Keflex for boils. Cephalexin for Boils: Effectiveness, Usage, and Alternatives

26.10.202112.07.2023 by alexxlab

How effective is cephalexin for treating boils. What are the recommended dosages and potential side effects. Are there alternative antibiotics for boil treatment. How to prevent recurrent boils.

Содержание

Understanding Boils and Their Causes

Boils, also known as furuncles, are painful, pus-filled bumps that form under the skin due to bacterial infection of hair follicles. The primary culprit behind most boils is Staphylococcus aureus, commonly referred to as staph bacteria. These infections can be quite uncomfortable and may require medical intervention if they become severe or recurrent.

Why do boils form? Typically, they develop when bacteria enter the body through tiny nicks or cuts in the skin. Factors that increase the risk of boils include:

Poor hygiene
Weakened immune system
Chronic skin conditions
Close contact with someone who has a staph infection
Diabetes
Obesity

Cephalexin: A Powerful Antibiotic for Boil Treatment

Cephalexin, often sold under the brand name Keflex, is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic commonly prescribed for skin and soft tissue infections, including boils. This medication works by interfering with the bacterial cell wall synthesis, ultimately leading to the death of the bacteria.

How effective is cephalexin for treating boils? According to user reviews, cephalexin has an average rating of 6.3 out of 10 for the treatment of skin or soft tissue infections, with 52% of reviewers reporting a positive experience. This suggests that while cephalexin can be effective for many patients, individual responses may vary.

Recommended Dosage and Administration

The appropriate dosage of cephalexin for boils depends on several factors, including the severity of the infection, the patient’s age, and overall health. Typically, adults may be prescribed:

250-500 mg every 6 hours, or
500-1000 mg every 12 hours

Treatment duration usually ranges from 7 to 14 days, but it’s crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While cephalexin is generally well-tolerated, like all medications, it can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:

Diarrhea
Nausea
Stomach pain
Headache
Dizziness

Can people allergic to amoxicillin take cephalexin? While cephalexin and amoxicillin belong to different antibiotic classes, there is a small risk of cross-reactivity. Patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to penicillins should consult their healthcare provider before taking cephalexin.

Alternative Antibiotics for Boil Treatment

While cephalexin is a common choice for treating boils, other antibiotics may be prescribed based on factors such as the severity of the infection, the patient’s medical history, and local antibiotic resistance patterns. Some alternatives include:

Dicloxacillin
Clindamycin
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX)
Doxycycline
Vancomycin (for severe infections or MRSA)

Is there a best antibiotic for treating boils? The most effective antibiotic can vary depending on the specific bacteria causing the infection and its antibiotic sensitivity. In some cases, a healthcare provider may need to perform a culture to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Over-the-Counter Options for Boil Management

While antibiotics are often necessary for treating boils, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help manage symptoms and promote healing. However, it’s important to note that OTC options primarily provide pain relief rather than treating the underlying infection.

Some OTC options for boil management include:

Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
Warm compresses
Antiseptic washes
Topical antibacterial ointments

Can OTC treatments cure boils without antibiotics? While some small boils may resolve on their own with proper home care, larger or recurrent boils often require prescription antibiotics for effective treatment.

Preventing Recurrent Boils

Preventing boils involves maintaining good hygiene and addressing any underlying health conditions that may increase susceptibility to skin infections. Some preventive measures include:

Washing hands frequently with soap and water
Keeping cuts and scrapes clean and covered
Avoiding sharing personal items like towels or razors
Managing chronic health conditions like diabetes
Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle to support immune function

How can you reduce the risk of developing boils? Practicing good hygiene, especially in areas prone to friction or sweating, can significantly decrease the likelihood of boil formation.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many boils can be managed at home, certain situations warrant medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if:

The boil is large, extremely painful, or doesn’t improve with home treatment
You have multiple boils or recurrent infections
The boil is on your face or spine
You develop a fever or other systemic symptoms
You have a weakened immune system or chronic health condition

Should all boils be treated with antibiotics? Not necessarily. Small, uncomplicated boils may resolve with proper home care and drainage. However, larger or recurrent boils often require antibiotic treatment to prevent complications and spread of infection.

