Cephalexin Used For

Cephalexin is a versatile antibiotic that belongs to the group of cephalosporins, which are similar to penicillins but with a broader spectrum of activity. It is used to treat various bacterial infections by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, ultimately leading to the death of the bacteria. The medication is effective against a range of Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria.

Overview of Cephalexin

Cephalexin is administered orally, usually in the form of capsules or suspension, and it is absorbed well from the gastrointestinal tract. It is distributed widely throughout the body and reaches therapeutic concentrations in many tissues and fluids, including bone, where it can be particularly useful for treating osteomyelitis (bone infections).

Common Uses of Cephalexin

1. Respiratory Tract Infections: Cephalexin is commonly prescribed for the treatment of respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinusitis, especially when caused by susceptible bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.

2. Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: It is used for treating skin infections like cellulitis, impetigo, and folliculitis, as well as for soft tissue infections such as abscesses and infected wounds, provided the causative organisms are susceptible.

3. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Cephalexin can be effective against UTIs, including cystitis and pyelonephritis, especially those caused by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis, among other bacteria.

4. Bone and Joint Infections: For the treatment of bone and joint infections (osteomyelitis and septic arthritis), cephalexin can be used, particularly when the causative bacteria are susceptible to the drug.

5. Genital Infections: It may be used in the treatment of certain genital infections, though the choice of antibiotic often depends on the specific pathogen and local resistance patterns.

Important Considerations

• Allergic Reactions: Patients with a known allergy to penicillins should use cephalexin with caution due to the risk of cross-reactivity, although this is less common than previously thought.
• Dosage and Administration: The dosage of cephalexin varies depending on the type and severity of the infection. It is crucial to complete the full treatment course as prescribed by the healthcare provider to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to reduce the development of antibiotic resistance.
• Side Effects: Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), allergic reactions (rash, itching), and in rare cases, more serious side effects like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea.
• Interactions: Cephalexin can interact with other medications, such as certain antacids, which may reduce its absorption. It’s essential to inform healthcare providers about all medications being taken.

Conclusion

Cephalexin is a valuable antibiotic in the treatment of various bacterial infections, offering a broad spectrum of activity and relatively good tolerability. However, its use, like that of all antibiotics, should be guided by susceptibility testing whenever possible and prescribed judiciously to combat the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.