RANCEPH Capsules are prescription-only antibiotics used to treat a range of bacterial infections. They contain cefalexin (also written as cephalexin), a well-established antibiotic from the cephalosporin family. These capsules are commonly prescribed in South Africa for infections affecting the chest, ears, skin, urinary tract, and teeth, among others.
- Prescription medicine (Schedule 4)
What it is and what it is used for
What RANCEPH Capsules contain
RANCEPH Capsules contain cefalexin monohydrate, which is equivalent to cefalexin anhydrous. Cefalexin is the active ingredient that treats infection.
Cefalexin belongs to a group of antibiotics called cephalosporins. These medicines are widely used because they are effective against many common bacteria.
What RANCEPH Capsules are used for
RANCEPH Capsules are prescribed for infections caused by bacteria that are sensitive to cefalexin. According to the source information, these include:
- Infections of the respiratory tract (lungs and airways)
- Otitis media (middle ear infections)
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Infections of the reproductive system, such as prostatitis
- Dental infections
Important: RANCEPH Capsules do not work against viral illnesses such as flu or the common cold.
How it works
Bacteria survive by building strong outer walls that protect them. Cefalexin works by interfering with how these bacterial walls are made. When the wall cannot form properly, the bacteria weaken, burst, and die.
In simple terms, RANCEPH Capsules help your body get rid of harmful bacteria so that the infection can clear and symptoms can improve.
Who should NOT use this medicine
Do not take RANCEPH Capsules if any of the following apply to you:
- You are allergic to cefalexin, other cephalosporin antibiotics, or any ingredient in the capsule.
- You have had a serious allergic reaction to similar antibiotics in the past.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding without first consulting a doctor.
If you are unsure whether any of these apply to you, speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting the medicine.
Warnings and precautions
Conditions needing extra care
Tell your doctor before using RANCEPH Capsules if you have any of the following:
- Severe or ongoing diarrhoea
Diarrhoea that is watery, persistent, or contains blood or mucus may be a sign of a serious bowel condition called pseudomembranous colitis. This needs urgent medical attention. - Kidney problems
If your kidneys do not work well, your doctor may need to adjust the dose. This helps prevent the medicine from building up in your body. - Scheduled blood or urine tests
Cefalexin can affect some laboratory test results. Always inform healthcare staff that you are taking this antibiotic.
Driving and using machines
RANCEPH Capsules may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion in some people. If this happens to you, do not drive, use tools, or operate machinery until you feel fully alert again.
Alcohol use
Alcohol use is not specified in the source. If you are unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Sugar intolerance
RANCEPH Capsules contain lactose. If you are lactose intolerant or have been advised to avoid certain sugars, discuss this with your healthcare provider before using the medicine.
Pregnancy, planning pregnancy, and breastfeeding
RANCEPH Capsules are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless prescribed by a doctor.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor before starting treatment. Your healthcare provider will decide whether the benefit outweighs any potential risk.
Interactions
Medicines that may interact
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, or have recently taken, any other medicines. According to the source, particular care is needed with:
- Probenecid (used for gout)
This medicine may increase levels of cefalexin in the body. - Diuretics, such as furosemide (used for fluid retention or high blood pressure)
Using these together with cefalexin may raise the risk of kidney-related side effects. - Other antibiotics, such as gentamicin or tobramycin
Combined use may increase the risk of kidney toxicity.
Food and drink
RANCEPH Capsules can be taken before, during, or after meals. Food does not reduce how well the medicine works.
Swallow each capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsule.
How to take (Step-by-step)
General instructions
- Take RANCEPH Capsules exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Follow the dose and timing instructions carefully.
- Do not share your antibiotics with anyone else.
- Always swallow the capsule whole with water.
Adult dosing
For adults, typical doses are:
- 250 mg every 6 hours, or
- 500 mg every 12 hours
For severe infections, the total daily dose may be increased to up to 4 g per day, taken in divided doses, as decided by a doctor.
Children’s dosing
Children are usually prescribed cefalexin based on body weight:
- 25–50 mg per kilogram of body weight per day
- Given in divided doses every 6 hours
The exact dose and duration will be decided by a doctor.