Cephalexin and Special Populations

Certain groups may require special consideration when using cephalexin for boil treatment:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Cephalexin is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before use. They can weigh the potential benefits against any risks.

Pediatric Use

Cephalexin can be used in children, but dosages are typically adjusted based on the child’s weight. Liquid formulations are available for easier administration to younger patients.

Elderly Patients

Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects and may require dose adjustments, particularly if they have reduced kidney function.

Is cephalexin safe for all age groups? While cephalexin can be used in various age groups, dosage adjustments and close monitoring may be necessary for certain populations to ensure safety and efficacy.

In conclusion, cephalexin is a widely used and often effective antibiotic for treating boils caused by susceptible bacteria. However, its use should be guided by healthcare professionals who can consider individual factors and potential alternatives. Combining antibiotic treatment with proper wound care and preventive measures can help manage boils effectively and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Cephalexin User Reviews for Skin or Soft Tissue Infection

Save

Brand names:
Keflex

Cephalexin
has an average rating of 6.3 out of 10 from a total of 133 reviews
for the
treatment of Skin or Soft Tissue Infection.
52% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 32% reported a negative experience.

Filter by condition
All conditionsAcne (9)Bacterial Endocarditis Prevention (6)Bacterial Infection (138)Bladder Infection (110)Bone infection (5)Kidney Infections (40)Otitis Media (4)Pharyngitis (4)Prostatitis (2)Skin or Soft Tissue Infection (147)Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (23)

Cephalexin rating summary

6.3/10 average rating

133 ratings from 147 user reviews.

Compare all 136 medications used in the treatment of Skin or Soft Tissue Infection.

10		29%
9		13%
8		10%
7		5%
6		5%
5		5%
4		2%
3		6%
2		9%
1		17%

Reviews for Cephalexin

Frequently asked questions

What are the best antibiotics for a tooth infection?
What is the best antibiotic to treat strep throat?
Can Cephalexin treat an abscess in the mouth or gum infection?
If people are allergic to amoxicillin can they take cephalexin?

Are you taking this medicine?

Add your review
Learn more about Cephalexin

More FAQ

Can you take cephalexin for a spider bite?
Can you take antibiotics while pregnant?
Cephalexin – is this a drug that can be abused by teens?

Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.

Learn more about Skin or Soft Tissue Infection

Antibiotics Guide
Common Side Effects from Antibiotics, and Allergies and Reactions

More about cephalexin

Check interactions
Compare alternatives
Pricing & coupons
Reviews (491)
Drug images
Side effects
Dosage information
Patient tips
During pregnancy
Support group
Drug class: first generation cephalosporins
Breastfeeding
En español

