cephalexin

cephalexin /sef′əlek″sin/ , an oral first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed for oral treatment of selected infections caused by susceptible bacterial strains, especially lower respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin and soft tissue, and bone and joint infections. It is also used as a prophylaxis against bacterial endocarditis in high-risk patients undergoing surgical or dental procedures. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Known hypersensitivity to this drug or to any cephalosporin medication prohibits its use, as does severely impaired renal function. It is used with caution in patients who are allergic to penicillin or other drugs. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Nausea, diarrhea, and hypersensitivity reactions may occur.