From the Guidelines
Keflex (cephalexin) can be used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) in males, typically at a dose of 500 mg orally every 6-8 hours for 7-14 days, as recommended by the most recent guidelines 1.
Treatment Duration and Dose
For uncomplicated UTIs, a 7-day course is often sufficient, while complicated infections may require the full 14 days. Males with UTIs should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider as UTIs in men are less common and often indicate an underlying issue such as prostate enlargement, kidney stones, or structural abnormalities.
Mechanism of Action and Efficacy
Keflex works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis and is effective against many common UTI-causing bacteria, particularly gram-positive organisms. However, it may not cover all potential pathogens, especially Pseudomonas or certain resistant strains.
Patient Management
Patients should complete the entire prescribed course even if symptoms improve, drink plenty of water, and follow up if symptoms persist or worsen. Side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, and allergic reactions. Those with penicillin allergies should use caution as cross-reactivity can occur.
Considerations for Complicated UTIs
The European Association of Urology guidelines emphasize the importance of a thorough medical history and physical examination for patients with urological infections, and stress the role of antimicrobial stewardship to combat the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance 1.
Key Recommendations
Key recommendations emphasize the importance of antimicrobial stewardship, providing recommendations for antibiotic selection, dosing, and duration on the basis of the latest evidence 1.
- A thorough medical history and physical examination are crucial for patients with urological infections.
- Antimicrobial stewardship is essential to combat the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance.
- Recommendations for antibiotic selection, dosing, and duration should be based on the latest evidence.
From the FDA Drug Label
Genitourinary tract infections, including acute prostatitis, caused by Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Klebsiella pneumoniae Cephalexin is indicated for the treatment of genitourinary tract infections, including acute prostatitis in males, caused by susceptible strains of Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Klebsiella pneumoniae 2.
- The drug label supports the use of cephalexin for UTI in males, but culture and susceptibility tests should be initiated prior to and during therapy.
- Renal function studies should be performed when indicated.
- Cephalexin should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria.
From the Research
Keflex for UTI in Males
- There are no direct studies provided that specifically examine the use of Keflex (cephalexin) for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in males.
- However, studies have investigated the use of cephalexin for UTIs in general, which may provide some relevant information 3, 4, 5.
- Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin that has been shown to be effective in treating UTIs, particularly those caused by non-extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing (ESBL) Enterobacteriaceae 4.
- The optimal dosing of cephalexin for UTIs has been studied, with one study finding that twice-daily dosing is as effective as four-times-daily dosing for uncomplicated UTIs in females 3.
- Other studies have discussed the treatment options for UTIs, including the use of cephalexin as a second-line option for uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections (uLUTIs) 5.
- The emergence of antibiotic resistance has led to a re-evaluation of treatment options for UTIs, with cephalexin being considered as a potential alternative to fluoroquinolones 4, 5.
- It is essential to note that the treatment of UTIs should be guided by local susceptibility patterns and the specific characteristics of the infection, rather than relying solely on general recommendations 5, 6, 7.