1. Better Than Penicillin
While penicillin fights bacteria and infections, the body does not absorb it well, it is short-acting and it won't work on some types of bacteria. First-generation cephalosporin drugs like cephalexin were developed to work better than penicillin. Unlike penicillin, cephalosporin medications withstand enzymes from staphylococci, which break down penicillin. While the cephalosporin class includes second- and third-generation medications, those medications cannot be taken in pill form.
2. Cephalexin Fights Bacteria
Cephalexin, a generic form of Keflex, fights certain bacteria in the body like Streptococcus pneumoniae, which causes upper respiratory infections. Doctors prescribe cephalexin for skin, bone and urinary tract infections. Taking the drug for extended periods of time may allow your body to develop drug-resistant bacteria. Antibiotics do not affect viruses and won't help relieve symptoms from the common cold or flu, but antibiotics do treat sinus infections. Before your doctor prescribes cephalexin, she should test the cultures found in your body to determine if the drug fights the bacteria successfully.
3. Cephalexin Interacts With Other Drugs
Do you carry a list of all medications, vitamins and supplements you take? Cephalexin negatively interacts with metformin, an oral diabetes medication, and probenecid, which treats gout or hyperuricemia. The medication may cause a false positive for glucose. If you take an anticoagulant medication like Coumadin or natural supplements that contain ginkgo, tell your doctor before you take cephalexin. Different formulations of cephalexin may react differently to other medications.
4. The Negative Side
One of the most common things to consider before starting a new medication is the side effects. Side effects for cephalexin include gastrointestinal and hypersensitivity issues. Diarrhea occurs more often than any other side effect. Other gastrointestinal issues include the onset of pseudomembranous colitis, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. People with hypersensitivity issues may develop a rash, angioedema and, rarely, Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Talk with your doctor about all the risks associated with medications, as well as the benefits.
5. Cephalexin Is for the Dogs
Veterinarians often use cephalexin to treat bacteria infections in dogs and cats. Cephalexin fights staphylococcal bacteria, which causes most skin infections in animals. Studies indicate the antibiotic works for long-term use, defined as 6 to 8 weeks, without serious side effects or negative reactions. The dose depends on the weight of the animal. The drug may cause hyperactivity or excessive drooling in dogs and fever in cats. When prescribed in oral suspension, the medication lasts only 2 weeks and should be refrigerated.
