Cephalexin
Cephalexin is an oral first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used for selected susceptible bacterial infections. It is not a treatment for viral illness.
Key points
- Cephalexin is often considered for selected skin, urinary or respiratory bacterial infections based on likely susceptibility.
- A history of severe immediate penicillin or cephalosporin allergy requires careful assessment.
- Persistent watery or bloody diarrhoea can occur during or after antibiotic treatment and needs prompt review.
Listings are for comparison only; suitability and supply depend on clinician and pharmacy checks, prescription requirements and the infection being treated.
What cephalexin is used for
Cephalexin may be used for selected bacterial infections. The diagnosis, infection site and resistance pattern determine whether it is appropriate.
How it works
Cephalexin disrupts bacterial cell-wall formation. Completing the prescribed course and avoiding unnecessary use helps reduce treatment failure and resistance.
Important safety checks
Review antibiotic allergies, kidney function, pregnancy, previous antibiotic-associated colitis and anticoagulant treatment.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, fainting, blistering skin, severe or bloody diarrhoea, confusion or markedly reduced urine.