action Class | Cephalosporin antibiotic + Uricosuric agent |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
Cefalexin works by binding to penicillin-binding proteins in the bacterial cell wall, inhibiting the final step of peptidoglycan synthesis, which leads to bacterial cell lysis and death. Probenecid inhibits the renal tubular secretion of cefalexin by competing for the organic anion transporter, thereby increasing cefalexin blood concentrations and prolonging its duration of action.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take alcephin la 500 mg/500 mg tablet
Strength: Each tablet contains cefalexin 500 mg and probenecid 500 mg.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose is one tablet taken orally every 12 hours or as directed by your doctor. The exact dose and duration depend on the type and severity of the infection, your kidney function, and other factors. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-adjust the dose. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may have reduced kidney function and may require dose adjustment. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing. |
| Renal Impairment | Dose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment. Consult your doctor for specific recommendations based on creatinine clearance. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment, but use with caution and monitor liver function. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose is 2 tablets (1000 mg cefalexin and 1000 mg probenecid) per day, but this may vary based on clinical judgment. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of alcephin la 500 mg/500 mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Methotrexate | Major | |
| Warfarin | Major | |
| Rifampicin | Major | |
| Furosemide | Moderate | |
| Ibuprofen | Moderate | |
| ACE inhibitors | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Oral contraceptives | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Methotrexate
- Warfarin
- Rifampicin
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
- ACE inhibitors
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach irritation, liver problems, and may worsen side effects such as nausea and dizziness.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known allergy to cephalosporins or probenecid","Severe renal impairment","History of blood disorders (e.g., aplastic anemia) related to probenecid","Children under 2 years of age","Pregnancy (probenecid should be avoided unless clearly needed)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Use with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.","May cause false-positive results in urine glucose tests.","Avoid in patients with a history of penicillin allergy due to cross-reactivity.","Probenecid may increase the risk of kidney stones; maintain adequate hydration.","Do not use for viral infections.","Complete the full course of therapy as prescribed."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Cefalexin is excreted in breast milk in small amounts and is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding. Probenecid may also pass into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medicine.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, seizures or kidney damage may occur. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Hemodialysis may be considered in severe cases.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop early, even if you feel better, as this can lead to antibiotic resistance. Take each dose with a full glass of water and preferably with food to reduce stomach upset. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to help prevent kidney stones, especially while taking probenecid. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it may increase the risk of stomach irritation and liver effects. Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, gout, or a history of blood disorders. Do not share this medicine with others. Keep out of reach of children.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are more likely to have reduced kidney function and may require dose adjustments. Monitor renal function closely and watch for signs of toxicity.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Probenecid should be used with caution during pregnancy.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine may be prescribed after surgery to prevent or treat infection. Follow your surgeon's instructions carefully and complete the course.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may interact with other medications used during dental procedures. Antibiotic prophylaxis may be needed for certain dental work.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Moderate exercise is generally safe, but if you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid strenuous activities until you feel better. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you are affected. Most people can continue their normal activities, but listen to your body and rest when needed.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine early unless your doctor tells you to. Complete the full course even if you feel better. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of antibiotic resistance and rare blood or kidney disorders. Regular monitoring of kidney and liver function is advised if prolonged therapy is necessary. Do not use for longer than prescribed without medical supervision.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
May be used for less severe infections where prolonged action is not required.
Evidence: Well-establishedDepending on the infection and susceptibility, other antibiotics may be prescribed.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines. Consult your doctor about vaccination timing while on this medicine.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from moisture. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing times gradually under medical guidance. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: You may start feeling better within 1-2 days, but it is important to complete the full course as prescribed.
A: Yes, taking it with food helps reduce stomach upset.
A: Take it as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for alcephin la 500 mg/500 mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
unifex 500 mg/500 mg capsuleBestoChem Formulations India Ltd ₹89.93 20.2% CHEAPER
-
procef forte 500mg/500mg tabletAlpha Drugs & Pharmaceuticals ₹120.00 6.5% COSTLIER
-
cefalong ds 500mg/500mg capsuleDr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd ₹125.80 11.7% COSTLIER
-
ceff la 500mg/500mg tabletLupin Ltd ₹174.03 54.5% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure viral infections like the flu.
Fact: This medicine is an antibiotic and is only effective against bacterial infections, not viruses. - Myth: You can stop taking this medicine once you feel better.
Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to prevent recurrence and resistance. - Myth: This medicine is safe to take without a prescription.
Fact: This is a prescription medicine and should only be taken under a doctor's supervision.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Cefalexin and Probenecid combination (generic)