Cephalexin detailed information

Cefalexin (INN) or cephalexin (USAN) is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It is an orally administered agent with a similar antimicrobial spectrum to the intravenous agents cefalotin and cefazolin. It is commonly marketed under the trade name Keflex (Lilly) or Sporidex (Ranbaxy).

Indications
Cefalexin is used to treat urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections (including sinusitis, otitis media, pharyngitis, tonsillitis and pneumonia, bronchitis), skin and soft tissue infections.

Although it is not generally considered first-line treatment for any indication, it is a useful alternative to penicillins in patients with penicillin hypersensitivity. There is, however, cross-reactivity in 10% of patients with hypersensitivity to penicillins and carbapenems.

Formulations
Cefalexin is commonly marketed as tablets(250 mg and 500 mg), capsules, and powder for oral suspension (125 mg and 250 mg).

It is marketed by generic pharmaceutical manufacturers under a wide range of brand names, including: Apo-Cephalex, Biocef, Cefanox, Ceporex, Cephabos, Cilex, Ialex, Ibilex, Kefexin, Keflet, Keflex, Keforal, Keftab, Keftal, Lopilexin, Novo-Lexin, Ospexin, Zephalexin, Panixine Disperdose and Sporidex.

A version of Keflex 750 mg capsules is marketed for twice-daily dosage, to improve patients' compliance. However, it is not a sustained release formulation, and since it is more expensive than the older strengths, some physicians prescribe three 250 mg capsules to be taken twice daily, as a cheaper alternative.