Cefalexin

Cefalexin is an oral first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that kills susceptible bacteria by disrupting bacterial cell-wall synthesis.

Penicillin-binding proteins: Bacterial enzymes that build and remodel peptidoglycan in the cell wall. Cefalexin binds these enzymes, interrupting the cross-linking that strengthens bacterial cell walls.
Urinary tract infection: An infection affecting any part of the urinary system, including the bladder or kidneys. Cefalexin is sometimes prescribed for susceptible bacteria causing uncomplicated urinary infections.
Cefadroxil: An oral first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic closely related to cefalexin. It is a near alternative with similar antibacterial coverage and a longer dosing interval.
Cephalosporin: A family of beta-lactam antibiotics that inhibit bacterial cell-wall synthesis. Cefalexin is an early-generation member of this antibiotic family.
Peptidoglycan: A mesh-like polymer that gives most bacterial cell walls their strength and shape. Cefalexin weakens bacteria by blocking enzymes that assemble this cell-wall material.
Cellulitis: A spreading bacterial infection of the deeper layers of skin and underlying tissue. Cefalexin can treat cellulitis when likely or confirmed bacteria are susceptible.
Cefazolin: A first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic administered mainly by injection. It provides a comparable early-generation option when treatment requires parenteral administration.
First-generation cephalosporin: An early cephalosporin subgroup generally active against many Gram-positive bacteria and a limited set of Gram-negative bacteria. This subgroup designation summarizes cefalexin's characteristic antibacterial spectrum.
Beta-lactam: A class of antibiotics characterized by a four-membered beta-lactam ring that inhibits bacterial cell-wall synthesis. Cefalexin belongs to this antibiotic class and shares its cell-wall target.
Impetigo: A contagious superficial bacterial skin infection that commonly causes crusted sores or blisters. Oral cefalexin is an option for some cases when systemic treatment is needed.

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FlucloxacillinCompared with: Cefalexin can cover some similar skin infections, but prescribing depends on allergy, susceptibility, and guidance.