Cephalexin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections in various parts of the body. It belongs to the class of cephalosporin antibiotics and works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth
. Common uses of cephalexin include treatment of:
- Respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis
- Skin infections
- Ear infections
- Bone infections
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder infections
- Prostate infections
- Genitourinary tract infections
Cephalexin is effective against many gram-positive bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species
. It is not effective against viral infections like colds or flu
. The medication is available in various oral forms including capsules, tablets, and liquid suspension, with common dosages including 250 mg, 500 mg, and 750 mg
. The typical treatment duration ranges from 7 to 14 days, depending on the infection
. In summary, cephalexin 500 mg (or other doses) is primarily used to treat bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, skin, ears, bones, urinary and genital tracts
