Rilexine for Dogs

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.

Cephalexin (brand name Rilexine) is an FDA-approved veterinary antibiotic used to treat bacterial skin infections in dogs.

Veterinarians may also prescribe it for other types of bacterial infections, including wounds and surgical site infections.

What Is Cephalexin Used for in Dogs?

Rilexine (active ingredient cephalexin) is a veterinary prescription antibiotic that is FDA approved to treat bacterial skin infections in dogs.  Rilexine is available in chewable tablets. Speak with your vet if Rilexine is right for your dog.

Your veterinarian may also prescribe it to treat other types of infections, such as wounds, surgical site infections, and occasionally bladder infections,

Prescribing Rilexine for other conditions besides bacterial skin infections is called extra-label or off-label use because this use isn’t described on the drug label.

Generic cephalexin is only FDA approved for human use and is currently not FDA approved as a veterinary medication. However, cephalexin is readily utilized in the veterinary field, and veterinarians can legally prescribe certain human drugs in animals in certain circumstances. This is also extra-label or off-label use.

How Cephalexin Works in Dogs

Cephalexin is an antibiotic in the cephalosporin class. It works to kill vulnerable bacteria by interfering with the production of their cell walls.

Cephalexin is ineffective against viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Inappropriate use of antibiotics, including cephalexin, can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, so it is important to use antibiotics exactly as directed by your veterinarian.

Cephalexin Considerations for Dogs

Rilexine (active ingredient cephalexin) should not be given to dogs with a known allergy to cephalexin or to any of the cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotics.

Safety studies had not been performed at the time of this publication to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of Rilexine in breeding, pregnant, or nursing dogs.

Giving Rilexine with certain medications can result in health risks to your dog, so it’s important to discuss your dog’s medications, including vitamins and supplements, and medical conditions with your veterinarian.

Cephalexin Directions

Follow the directions on the drug label or as provided by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will prescribe a dosage based on your dog’s weight.

Follow the directions closely. Do not give more or less than is prescribed by your veterinarian and finish the treatment course, even if your dog’s infection seems to have improved.

Rilexine can be given with or without food. Giving it with a small meal may help reduce vomiting or other digestive upset.

Missed a Dose?

If you forget to give a dose of cephalexin, give it your dog when you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not give extra or double doses.

Possible Side Effects of Cephalexin in Dogs

The most common side effects of cephalexin involve digestive upset, including:

• Diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Decreased appetite

Additional side effects may include a decreased energy level, itching/scratching, increased thirst, and drowsiness.

Rarely, allergic reactions can occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to an antibiotic may include:

• A skin rash (especially in the ears)

• Hives (raised lumps that suddenly appear on the skin)

• Facial swelling

• Pale gum color

• Trouble breathing and/or collapse

If your dog shows any signs of an allergic reaction, immediately seek emergency veterinary care. Do not give cephalexin to a dog with a known allergy to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics.

Human Side Effects

While cephalexin is a human prescription medication, there are different dosages and side effects that can occur in humans. People that are allergic to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics should avoid contact with cephalexin. If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, call your physician or the national Poison Control Center hotline at 1-800-222-1222.

Monitoring

No specific monitoring is required for this medication, but your veterinarian may recommend routine testing depending on your dog’s individual needs, other medications they may be on and/or the issue that initially caused your pet to be placed on this medication.

When to Call Your Vet:

• Severe side effects are seen (see above)

• Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment

• You see or suspect an overdose

• Call your vet or pharmacist if you have additional questions or concerns about the use of cephalexin

Cephalexin Overdose in Dogs Information

Symptoms of an overdose of cephalexin may include severe vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling and watering of the eyes. Large overdoses may cause damage to the kidneys, liver, and changes in blood cell counts.

If you suspect an overdose, immediately contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply.

Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661

ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435

How to Store Cephalexin for Dogs

Follow these tips when storing your dog’s cephalexin:

• Cephalexin should be stored at controlled temperatures between 68 to 77 F (20 to 25 C).

• Brief exposure to temperatures 59 to 86 F (15 to 30 C) are acceptable.

• Always confirm storage requirements by reviewing the label.

• Keep the container tightly closed to protect this medication from moisture and light.

• Compounded medications should be stored according to the compounding pharmacy’s label.

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.