How Do You Spell CEFALEXIN?

Pronunciation: [sˈɛfe͡ɪlksˌɪn] (IPA)

Cefalexin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. The word is spelled with a "C" instead of a "K" because it is derived from the Cephalosporin class of antibiotics. The "ph" in the middle of the word represents the "f" sound, with the stress on the second syllable - "sɛfəˈlɛksɪn". The "x" in the word represents the "ks" sound, making the pronunciation of the word somewhat challenging. Proper spelling is important in the medical field to avoid medication errors and ensure patient safety.

CEFALEXIN Meaning and Definition

1. Cefalexin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic medication that belongs to the class of beta-lactam antibiotics known as cephalosporins. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections caused by susceptible microorganisms. Cefalexin is commonly used for the management of various types of infections including respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and bone infections, among others.

   Cefalexin works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. It does this by binding to and inactivating transpeptidases, enzymes involved in the formation of peptidoglycan, an essential component of bacterial cell walls. By disrupting cell wall synthesis, cefalexin weakens and kills the bacteria, thus efficiently combating the infection.

   The antibiotic comes in oral form and is usually taken two to four times a day, depending on the severity and type of infection. Cefalexin is available in various strengths and dosage forms, such as capsules or tablets. It is essential to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by a healthcare professional, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the complete eradication of the infection and prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.

   While generally well-tolerated, common side effects of cefalexin may include gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. In rare cases, individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing, which require immediate medical attention. Cefalexin is typically considered safe for most patients, but it should not be used without consultation with a healthcare professional to determine its suitability, dosage, and appropriate course of treatment for a specific infection.

Common Misspellings for CEFALEXIN

• Cefalexio

Etymology of CEFALEXIN

The word "Cefalexin" is derived from the combination of the prefix "Cef-" and the suffix "-alexin".

The prefix "Cef-" refers to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics. Cephalosporins are a group of beta-lactam antibiotics originally derived from the fungus Cephalosporium.

The suffix "-alexin" comes from the Greek word "alexis", which means "defending" or "protecting". It is commonly used in the names of antibiotics to indicate their action of inhibiting the growth or killing of bacteria.

Therefore, when combined, "Cefalexin" signifies a cephalosporin antibiotic that has a protective action against bacterial infections.