Keftab: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When you’re dealing with a stubborn skin infection, a persistent sinus infection, or a urinary tract bug that won’t quit, your doctor might reach for Keftab, a brand name for the antibiotic cephalexin, which belongs to the first-generation cephalosporin class of drugs. Also known as cephalexin, it’s one of the most commonly prescribed oral antibiotics for everyday bacterial infections. Unlike broad-spectrum antibiotics that hit everything, Keftab targets specific bacteria—especially those that cause skin boils, strep throat, ear infections, and some types of urinary tract infections. It doesn’t work against viruses, so if you’ve got the flu or a cold, it won’t help. But for bacterial trouble, it’s been a reliable go-to for decades.

Keftab works by stopping bacteria from building their cell walls. Without a strong wall, the bacteria burst and die. That’s why it’s effective against common culprits like Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. It’s usually taken every 6 to 12 hours, depending on the infection, and most people start feeling better in a few days. But here’s the catch: even if you feel fine, you need to finish the full course. Stopping early is one of the biggest reasons bacteria become resistant. And resistance isn’t just a problem for you—it affects everyone. If Keftab stops working for your infection, it might stop working for someone else too.

People often ask how Keftab stacks up against other antibiotics like amoxicillin or doxycycline. It’s not always better, but it’s often chosen because it’s well-tolerated, has fewer stomach side effects than some alternatives, and works well for skin and soft tissue infections. If you’re allergic to penicillin, you might still be able to take Keftab—but not always. About 1 in 10 people with penicillin allergies react to cephalosporins too, so your doctor will check your history carefully. Side effects? Mostly mild: nausea, diarrhea, or an upset stomach. Rarely, it can cause serious allergic reactions or a type of colitis called C. diff. If you get watery or bloody diarrhea after starting Keftab, call your doctor right away.

Keftab is often used in kids and older adults because it’s available as a liquid and doesn’t interact with many other meds. But kidney function matters—especially in seniors. If your kidneys aren’t clearing drugs the way they used to, your doctor may lower the dose. That’s why some of the posts below focus on how to adjust antibiotics safely in older patients or those with kidney issues. You’ll also find comparisons between Keftab and other antibiotics, real-life stories about treating stubborn infections, and tips on avoiding side effects.

What you’ll find here isn’t just a list of articles. It’s a practical guide to using Keftab the right way—when it helps, when it doesn’t, and how to avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re taking it yourself, helping a loved one, or just trying to understand why your doctor picked this drug over another, these posts give you the clear, no-fluff facts you need.