cephalexin

noun

ceph·​a·​lex·​in ˌse-fə-ˈlek-sən 

: a semisynthetic cephalosporin C₁₆H₁₇N₃O₄S with a spectrum of antibiotic activity similar to the penicillins

Examples of cephalexin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other choices, like nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, or cephalexin, have more effectiveness with less risk of toxicity. —Dr. Keith Roach, oregonlive, 13 Mar. 2023

The most common organism responsible for perichondritis is a bug called Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a virulent pathogen with the ability to resist many antibiotics, including the cephalexin prescribed by Jessica’s pediatrician. —Rick Pescatore, Philly.com, 20 Oct. 2017

Jessica’s pediatrician diagnosed a mild case of a bacterial skin infection known as cellulitis, and gave her a prescription for an antibiotic, cephalexin, along with the standard precautions. —Rick Pescatore, Philly.com, 20 Oct. 2017

Word History

Etymology

cephalosporin + -ex- (of unknown origin) + -in entry 1

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

cephalexin

noun

ceph·​a·​lex·​in ˌsef-ə-ˈlek-sən 

: a semisynthetic cephalosporin C₁₆H₁₇N₃O₄S with a spectrum of antibiotic activity similar to the penicillins that is often administered in the form of its hydrochloride C₁₆H₁₇N₃O₄S·HCl or monohydrate C₁₆H₁₇N₃O₄S·H₂O

Note: Cephalexin is marketed under the trademark Keflex.