Administering medication to children, especially antibiotics, can be challenging. One common question that arises is: Can Cephalexin Capsules Be Opened And Sprinkled On Food? This article provides information on cephalexin administration and addresses concerns about opening capsules, focusing on ensuring accurate dosage and palatability.
Understanding Cephalexin and Its Use
Cephalexin is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. It’s available in different forms, including capsules and tablets. While healthcare professionals generally prefer children to swallow medication whole, it’s not always feasible.
Can You Open Cephalexin Capsules?
According to general guidelines, cephalexin capsules can be opened, and the contents mixed with liquid or soft food to ease administration. This is particularly helpful for children who have difficulty swallowing pills.
Important Considerations Before Opening Capsules
- Allergies: This process should not be performed by anyone with a known allergy to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics due to the risk of cross-reactivity.
- Dosage Accuracy: Ensure the entire dose is consumed when mixing with food or liquid.
- Consult a Professional: Always consult your pediatrician or pharmacist before altering any medication form.
How to Open and Administer Cephalexin Capsules
- Prepare: Gather the cephalexin capsule, a small amount of soft food (applesauce, yogurt, or jam), or a strongly flavored drink (such as blackcurrant cordial), and an oral syringe if administering via liquid.
- Open the Capsule: Carefully open the cephalexin capsule.
- Mix: Empty the contents into a small amount of the selected food or liquid. A teaspoonful is usually sufficient to ensure the child consumes the entire dose.
- Administer Immediately: Give the mixture to the child immediately after mixing. Do not store it for later use.
Masking the Bitter Taste of Cephalexin
One common issue with opening cephalexin capsules is the bitter taste of the medication. Here are some tips to help mask the taste:
- Use Strong Flavors: Mix the cephalexin powder with strongly flavored foods or drinks that your child enjoys.
- Small Amounts: Use only a small amount of food or liquid to ensure the entire dose is consumed.
- Oral Syringe: An oral syringe can help deliver the medication directly to the back of the throat, minimizing taste exposure when using liquid.
Cephalexin Tablets: Crushing and Dispersing
Cephalexin is also available in tablet form.
Dispersing or Crushing Cephalexin Tablets
Cephalexin tablets are film-coated but can be crushed and mixed with liquid or soft food. Crushing tablets should not be undertaken by anyone with a penicillin or cephalosporin allergy.
How to Disperse Cephalexin Tablets:
- Place the tablet in the barrel of a 10mL oral syringe.
- Replace the plunger.
- Draw up approximately 5mL of water and 2mL of air.
- Shake well and allow to disperse (this may take up to 10 minutes).
- Ensure all contents of the syringe are given.
Alternatively, the tablet may be mixed with 5 to 10mL of water in small glass or medicine cup and stirred well.
Masking the taste
The crushed tablet will taste bitter so it can be helpful to use a strongly flavoured drink (e.g. blackcurrant cordial) or food (e.g. jam, apple sauce, yoghurt) that the child likes:
- Use a small amount of food or drink (e.g. a teaspoonful) so you can be sure the child eats it all and swallows the whole dose
- It might be helpful to use an oral syringe for liquids
- After mixing the crushed tablet with food or drink, give it straight away
Important Considerations and Precautions
- Complete the Course: Ensure the entire course of antibiotics is completed, even if symptoms improve.
- Storage: Store cephalexin capsules as directed by the pharmacist, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
- Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, and consult a healthcare provider if they occur.
Conclusion
In summary, opening cephalexin capsules and mixing the contents with food is an acceptable method of administration, especially for children who struggle to swallow pills. Always take necessary precautions, such as being mindful of allergies and masking the taste effectively. When in doubt, consult with a healthcare provider to ensure proper administration and dosage.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.
