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Cephalexin

Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It belongs to the cephalosporin antibiotic pharmacological class and is used for bacterial infections. The dosage forms include hard capsules and tablets; Keflex is a tablet product containing cephalexin. Clinical advice guides use in children and in pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Medicine containing Cephalexin

Keflex

Bacterial Infection

250 · 500mg

Keflex is cephalexin in a capsule for bacterial infection. It is a first-generation cephalosporin that binds penicillin-binding proteins, available in several strengths and pack sizes. Each option lists its price per capsule.

FromUS$0.79/ tabletView

Key points

  • Cephalexin begins to act in about 1 hour, and its effect lasts around 6 to 8 hours.
  • It is commonly used in paediatric patients, with clinical advice guiding use.
  • A known interaction is with probenecid.

What cephalexin is used for

Cephalexin is used for bacterial infections. The bacterial infection page describes the condition. Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. The antibiotics category covers this group of medicines.

How it works

Cephalexin binds to penicillin-binding proteins in bacteria. This inhibits peptidoglycan synthesis, which is needed to build the bacterial cell wall. Blocking that step leads to bacterial cell death. The action targets the bacterial cell wall.

Forms and brands

Hard capsules are a dosage form of cephalexin. Keflex tablets contain cephalexin in 250 mg and 500 mg strengths and are used for bacterial infection (Keflex). Pharmacy partners in India ship to Malaysia in discreet packaging.

Safety

People with hypersensitivity to cephalosporins should not take cephalexin. Tell your doctor before any planned surgery. Complete the full course as your clinician advises. Diarrhoea and nausea are minor side effects. Rash and vaginal discharge may also occur. Anaphylaxis is a serious side effect and requires immediate medical attention. Severe skin reactions are also serious and require immediate medical attention. Probenecid interacts with cephalexin. Pregnancy suitability depends on the specific medicine and individual circumstances; confirm with a qualified clinician or pharmacist before use. For breastfeeding, confirm suitability with a qualified clinician or pharmacist before use.

Further reading

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