KEY POINTS
- Cephalexin (Keflex) is a first-generation cephalosporin and beta-lactam antibiotic
- Works by binding to penicillin-binding-proteins and interfering with cell wall synthesis in susceptible bacteria
- Has activity versus methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and many Streptococcus species
- Has activity versus sensitive Proteus spp., E. coli, and Klebsiella spp. – “PEcK”
- Unless tested directly, is routine to extrapolate cefazolin sensitivities to cephalexin
- Common use is skin and soft tissue infections, but can also be used for other infections such as urinary tract infection
- Cefazolin (Ancef) is the injectable counterpart of oral cephalexin
- Frequency is usually 2-4 doses per day
- Adjust doses for kidney dysfunction
- Compliance can be an issue due to the frequency
RESOURCES