Virbac Lixen Palatab (Cephalexin 300mg / 600mg) Broad-Spectrum Antibacterial Chewable Tablets for Dogs & Cats (Blister Strip of 7 Tablets)

Active Pharmaceutical Matrix & Pharmacological Actions

Active Substance / ExcipientFunctional CategoryPharmacological Mode of Action & Clinical RoleCephalexin (as Monohydrate)First-Generation Cephalosporin AntibioticInhibits transpeptidase enzymes and PBPs during cell wall synthesis, causing cell lysis in susceptible Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.Palatable Flavoring MatrixPalatability EnhancerMasks pharmaceutical bitterness with natural savory flavoring agents, ensuring spontaneous pet acceptance.Pharmaceutical ExcipientsTablet Core MatrixLactose, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate ensure rapid gastric disintegration and high oral bioavailability.

Clinical Veterinary Indications

• Canine Pyoderma: Superficial folliculitis, impetigo, puppy pyoderma, and deep bacterial pyoderma (Staphylococcus pseudintermedius).

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Acute and recurrent bacterial cystitis and urethritis associated with E. coli, Proteus, and Klebsiella.

• Wound & Soft-Tissue Infections: Contaminated bite wounds, lacerations, abscesses, cellulitis, and interdigital furunculosis.

• Post-Surgical Prophylaxis: Routine infection prevention following orthopedic surgery, laparotomy, or major dental extractions.

• Respiratory Tract Infections: Bronchitis, pharyngitis, and secondary bacterial complications following viral upper respiratory infections.

Dosage & Administration Guidelines

Administer orally twice daily, or strictly as prescribed by your treating veterinarian:

• Standard Therapeutic Dosage: 15 mg to 30 mg per kg body weight administered twice daily (every 12 hours) with meals to reduce potential gastrointestinal upset.

• General Dosing Guide (Based on 15–30 mg/kg b.i.d.):

  • Cats & Small Dogs (5 kg to 10 kg): Dosed as directed by your veterinarian (often half to one 250mg/300mg tablet b.i.d.).

  • Medium Dogs (10 kg to 20 kg): 1 tablet (300mg) twice daily or tailored according to tablet strength.

  • Large Dogs (20 kg to 40 kg): 1 to 2 tablets (600mg) twice daily.

• Treatment Duration:

  • Acute Soft-Tissue Wounds & UTIs: Typically administered for 7 to 14 days (continue 48 hours past complete resolution of clinical signs).

  • Superficial Pyoderma: Typically requires 2 to 3 weeks of continuous therapy.

  • Deep Bacterial Pyoderma: May require 4 to 6 weeks of consistent treatment under regular veterinary cytology monitoring.

• Crucial Rule: Complete the full course of antibiotics as directed by your veterinarian, even if symptoms visibly improve after a few days, to avoid bacterial relapse and resistance development.

Comparison: Cephalexin (Lixen) vs. Topical Antiseptic (Ketochlor)

ParameterVirbac Lixen Palatab TabletsVirbac Ketochlor Medicated ShampooRoute of AdministrationSystemic oral therapy (chewable tablets)Topical dermal washActive MoleculeCephalexin (first-generation cephalosporin)Ketoconazole (1%) + Chlorhexidine (2%)Clinical TargetDeep dermis, hair follicles, systemic tissues, urinary tractCutaneous surface microflora & superficial stratum corneumBest Used ForModerate-to-severe pyoderma, systemic UTIs, deep lesionsSurface yeast (Malassezia), descaling, adjunct topical supportSynergistic ProtocolOften prescribed together in severe mixed pyoderma to attack bacteria from both inside and outside.

Product Specifications

ParameterDetailsBrandVirbac Animal Health (Virbac India)Product Trade NameLixen Palatab Chewable Antibiotic TabletsProduct ClassificationPrescription Veterinary Antibacterial MedicationActive CompositionCephalexin Monohydrate (Formulated in 300mg / 600mg or 250mg Palatabs)Dosage FormFlavored Chewable Scored TabletsPackaging UnitBlister Strip of 7 TabletsTarget SpeciesDogs and Cats across all life stagesTherapeutic ClassFirst-Generation Cephalosporin Systemic AntibioticPrescription StatusSchedule H / Veterinary Prescription Drug (Prescription Required)

Safety Warnings, Precautions & Contraindications

• Contraindications: Do not administer to animals with known hypersensitivity or past anaphylactic reactions to cephalosporins or beta-lactam penicillins.

• Small Herbivore Warning: Strictly contraindicated in rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and gerbils. Cephalexin disrupts the cecal microflora in these species, causing fatal clostridial enterotoxemia.

• Renal Impairment: Cephalexin is primarily eliminated by renal excretion. Use with caution in pets with pre-existing chronic kidney disease (CKD); dosage adjustments or extended dosing intervals may be required by your veterinarian.

• Potential Side Effects: Mild, self-limiting gastrointestinal signs (transient vomiting, soft stools, or mild inappetence) may occasionally occur. Administering the tablet alongside food significantly reduces stomach upset.

• Storage: Store below 25°C in a dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep the blister pack sealed until the moment of administration. Keep strictly out of reach of children and pets.