Cephalexin--a new oral antibiotic

The pharmacology, antimicrobial activity and clinical uses of cephalexin, a semi-synthetic derivative of cephalosporin C, are described. Cephalexin is active, when taken by mouth, against Gram-positive cocci, including penicillinase-producing staphylococci, and against many Gram-negative organisms including Gram-negative rods. There is a low incidence of side effects.