Cefalexin

Cefalexin (also known as cephalexin and sold under the brand names Keflex and Ceporex) is a type of drug called an antibiotic.

Cefalexin

Clinical data
Pronunciation	/səˈfæzələn/
Trade names	Ancef, Cefacidal, other
AHFS/Drugs.com	Monograph
Pregnancy category	AU: B1
Routes of administration	intravenous, intramuscular
Drug class	First-generation cephalosporin
ATC code	J01DB04 (WHO) QJ51DB04 (WHO)
Legal status
Legal status	In general: ℞ (Prescription only)
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability	NA
Metabolism	?
Elimination half-life	1.8 hours (given IV) 2 hours (given IM)
Excretion	kidney, unchanged
Identifiers
IUPAC name (6R,7R)-3-{[(5-methyl-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)thio]methyl}-8-oxo-7-[(1H-tetrazol-1-ylacetyl)amino]-5-thia-1-azabicyclo[4.2.0]oct-2-ene-2-carboxylic acid
CAS Number	25953-19-9 Y
PubChem CID	33255
DrugBank	DB01327 Y
ChemSpider	30723 Y
UNII	IHS69L0Y4T
KEGG	D02299 Y
ChEBI	CHEBI:474053 Y
ChEMBL	ChEMBL1435 Y
ECHA InfoCard	100.036.142
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It is a type of antibiotic called a cephalosporin. Cefalexin can treat some bacterial infections in areas including the ear, bone, joint, skin, and bladder.  It may also be used for some types of pneumonia and strep throat. Like other antibiotics, cefalexin cannot treat viral infections, such as the flu or common cold.

Cefalexin can be used in children and people over the age of 65.  Using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been shown to cause harm to the baby. People with kidney problems may need lower doses of cefalexin.

Common side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, and upset stomach.  Allergic reactions can occur, such as rash or even trouble breathing.  An allergic reaction and infection with Clostridium difficile (C. diff), a severe diarrhea, is also possible.

Cefalexin can interact with some drugs. These interactions are usually mild. BCG can treat cancer and also is a tuberculosis vaccine. Cefalexin and BCG cannot be taken together because the effects of BCG will decrease. Alcohol may affect the absorption of the drug.

This drug can be taken by mouth in the form of a tablet, capsule, or suspension.  It is taken with or without food.