What is Cephalexin?
Cephalexin is an oral antibiotic that belongs to the class of cephalosporins. It is primarily used to treat various bacterial infections, such as skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and respiratory tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Cephalexin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall formation, ultimately leading to cell death. The medication is available in oral tablet or suspension form and can be administered with or without food.
What is Cephalexin used for?
Cephalexin is an oral antibiotic medication that belongs to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics. It is primarily used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and bone and joint infections.
The mechanism of action of cephalexin involves inhibiting cell wall synthesis in bacteria, ultimately leading to their death or inhibition of growth. Cephalexin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that works by binding to penicillin-binding proteins on the bacterial cell surface, which in turn disrupts the synthesis of peptidoglycan, an essential component of the bacterial cell wall. As a result, the bacterial cells are unable to maintain their structural integrity and eventually die or become inactive.
Cephalexin is usually well-tolerated but may cause some side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and headache in some patients. It can also interact with certain medications, including antacids, which may reduce its effectiveness when taken together.
Cephalexin side effects
• Diarrhea • Nausea and vomiting • Abdominal pain or discomfort • Headache • Dizziness or lightheadedness • Increased risk of bleeding (if taken with anticoagulants) • Allergic reactions (rare but possible): skin rash, itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat • Rare but serious side effects: • Severe allergic reaction • Blood disorders • Increased liver enzymes • Kidney problems • Joint pain and inflammation
Disclaimer
The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information provided here is based on general research and may not apply to individual circumstances. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any content on this website. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication or health routine.