Elderly patients and kidney problems
In older adults or people with kidney impairment, the doctor may adjust the dose depending on kidney function.
Duration of treatment
Some infections, such as streptococcal throat infections and certain skin infections, need treatment for at least 10 days. Always complete the full course, even if you start feeling better.
Dosing table
| Patient group | Typical dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults | 250 mg | Every 6 hours | As prescribed |
| Adults | 500 mg | Every 12 hours | As prescribed |
| Severe infections (adults) | Up to 4 g per day | Divided doses | Doctor supervision required |
| Children | 25–50 mg/kg/day | Every 6 hours | Based on body weight |
| Elderly / renal impairment | Adjusted by doctor | Individualised | Based on kidney function |
Missed dose
If you forget a dose:
- Take it as soon as you remember.
- If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose.
- Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one.
Overdose
Taking too much RANCEPH Capsules may cause:
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Confusion or agitation
- Seizures in severe cases
If an overdose is suspected, contact your doctor, pharmacist, or a poison control centre immediately. Take the medicine packaging or leaflet with you.
Stopping treatment
Do not stop taking RANCEPH Capsules early, even if you feel better. Stopping too soon may allow bacteria to survive and cause the infection to return.
Possible side effects
Like all medicines, RANCEPH Capsules can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.
Common side effects
These occur in some patients:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
- Changes in blood counts, which may cause tiredness or easy bruising
If these effects are mild, they often settle on their own. Tell your doctor if they become troublesome.
Less common side effects
These are reported less often:
- Dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion (more likely in people with kidney problems)
- Stomach cramps
- Vaginal thrush (a fungal infection)
- Signs of liver inflammation, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) or dark urine
- Seizures (rare but serious)
Serious side effects — seek urgent help
Stop taking the medicine and get medical help immediately if you notice:
- Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a severe rash (possible severe allergic reaction)
- A skin rash with fever and joint pain (serum sickness-like reaction)
- Blistering or peeling of the skin
- Severe diarrhoea with blood or mucus
Effects on laboratory tests
RANCEPH Capsules may affect certain test results, including:
- Liver enzyme tests
- Blood tests such as the Coombs’ test
- Urine tests for glucose, which may show false-positive results
Always tell healthcare staff that you are taking cefalexin before having tests done.
Storage and disposal
- Store RANCEPH Capsules below 25 °C.
- Protect from heat and moisture.
- Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.
- Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.
Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of unused or expired capsules safely.
What the medicine contains
Active ingredient
- RANCEPH 250 Capsules: cefalexin 250 mg
- RANCEPH 500 Capsules: cefalexin 500 mg
Other ingredients
Both strengths contain lactose and magnesium stearate as excipients (inactive ingredients).
Pack information and appearance
Capsule description
- RANCEPH 250 mg
Dark green and white capsule, marked RX656, size 2, containing white to off-white granular powder. - RANCEPH 500 mg
Dark green and light green capsule, marked RX657, size 0, containing white to off-white granular powder.
Pack sizes
- RANCEPH 250 Capsules: cartons containing either 2 × 10 or 10 × 10 capsules in blister strips.
- RANCEPH 500 Capsules: cartons containing either 2 × 10 or 10 × 10 capsules in blister strips.
Practical FAQs
Can I take RANCEPH Capsules with food?
Yes. The capsules may be taken before, during, or after meals.
Should I finish the full course even if I feel better?
Yes. Completing the full course helps prevent the infection from returning.
Can RANCEPH Capsules cause diarrhoea?
Yes. Diarrhoea is a common side effect. Severe or persistent diarrhoea needs medical attention.
Is this medicine suitable during pregnancy?
It is not recommended unless prescribed by a doctor.
Can it affect lab test results?
Yes. It may change some blood and urine test results.
Does it contain lactose?
Yes. Each capsule contains lactose.
Manufacturer and registration holder: Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals (Pty) Ltd, Roodepoort, South Africa.
Zuri is a passionate medical content writer who loves making health information simple and approachable for everyone. She focuses on breaking down complex medical topics into clear, everyday language so readers can truly understand their health and feel confident about the choices they make.
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