Just saw a patient (11yo) prescribed cephalexin for 10 days for cellulitis of toe 5/31/14. Sensitivities included cefazolin but not cephalexin. Can these drugs be used interchangeably? Child presents today with scattered maculopapular rash and red skin with hot flashes , malaise since yesterday. Am wondering if this is a drug vs staph infection rash. She looks ill. Did not do vitals or examine as knew needed more evaluation than available in retail clinic.
Hi.your pediatrician was right in starting Cephalexin for cellulitis as it is a good antibiotic of skin and soft tissue infection like cellulitis and has narrower coverage too. But as you say the kid is still ill - I would look for 2 possibilities - 1. Is the duration of Cephalexin already more than 3 days - without good response?2. Are we dealing with a more virulent organism - if so I would prefer Clindamycin? Regards -