Cephalexin (Keflex)

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Generic Name

Cephalexin

Trade Name

Keflex

Indication

Skin infections, pneumonia, UTI, otitis media

Action

Bactericidal: binds to bacterial cell wall leading to cell death

Therapeutic Class

Anti-infectives

Pharmacologic Class

Cephalosporin 1st generation

Nursing Considerations

• Contraindicated with cephalosporin and serious penicillin allergies. • May need lead to seizures, pseudomembranous colitis, diarrhea, phlebitis at IV site, anaphylaxis • Assess infection and allergies • Obtain cultures prior to therapy • Monitor bowel function • May lead to superinfection • May cause elevated liver enzymes