Expert: Dr Alan Galbraith - 10/23/2009

Question
I am taking since yesterday CEPHALEXIN 500 mg. since I suffered a small cut on top of my big toe in my foot. I used peroxide to desinfect it + a powder antibiotic to heal it. It was not that painfull, ok. But I had to go for an appointment with my traumatologist, and he put me first for 3 days on this drug then he sais better take it until next wk,when you finish with the few pills (500mg), instead get 1g of Cephalexin every 12 hs.I got it but my fear is that the tablet is to big, it is coated - Can I possibly halve the tablets in two when it mentions coated in the packet ? Everybody says I can- And, I am even thinking of taking tehm just for three days instead ?
Sincerely,
Monica

Answer
Dear Monica

It is OK to break the tablets in half. This is only a no-no when they are enteric coated, sustained release or extended release tablets. Other coatings are neither here nor there.

It is usually to take antibiotics, these days for two days after the symptoms have gone. No need therefore to finish the course in many cases.

Regards

Dr Alan Galbraith