Antibiotic Selection Guide

Select Your Infection Type

Recommended Antibiotics

When you see Keftab is the brand name for Cephalexin, a first‑generation cephalosporin antibiotic that stops bacterial cell‑wall formation, you might wonder if it’s the best fit for your infection.

How Keftab (Cephalexin) Works

Keftab belongs to the cephalosporin class, which means it binds to penicillin‑binding proteins inside the bacterial cell. By blocking these proteins, the drug weakens the peptidoglycan layer, causing the bacteria to burst. It’s especially good against Gram‑positive organisms like Staphylococcus aureus (non‑MRSA) and Streptococcus pyogenes.

When Doctors Prescribe Keftab

Typical indications include skin infections (cellulitis, impetigo), ear infections (otitis media), throat infections (streptococcal pharyngitis), and uncomplicated urinary tract infections. The usual adult dose is 250‑500mg every 6hours for 7‑10days, but dosage can be lowered for children based on weight.

Pros and Cons of Keftab

  • Pros
    • Well‑tolerated with a low rate of serious side effects.
    • Oral tablets and liquid formulation make it easy to take.
    • Broad coverage of common skin and soft‑tissue pathogens.
  • Cons
    • Not effective against resistant strains such as MRSA or many Gram‑negative organisms.
    • May cause mild gastrointestinal upset, rash, or rare C.difficile infection.
    • Requires multiple daily doses, which can affect adherence.
Art Nouveau illustration of various antibiotic bottles on a pharmacist’s desk with a balance of pros and cons.

Common Alternatives to Keftab

If Keftab isn’t suitable-because of allergy, resistance, or dosing convenience-doctors often turn to other antibiotics. Below is a quick snapshot of the most frequently considered options.

Comparison of Keftab (Cephalexin) with Common Alternatives
Antibiotic Typical Adult Dose Primary Spectrum Common Uses Pregnancy Safety Cost (AU$)
Cephalexin (Keftab) 250‑500mg q6h Gram‑positive, some Gram‑negative Skin, ear, throat, UTI Category B (generally safe) 10‑15
Amoxicillin 500mg q8h Gram‑positive, some Gram‑negative Respiratory, otitis media, H.pylori Category B 8‑12
Dicloxacillin 500mg q6h Penicillin‑resistant Staph Skin, bone infections Category B 12‑18
Clindamycin 300mg q6h Anaerobes, MRSA Severe skin, intra‑abdominal Category C 20‑30
Azithromycin 500mg day1, then 250mg daily x4 Atypical, some Gram‑positive Respiratory, sexually transmitted Category B 15‑22
Cefadroxil 500mg q12h Gram‑positive, limited Gram‑negative Skin, bone, UTI Category B 12‑20
Doxycycline 100mg bid Atypical, some Gram‑positive Travelers’ diarrhea, acne Category D (caution) 10‑15

How to Choose the Right Antibiotic

Think of antibiotic selection as a decision tree. First, identify the suspected pathogen-if you have a simple skin infection caused by S. aureus, a first‑generation cephalosporin like Keftab works well. If the lab reports MRSA, you’ll need something with MRSA activity, such as clindamycin or doxycycline.

Second, consider patient factors: allergies (penicillin‑allergic patients often react to cephalosporins), pregnancy status, renal function, and dosing convenience. For a busy parent who can’t remember a q6h schedule, azithromycin’s once‑daily regimen may improve adherence.

Third, weigh cost and availability. In many Australian pharmacies, Keftab and amoxicillin are the most affordable, while clindamycin can be pricier and sometimes requires a specialist prescription.

Art Nouveau decision tree with a doctor pointing to infection and patient factor icons for choosing antibiotics.

Safety, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions

Across the board, cephalosporins have a low propensity for severe adverse events. The most common complaints with Keftab are mild nausea, abdominal cramping, and a transient rash. If you notice severe diarrhea, especially watery stools with fever, contact your doctor-this could signal C.difficile colitis.

Drug interactions are relatively few, but keep an eye on antacids containing aluminum or magnesium; they can reduce cephalexin absorption, so separate doses by at least two hours.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss options with their clinician. While Keftab is categorized as Pregnancy Category B (no proven risk in humans), some alternatives like doxycycline (Category D) are generally avoided.

Key Takeaways

  • Keftab (Cephalexin) is a solid first‑line choice for uncomplicated skin, ear, throat, and urinary infections.
  • It’s inexpensive, widely available, and safe for most adults and children.
  • Limitations include lack of activity against MRSA and certain Gram‑negative bugs.
  • Alternative agents-amoxicillin, dicloxacillin, clindamycin, azithromycin, cefadroxil, doxycycline-provide coverage for specific pathogens, allergy profiles, or dosing needs.
  • Always match the antibiotic to the likely organism, patient characteristics, and practical considerations like cost and dosing frequency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Keftab for a urinary tract infection?

Yes, cephalexin is effective against many uncomplicated UTIs caused by Escherichia coli and other Gram‑negative rods, but a urine culture is recommended to confirm susceptibility.

What should I do if I develop a rash while taking Keftab?

Stop the medication and contact your healthcare provider immediately. A rash could signal an allergic reaction, especially if it spreads or is accompanied by swelling.

Is Keftab safe for children?

Absolutely. Pediatric dosing is weight‑based (typically 25‑50mg/kg per day divided every 6hours). Always follow the doctor’s prescription.

How does Keftab compare to amoxicillin for ear infections?

Both work well against the common bacteria that cause otitis media. Amoxicillin is often preferred as first‑line because of its twice‑daily dosing, but Keftab is a good alternative if a patient cannot tolerate penicillins.

Can I take antacids with Keftab?

Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium can lower the absorption of cephalexin. Space them at least two hours apart to avoid reduced effectiveness.