Product image of Keflex (Cefalexin) supplied by GNH India

Keflex

Active Ingredient:
Cefalexin
Origin:
EU

Keflex (Cefalexin)

Cefalexin, the active ingredient in Keflex, is a first‑generation cephalosporin presented as an oral tablet for oral use. It treats bacterial infections of the skin, respiratory tract, urinary system and bone in adults and children as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

GNH India supplies Keflex as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Phadisco Ltd

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Indications & Clinical Uses

Cefalexin (Keflex) is a cephalosporin antibiotic that targets bacterial cell‑wall synthesis, making it effective for several common infection types.

  • Skin and soft‑tissue infections: resolves cellulitis, impetigo and wound infections.
  • Respiratory tract infections: treats acute bronchitis, sinusitis and community‑acquired pneumonia.
  • Urinary tract infections: clears cystitis and uncomplicated pyelonephritis.
  • Bone and joint infections: used for osteomyelitis and septic arthritis.

How It Works

  • Cefalexin exerts its antibacterial activity by binding to penicillin‑binding proteins located on the bacterial cell wall. This binding inhibits the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis, weakening the cell wall and leading to osmotic lysis of susceptible Gram‑positive and some Gram‑negative organisms. The drug is absorbed orally and eliminated primarily unchanged by the kidneys.

Side Effects

Cefalexin may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

  • Nausea: mild stomach upset.
  • Diarrhea: loose stools, sometimes watery.
  • Abdominal pain: cramping or discomfort.
  • Vomiting: occasional emesis.
  • Rash: mild skin redness or itching.
  • Headache: transient head pain.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction with breathing difficulty.
  • Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: serious skin and mucous membrane disorder.
  • Clostridioides difficile‑associated diarrhea: severe colitis.
  • Blood dyscrasias: neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, or anemia.
  • Liver enzyme elevation: hepatitis or jaundice.

Precautions & Warnings

Before prescribing cefalexin, clinicians should consider several precautionary measures to ensure safe use.

  • Assess allergy history: avoid in patients with known cephalosporin or penicillin hypersensitivity.
  • Evaluate renal function: dose adjustment may be needed in impaired clearance.
  • Monitor for superinfection: prolonged use can lead to fungal overgrowth.
  • Use cautiously in pregnancy: only if benefits outweigh risks.
  • Observe for gastrointestinal effects: advise patients to stay hydrated.
  • Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Avoid Interactions

Cefalexin can interact with other medicines, influencing its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

  • Methotrexate: reduced clearance may increase toxicity.
  • Cytotoxic agents (e.g., cyclophosphamide): heightened myelosuppression risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • Probenecid: decreases renal excretion, raising cefalexin plasma levels.
  • Warfarin: may enhance anticoagulant effect, requiring INR monitoring.
  • Oral contraceptives: possible reduction in effectiveness, advise backup contraception.

Frequently Asked Questions

Keflex (cefalexin) is prescribed for a range of bacterial infections, including skin and soft‑tissue infections such as cellulitis and impetigo, respiratory tract infections like acute bronchitis and sinusitis, urinary tract infections such as cystitis, and bone or joint infections including osteomyelitis. It is used in both adult and pediatric patients when a cephalosporin is appropriate.

Cefalexin belongs to the first‑generation cephalosporin class. It binds to penicillin‑binding proteins on the bacterial cell wall, blocking the final step of peptidoglycan cross‑linking. This inhibition weakens the cell wall, causing bacterial lysis and death, particularly against Gram‑positive organisms and some Gram‑negative bacteria.

The dosage of Keflex is individualized by the prescribing clinician based on the type and severity of infection, patient age, weight, and renal function. Typical adult regimens range from 250 mg to 1 g taken two to four times daily, but exact dosing must be confirmed by a healthcare professional.

Safety data for cefalexin in pregnancy and lactation are limited. It should be used only when the potential benefit to the mother outweighs any possible risk to the fetus or infant. Women who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding should discuss the risks and alternatives with their doctor.

To request Keflex, visit the product page on gnhindia.com, enter the required quantity, and submit the enquiry form. GNH India works with hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, verifies trade or institutional credentials, and then provides pricing, availability, shipping details (including any cold‑chain requirements) and necessary import documentation.

Both Keflex (cefalexin) and amoxicillin are oral beta‑lactam antibiotics, but they belong to different classes—cephalosporin versus penicillin. Cefalexin has stronger activity against certain Gram‑positive organisms and is less affected by beta‑lactamase enzymes, while amoxicillin offers broader coverage of some Gram‑negative bacteria. Choice depends on the suspected pathogen, resistance patterns and patient tolerance.

Keflex tablets should be stored at room temperature, below 25 °C, in their original packaging to protect them from moisture and light. Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not store in bathrooms or near heat sources.

Keflex is taken orally, usually as a tablet swallowed whole with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food; however, taking it with food may reduce stomach upset. The exact frequency and duration are determined by the prescribing clinician.

Serious adverse reactions include severe allergic responses such as anaphylaxis, skin conditions like Stevens‑Johnson syndrome, and Clostridioides difficile‑associated colitis. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread rash, persistent diarrhea, or signs of liver dysfunction.

Keflex should be avoided in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to cefalexin, other cephalosporins, or penicillins. Patients with severe renal impairment may require dose adjustment, and those with a history of severe allergic reactions should not use the drug without careful medical supervision.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

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