Cephalexin for cellulitis

Cephalexin works against certain bacteria that can cause cellulitis. It may not be suitable for every infection, particularly when the suspected bacteria, wound type, allergy history, kidney function, or illness severity points to another option. A prescription is based on an examination rather than the name of the condition alone. Redness, warmth, tenderness, and swelling can also occur with other problems, so an assessment helps confirm whether an antibiotic is appropriate.

Take cephalexin exactly as prescribed and follow the label about timing and food. Complete the prescribed course unless the prescriber changes the plan, and do not save doses for a future rash. Tell the clinician about a previous reaction to cephalosporins or penicillins, kidney disease, pregnancy, and other medicines. Contact the prescriber about troublesome diarrhoea, vomiting, or a rash. Resting the affected limb raised when practical may reduce discomfort, but it does not replace treatment.

Get urgent help for facial or eye involvement, rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, faintness, confusion, breathing difficulty, or swelling of the lips or tongue. Fever or marked weakness during a skin infection also warrants prompt medical advice. If symptoms are not settling, are worsening, or return after treatment, contact the prescriber rather than changing the antibiotic yourself. People with Type 2 Diabetes or reduced immunity should seek advice early. A severe, untreated infection can contribute to Sepsis.

Ask why cephalexin is being recommended, how to space doses, which side effects require contact, and what signs show that the infection is responding. Check what to do if you miss a dose or cannot keep the medicine down.