Keftab (Cephalexin) – Patient-Friendly Medicine Information (Australia)

Keftab (cephalexin) is an antibiotic medicine used to treat certain bacterial infections. This page explains how cephalexin works, when it’s typically used, how it should be taken, and important safety information. Always follow the directions given by your prescriber and the instructions on your medicine label.

Quick overview

• Brand: Keftab
• Active ingredient: Cephalexin
• Medicine type: Antibiotic (cephalosporin)
• Common uses: Skin infections, respiratory tract infections, and other bacterial infections depending on the cause
• Common form: Oral tablets/capsules or similar oral presentations (strengths vary)
• How it works: Stops bacteria from building and repairing their cell walls

What is Keftab (cephalexin)?

Keftab contains cephalexin, an antibiotic belonging to the cephalosporin group. Cephalexin is designed to treat infections caused by certain susceptible bacteria.

It is important to know that antibiotics like cephalexin are effective for bacterial infections only. They do not treat viral illnesses such as the common cold, most sore throats, or influenza.

How Keftab works (mechanism of action)

Cephalexin is a beta-lactam antibiotic. Bacteria need to build a protective structure called the cell wall in order to survive and multiply. Cephalexin interferes with the final steps of cell wall formation by binding to specific bacterial proteins (often described as penicillin-binding proteins).

This leads to weaker bacterial cell walls, causing the bacteria to die or stop growing. The result is that symptoms improve as the bacterial load decreases and the infection resolves.

Pharmacokinetics (how the body handles cephalexin)

While individual responses vary, the general pharmacokinetic behaviour of cephalexin includes the following:

• Absorption: Cephalexin is generally absorbed after oral dosing.
• Distribution: It distributes into body tissues and fluids, including sites relevant to common bacterial infections.
• Metabolism: Cephalexin is not significantly metabolised; most of the active drug remains available.
• Elimination: The medicine is primarily cleared by the kidneys via urine.
• Duration of effect: Dosing intervals are selected to keep drug levels high enough for antibacterial activity.

If you have kidney impairment, dosing may need adjustment to reduce the risk of side effects due to slower clearance.

Typical indications and uses

Keftab (cephalexin) may be used for infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Depending on local clinical practice, laboratory results, and your symptoms, cephalexin is commonly considered for:

• Skin and soft tissue infections (for example, cellulitis, infected wounds, or other bacterial skin infections)
• Respiratory tract infections where bacterial causes are suspected or confirmed (for example, certain throat/tonsil or bronchial infections—depending on severity and local guidance)
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by susceptible organisms
• Bone/joint infections in selected situations (specialist guidance may be required)
• Other bacterial infections where cephalexin is considered appropriate based on bacterial sensitivity

Choosing an antibiotic depends on the likely bacteria, infection site, severity, local resistance patterns, and whether a culture/sensitivity test is available.

When to take Keftab (timing and dosing principles)

Follow your prescribed schedule

The most important rule is to take Keftab exactly as directed on your label. Antibiotics work best when they are taken consistently at appropriate intervals.

General timing tips

• Set reminders if you’re taking multiple doses per day.
• Try to space doses evenly (for example, if three times daily, aim for roughly every 8 hours).
• Complete the course even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to stop.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s close to the next dose. Do not double up.

Dosing information (adults and children)

Dosing of cephalexin varies depending on the type of infection, severity, kidney function, age, and body weight (especially in children). Because different products and strengths exist, dosing should be confirmed by the specific instructions provided for your medicine.

Adults

Typical adult dosing regimens often involve multiple daily doses with a defined course length. The exact dose and schedule must be based on the infection being treated and your clinical circumstances.

Children

In children, cephalexin dosing is commonly calculated according to body weight. The prescriber will consider age, weight, and the infection site. Parents and carers should use the dosing instructions on the label and avoid guessing doses.

Kidney impairment

Because cephalexin is cleared by the kidneys, people with impaired kidney function may need dose adjustments. If you have known kidney disease, ensure your clinician is aware.

How to take Keftab: food interactions and practical use tips

Food and cephalexin

Cephalexin can generally be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset in some people.

