Caceff 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
- Severe or bloody diarrhoea
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is caceff tablet used for?
This medicine is a combination of cefalexin (an antibiotic) and carbocisteine (a mucolytic) used to treat bacterial respiratory tract infections with thick mucus. It works by killing bacteria and thinning mucus, making it easier to cough up. It is available as an immediate-release tablet and must be taken as prescribed by a doctor.
- Generic Name: Cefalexin + Carbocisteine
- Manufacturer: Lupin Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 caceff tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा सेफालेक्सिन और कार्बोसिस्टीन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग बैक्टीरियल श्वसन संक्रमण के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है, खासकर जब बलगम गाढ़ा हो और निकलने में कठिनाई हो। यह दवा बैक्टीरिया को मारती है और बलगम को पतला करके बाहर निकालने में मदद करती है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, पेट दर्द और त्वचा पर चकत्ते शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन यदि सांस लेने में कठिनाई, चेहरे या गले में सूजन, या गंभीर त्वचा पर दाने हों तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। पूरा कोर्स पूरा करें, भले ही आप बेहतर महसूस करें। दवा को पानी के साथ लें, और यदि पेट में जलन हो तो भोजन के साथ लें। शराब का सेवन न करें। गुर्दे या यकृत की समस्या हो तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें।
💊 caceff tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Acute bacterial bronchitis","description":"Used to treat bacterial infection of the bronchi, especially when associated with thick mucus production.","evidence":"Well-established for cefalexin; carbocisteine is used as an adjunct for mucus clearance."},{"condition":"Acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis","description":"Helps in managing bacterial exacerbations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or chronic bronchitis.","evidence":"Well-established for cefalexin; carbocisteine is commonly added for symptomatic relief."},{"condition":"Respiratory tract infections with mucus congestion","description":"Prescribed for infections like pneumonia or sinusitis when thick mucus is a prominent feature.","evidence":"Cefalexin is effective against susceptible bacteria; carbocisteine aids in mucus clearance."}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Otitis media","description":"Cefalexin is sometimes used for ear infections, but the combination with carbocisteine is not standard.","evidence":"Limited for the combination; cefalexin alone may be used."},{"condition":"Urinary tract infections","description":"Cefalexin is used for UTIs, but carbocisteine has no role here.","evidence":"Not established for the combination."}]
Primary treatment for: Bacterial respiratory tract infections with mucus congestion
Also treats: Acute bronchitis, Chronic bronchitis exacerbation, Pneumonia, Sinusitis
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Cefalexin + Carbocisteine |
| Brand Name | Caceff Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Lupin Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI INFECTIVES |
| Action Class | Cephalosporin antibiotic + Mucolytic |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep in the original container. |
| 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
This medicine combines two active ingredients with distinct mechanisms. Cefalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that works by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) on the bacterial cell wall, inhibiting the synthesis of peptidoglycan, which is essential for cell wall integrity. This leads to bacterial cell lysis and death. Carbocisteine is a mucolytic agent that reduces the viscosity of mucus by breaking down disulfide bonds in mucoproteins, thereby thinning secretions and making them easier to expectorate. Together, they address both the bacterial infection and the associated mucus congestion.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take caceff tablet
Strength: Each immediate-release tablet contains 250 mg cefalexin and 150 mg carbocisteine.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is one tablet taken orally two to three times a day, or as prescribed by your doctor. The exact dose and duration depend on the type and severity of the infection, your kidney function, and your overall health. 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 require dose adjustment based on renal function. Consult your doctor. |
| Renal Impairment | Dose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment. Consult your doctor for appropriate dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment. Use with caution and consult your doctor. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose should not exceed the prescribed amount. Typically, cefalexin is not recommended to exceed 4 g per day. Carbocisteine maximum daily dose is not well established. Follow your doctor's prescription. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of caceff tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin | Major | |
| Aminoglycosides | Major | |
| Loop diuretics | Moderate | |
| Probenecid | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Warfarin
- Aminoglycosides
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Loop diuretics
- Probenecid
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may worsen stomach irritation and should be avoided while taking this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known allergy to cephalosporins or penicillins","Active peptic ulcer disease","Severe renal impairment (dose adjustment needed)","Porphyria"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustment may be required.","Prolonged use may lead to overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms.","May cause false-positive results in urine glucose tests.","Avoid in patients with a history of penicillin allergy due to cross-reactivity.","Carbocisteine should be used with caution in patients with asthma or peptic ulcer."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Cefalexin is excreted in breast milk in small amounts and is generally considered safe. Carbocisteine safety in breastfeeding is not well established. Consult your doctor.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, seizures or renal impairment may occur. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately if overdose is suspected.
⏰ 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 the course early, even if you feel better, as this can lead to antibiotic resistance. Take the tablet with a full glass of water, with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it may worsen stomach irritation. Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, as dose adjustment may be needed. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Keep out of reach of children.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may have reduced kidney function and may require dose adjustment. Monitor for signs of toxicity.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Cefalexin is generally considered safe, but carbocisteine should be used with caution.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Consult your surgeon before taking this medicine after surgery, as it may interact with other medications or affect healing.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure, as it may affect bleeding risk or interact with other medications.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Rest is important during an active infection. Avoid strenuous exercise until you feel better. Light activity like walking may be okay if tolerated.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
You may feel tired or dizzy while taking this medicine. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience these effects. Take rest as needed.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Complete the full prescribed course. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended unless prescribed for a specific chronic condition. Prolonged use of antibiotics can lead to bacterial resistance and secondary infections. Regular monitoring of kidney and liver function may be needed if used for extended periods.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Helps loosen mucus and relieve congestion.
Evidence: Well-established for symptomatic relief.Can help clear nasal passages.
Evidence: Well-established for sinus congestion.💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
No specific vaccine interactions are established. However, antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines like typhoid vaccine. Consult your doctor.
📦 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
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually as advised by your doctor. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. 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 24-48 hours, but it is important to complete the full course as prescribed.
A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
A: Cefalexin is generally considered safe in pregnancy, but carbocisteine should be used with caution. Consult your doctor.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for caceff tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
cecarb 250mg/150mg capsuleIntas Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹18.52 62.4% CHEAPER
-
carbicef 250mg/150mg suspensionSun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd ₹37.97 22.8% CHEAPER
-
carbicef 250mg/150mg capsuleSun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd ₹59.34 20.6% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure viral infections like the common cold.
Fact: This medicine contains an antibiotic (cefalexin) which 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 prescribed course to prevent bacterial resistance and recurrence of infection.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Cefalexin + Carbocisteine combination generics may be available.
Brand Alternatives
- Caceff Tablet is the brand name for this medicine.