Cephalexin
Antibiotic
First-generation cephalosporin antibiotic for skin and respiratory infections.
Generic name: Cephalexin
Brand names: Keflex, Cephalexin Stada
Prescription required
Dosage
Adults: 250–500 mg every 6 hours for 7–14 days. Children: 25–50 mg/kg/day divided every 6 hours.
Side effects
Diarrhea, nausea, rash. Rarely: pseudomembranous colitis, Stevens–Johnson syndrome.
Contraindications
Cephalosporin hypersensitivity; caution with penicillin allergy (≈10 % cross-reactivity).
Description
Cephalexin is a bactericidal beta-lactam active against most gram-positive cocci (Streptococcus, Staphylococcus) and many gram-negative organisms. Common Vietnamese first-line for cellulitis, impetigo, mild pneumonia, and uncomplicated UTI.