• With food: May improve tolerance if you experience nausea.
• Without food: If you tolerate it well, this may be acceptable.
• Maintain a consistent approach from day to day to avoid stomach discomfort.

Practical use tips

• Swallow whole if using tablets/capsules. Do not crush unless your product instructions allow it.
• Oral hygiene: Stay hydrated and maintain normal fluid intake.
• Track your course: Mark days on a calendar to help ensure you finish the recommended duration.
• Seek advice if symptoms worsen: Fever and worsening pain may indicate resistance, the wrong diagnosis, or complications.

Alcohol and medicine interactions

Alcohol

There is no universal “hard ban” on alcohol with cephalexin for all patients. However, alcohol may worsen side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and diarrhoea, and it can affect your recovery if you are unwell.

For best tolerance, consider limiting or avoiding alcohol while you are taking Keftab, especially if you are experiencing stomach symptoms or feel weak.

Interactions with other medicines

Before taking Keftab, tell your clinician and pharmacist about all medicines you use, including over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some medicines may interact or require caution:

• Probenecid: May reduce kidney clearance of some antibiotics and increase antibiotic levels.
• Oral anticoagulants (blood thinners): Antibiotics can affect gut bacteria and may influence blood thinning in some people. Close monitoring may be needed depending on the specific blood thinner.
• Other antibiotics: Combining antibiotics depends on the situation and should be clinician-directed.
• Medicines affecting kidney function: Any medicine that impacts kidneys may affect cephalexin clearance.

If you take long-term medicines, it’s wise to check interaction information with your pharmacist.

Safety profile and side effects

Common side effects

Many people tolerate cephalexin well, but side effects can occur. Common or expected side effects include:

• Diarrhoea or loose stools
• Nausea or mild stomach upset
• Vomiting (less common)
• Headache
• Vaginal itching or discharge may occur in some individuals due to changes in normal flora
• Rash (sometimes mild)

Seek urgent medical help

Stop taking Keftab and seek urgent medical help if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction such as:

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Severe widespread rash, blistering, or peeling skin
• Fainting or feeling severely unwell

Serious bowel condition (seek medical advice)

Antibiotics can sometimes cause a type of bowel inflammation. Get medical advice promptly if you develop:

• Severe diarrhoea
• Blood in stool
• Severe abdominal pain
• Fever alongside diarrhoea

Who should take extra caution?

• History of allergy to cephalosporins or other beta-lactam antibiotics
• History of penicillin allergy: Discuss risk with your pharmacist/doctor
• Kidney disease: Dose adjustment may be required
• Previous antibiotic-associated diarrhoea
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Cephalexin may be used when appropriate, but decisions should be individualised

When will you feel better?

Many bacterial infections start to improve within 48–72 hours after starting appropriate antibiotics. Improvement may include reduced fever, less pain, and better energy.

Contact a clinician if:

• Your symptoms do not improve within 2–3 days
• Your infection worsens
• You develop new symptoms such as spreading redness, increasing swelling, or worsening breathing
• You suspect the infection may be resistant or incorrect

Alternative options (what else may be used)

The best alternative depends on the suspected bacteria, infection location, severity, and allergy history. For some infections, clinicians may choose other antibiotics such as:

• Other cephalosporins or beta-lactams (depending on sensitivity)
• Penicillin-class antibiotics when appropriate
• Macrolides in certain respiratory or skin infections (for selected cases)
• Treatment based on culture results if a sample has been taken

Non-antibiotic treatments (such as pain relief, wound care, hydration, and rest) may also be used alongside antibiotics depending on symptoms.

Do not switch antibiotics on your own—if you have concerns about effectiveness or side effects, speak with a healthcare professional.

Market and legal context in Australia

In Australia, antibiotic use is guided by national antimicrobial stewardship principles and clinical guidelines. Cephalexin is an established antibiotic medicine and forms part of routine prescribing for susceptible bacterial infections.

As with all medicines, availability, prescribing requirements, and supply processes follow Australian regulations and pharmacy practice. Online pharmacy services operate in line with applicable state and Commonwealth requirements, including medicine identification and safe supply processes.

