Keflex

Cefalexin (USAN) or cephalexin (INN) is a first generation cephalosporin antibiotic, launched by Eli Lilly and Company in 1967, as an orally administered agent, which is generally marketed under the trade name Keflex, Nufex or Sporidex.

Since 2008, cefalexin has become the most popular cephalosporin antibiotic in the United States, with over 25 million prescriptions of its general versions alone, for $255 million in sales.

Cephalexin is being used in the treatment of urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and also to treat acne.

Besides the fact of being a reasonable first-line treatment for cellulites, it is also a viable alternative to penicillins in patients suffering from penicillin hypersensitivity. Constant caution is highly recommended when prescribing cephalosporins to people with history of genuine penicillin hypersensitivity. Nevertheless, cephalexin along with other first-generation cephalosporins has a reserved cross-allergy in patients suffering from penicillin hypersensitivity.

Cephalexin side effects include headache, diarrhea, dizziness, joint pain, indigestion, stomach pain, tiredness. It might also cause yellowing of the eyes and skin, blistered, swollen, red or peeling skin, atypical bruising or bleeding, reduced urination, serious cramps and confusion. This drug is very unlikely to cause an allergic reaction, but ask at once medical attention if it occurs. Such allergic reactions include symptoms like swelling, rash, itching or trouble breathing.
Cephalexin is marketed by common pharmaceutical companies under various different brand names, including: Apo-Cephalex, Biocef, Ialex, Ibilex, Cephalexin, Ceporex, Cilex, Cefanox, Cephabos, Keflex, Keftal, Keforal, Kefexin, Keftab, Keflet, Larixin, Lopilexin, Ospexin, Panixine Disperdose, Novo-Lexin, Sporidex, Tenkorex and Zephalexin.
The recommended dosage of cephalexin for adults and children – six years and older – is from 1 to 4 grams per day, for patients with renal dysfunction needing extended period between doses.