Cephalexin (Keflex) is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It’s often prescribed for urinary tract infections, ear infections, and some respiratory infections. And it’s FDA-approved for both adults and children. As with any medication, cephalexin has some side effects to be aware of while you’re taking it. Cephalexin side effects at a glance Cefalexin, also spelled cephalexin, is an antibiotic that can treat a number of bacterial infections. [4] It kills gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria by disrupting the growth of the bacterial cell wall. [4] Cephalexin is a type of cephalosporin antibiotic that treats bacterial infections. You can take this medication by mouth at the same time every day and follow the instructions on the label. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections like respiratory, skin, ear, urinary tract, and bone infections in adults and children. What Is Cephalexin and How Does It Work? Cephalexin is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. This medication is known as a cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Cephalexin will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Cephalexin is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria such as pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections; and infections of the bone, skin, ears, , genital, and urinary tract. Cephalexin is in a class of medications called cephalosporin antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria. Cephalexin is an antibiotic used to treat various infections, including strep throat and staph infections. The standard dose of cephalexin is highly dependent on patient characteristics and the type of infection being managed, but typical doses are 500 mg twice daily or 250 mg every six hours. Learn about the side effects of cephalexin, from common to rare, for consumers and healthcare professionals. Cephalexin is used to treat bacterial infections in many different parts of the body. It belongs to the class of medicines known as cephalosporin antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, this medicine will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections. Find patient medical information for Cephalexin (Keflet, Keflex, Keftab) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings.