Keflex (cephalexin) is an antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections in both adults and children at least 1 year old[5]. It is commonly prescribed for:
- Respiratory tract infections, including bronchitis and pneumonia[1][2][3][4][5][7][8]
- Ear infections (otitis media)[1][2][3][4][5][7][8]
- Skin and skin structure infections[1][2][3][4][5][7][8]
- Bone infections[1][2][3][4][5][7][8]
- Urinary tract and genitourinary infections, including acute prostatitis[1][2][3][4][5][7][8]
Keflex works by stopping the growth of bacteria by interfering with their cell wall synthesis, which eventually leads to the rupture and death of the bacteria[2][4][8]. It is effective against a range of bacteria but should only be used for infections proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria to avoid antibiotic resistance[1][7].
Keflex does not treat viral infections such as the common cold or flu[4][5][8]. It is typically taken orally in capsule, tablet, or liquid form[3][6]. If you are uncertain why you were prescribed Keflex, consult your healthcare provider[6].
References
- [1] Keflex (Cephalexin): Side Effects, Uses, Dosage
- [2] Cephalexin: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action – DrugBank
- [3] Cephalexin (Keflet, Keflex, Keftab): Uses, Side Effects
- [4] Cephalexin: Side effects, dosage, uses, and more
- [5] Keflex Uses, Dosage & Side Effects
- [6] Cefalexin (Cephalexin)
- [7] Keflex – accessdata.fda.gov
- [8] Cephalexin: MedlinePlus Drug Information