section name header

Pronunciation ⬇

sef-a-LEX-in

Classifications ⬆ ⬇

Therapeutic Classification: anti-infectives

Pharmacologic Classification: first generation cephalosporins

Indications ⬆ ⬇

REMS


Action ⬆ ⬇

  • Binds to bacterial cell wall membrane, causing cell death.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Bactericidal action against susceptible bacteria.

Spectrum:

Pharmacokinetics ⬆ ⬇

Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration.

Distribution: Widely distributed. Crosses the placenta and enters breast milk in low concentrations. Poor CSF penetration.

Metabolism/Excretion: Excreted almost entirely unchanged in the urine.

Half-Life: Neonates: 5 hr; Children: 2.5 hr; Adults: 50–80 min (↑ in renal impairment).

Time/Action Profile ⬆ ⬇

(blood levels)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
POrapid1 hr6–12 hr

Contraind./Precautions ⬆ ⬇

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects ⬆ ⬇

Interactions ⬆ ⬇

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage ⬆ ⬇

Availability ⬆ ⬇

(Generic available)

Assessment ⬆ ⬇

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation ⬆ ⬇

Patient/Family Teaching ⬆ ⬇

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes ⬆ ⬇

US Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Keflex

Pill Image

cephalexin_195-8710.jpg

Code ⬆

NDC Code