Antibiotic stewardship matters: unnecessary or incorrect antibiotic use can contribute to antibiotic resistance and can increase the chance of side effects. Clinicians aim to prescribe the most appropriate antibiotic, dose, and duration for each patient.

Recent guidance and best-practice considerations

Recent antimicrobial stewardship guidance worldwide—and in Australia—emphasises:

• Using antibiotics only when they are likely to help (i.e., bacterial infection rather than viral illness)
• Choosing narrow-spectrum agents when appropriate to reduce resistance pressure
• Reviewing response to treatment after starting therapy
• Completing the recommended course unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional
• Confirming with culture/sensitivity for recurrent or complicated infections where possible

If you’re unsure whether your illness is bacterial, it can be helpful to seek medical advice, especially if symptoms are severe, persistent, or unusual.

Delivery and availability (Australia)

Keftab (cephalexin) is a commonly stocked antibiotic medicine through Australian pharmacies. Availability may vary by strength, formulation, and local supply.

Online pharmacies typically provide:

• Fast ordering with product details and strength listed clearly
• Secure delivery to eligible addresses
• Support from qualified pharmacy staff if you have questions about use and side effects

Delivery times can vary depending on your location and stock levels. Check the product page at the time of ordering for estimated dispatch and shipping options.

Dos and don’ts while taking Keftab

Do

• Take Keftab at the times shown on your label.
• Drink adequate fluids and eat normally if tolerated.
• Report allergies or previous antibiotic reactions to your pharmacist.
• Seek advice if symptoms are not improving after 2–3 days.
• Finish the full course unless advised to stop early.

Don’t

• Don’t share your antibiotic with others.
• Don’t use leftover antibiotics from a previous illness.
• Don’t stop early just because you feel better (unless told to).
• Don’t take extra doses to “make up” for a missed dose.

FAQ – Keftab (Cephalexin)

1) What infections does Keftab treat?

Keftab (cephalexin) treats certain bacterial infections such as some skin and soft tissue infections, respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and others where the bacteria are susceptible. The exact choice of antibiotic depends on the infection and likely bacteria.

2) How soon will I feel better?

Many people notice improvement within 48–72 hours. If you don’t improve, or symptoms worsen, contact your clinician or pharmacist promptly.

3) Can I take Keftab with food?

Yes. Cephalexin can generally be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce nausea for some people.

4) What if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember if it’s not close to the next dose. If it is near the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double dose.

5) Should I avoid alcohol while taking Keftab?

Avoiding or limiting alcohol may improve comfort because alcohol can worsen nausea and diarrhoea. If you choose to drink, do so cautiously and consider your symptoms and tolerance.

6) Are there medicine interactions?

Cephalexin can interact with some medicines, including probenecid and certain blood thinners. Tell your pharmacist about all medicines you take so they can check for interactions.

7) What side effects are common?

Common side effects include diarrhoea, nausea, stomach upset, headache, and sometimes mild rash. Serious allergic reactions or severe diarrhoea require urgent medical advice.

8) Is Keftab safe for children?

Cephalexin is used in children when appropriate, with dosing typically calculated by weight. Use only the dose instructions provided for your child’s age and weight and speak to a pharmacist if you’re unsure.

9) Can I use Keftab during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Cephalexin may be used when clinically needed. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should be individualised—speak with a healthcare professional to weigh benefits and risks.

10) What should I do if I develop a rash?

Mild rashes can occur. However, if the rash is severe, associated with swelling, breathing difficulty, blistering, or peeling skin, seek urgent medical help.

Summary

Keftab (cephalexin) is an oral antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections. It works by stopping bacteria from building their cell walls. Cephalexin is absorbed after dosing and mainly cleared through the kidneys. For best results, take it at regular intervals, with or without food, and complete the full course as directed. If you experience severe side effects—especially signs of allergy or severe diarrhoea—seek urgent medical advice.

If you have any questions about suitability, dosing, or side effects, a pharmacist can provide practical, Australia-focused guidance.