Patient resources

Drug Information
Cephalexin Capsules and Tablets
Cephalexin Suspension

Other brands

Keflex, Biocef

Professional resources

Prescribing Information

Related treatment guides

Bacterial Infection
Bladder Infection
Acne
Bacterial Endocarditis Prevention

Antibiotics for Boils: Prescribed & Over-the-Counter

Health Conditions
- Featured
  - Breast Cancer
  - IBD
  - Migraine
  - Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
  - Rheumatoid Arthritis
  - Type 2 Diabetes
- Articles
  - Acid Reflux
  - ADHD
  - Allergies
  - Alzheimer’s & Dementia
  - Bipolar Disorder
  - Cancer
  - Crohn’s Disease
  - Chronic Pain
  - Cold & Flu
  - COPD
  - Depression
  - Fibromyalgia
  - Heart Disease
  - High Cholesterol
  - HIV
  - Hypertension
  - IPF
  - Osteoarthritis
  - Psoriasis
  - Skin Disorders and Care
  - STDs
Discover
- Wellness Topics
  - Nutrition
  - Fitness
  - Skin Care
  - Sexual Health
  - Women’s Health
  - Mental Well-Being
  - Sleep
- Product Reviews
  - Vitamins & Supplements
  - Sleep
  - Mental Health
  - Nutrition
  - At-Home Testing
  - CBD
  - Men’s Health
- Original Series
  - Fresh Food Fast
  - Diagnosis Diaries
  - You’re Not Alone
  - Present Tense
- Video Series
  - Youth in Focus
  - Healthy Harvest
  - No More Silence
  - Future of Health
Plan
- Health Challenges
  - Mindful Eating
  - Sugar Savvy
  - Move Your Body
  - Gut Health
  - Mood Foods
  - Align Your Spine
- Find Care
  - Primary Care
  - Mental Health
  - OB-GYN
  - Dermatologists
  - Neurologists
  - Cardiologists
  - Orthopedists
- Lifestyle Quizzes
  - Weight Management
  - Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
  - Are You a Workaholic?
  - How Well Do You Sleep?
- Tools & Resources
  - Health News
  - Find a Diet
  - Find Healthy Snacks
  - Drugs A-Z
  - Health A-Z
Connect
- - Breast Cancer
  - Inflammatory Bowel Disease
  - Psoriatic Arthritis
  - Migraine
  - Multiple Sclerosis
  - Psoriasis

Medically reviewed by Lindsay Slowiczek, PharmD — By Scott Frothingham — Updated on May 8, 2023

Most boils are caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. Doctors typically prescribe antibiotics to treat this kind of infection. Over-the-counter boil medications provide pain relief, not treatment.

When bacteria infect and inflame a hair follicle, a painful pus-filled bump can form under your skin. This infected bump is a boil, also known as a furuncle, and it will grow larger and more painful until it ruptures and drains.

Most boils can be treated with a minor surgical procedure that includes opening and draining it. Sometimes you may need antibiotics to deal with the underlying infection.

The majority of boils are caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, also known as staph. To fight this infection, your doctor might prescribe oral, topical, or intravenous antibiotics, such as:

amikacin
amoxicillin (Amoxil, Moxatag)
ampicillin
cefazolin (Ancef, Kefzol)
cefotaxime
ceftriaxone
cephalexin (Keflex)
clindamycin (Cleocin, Benzaclin, Veltin)
doxycycline (Doryx, Oracea, Vibramycin)
erythromycin (Erygel, Eryped)
gentamicin (Gentak)
levofloxacin (Levaquin)
mupirocin (Centany)
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (Bactrim, Septra)
tetracycline

The antibiotic your doctor will prescribe is based on your specific situation.

Not every antibiotic is going to work for you because some varieties — there are over 30 types — of staph have become resistant to certain antibiotics.

Before prescribing antibiotics, your doctor might suggest sending a sample of pus from the boil to a lab to determine the antibiotic that would be most effective.

Most over-the-counter (OTC) boil medications are focused on pain relief. There are no OTC antibiotics appropriate for treating a boil.

According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, using OTC antibiotic ointment — such as Neosporin, bacitracin, or Polysporin — on your boil is ineffective because the medication won’t penetrate the infected skin.

If the antibiotic is doing its job, you’ll start to feel better. Once you feel better, you might consider stopping the medication. You shouldn’t stop or you might get sick again.

Whenever you’re prescribed an oral antibiotic, take it as directed and finish all of the medication. If you stop taking it too soon, the antibiotic might not have killed all the bacteria.

If that happens, not only could you get sick again, but the remaining bacteria might become resistant to that antibiotic. Also, have your doctor review signs and symptoms that your infection is getting worse.

A boil can be painful and unsightly. It might require antibiotics as well as minor surgery to open and drain. If you have a boil or group of boils, consult your doctor or dermatologist to determine the steps that should be taken to properly heal the area.

One universal rule you’ll hear from all medical professionals is to not pick at, squeeze, or use a sharp object to release the fluid and pus in a boil. Among other complications, this can spread the infection.

Last medically reviewed on September 13, 2018

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Boils. (n.d.).
aocd.org/page/Boils
Boils & carbuncles. (2016).
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15153-boils–carbuncles
Boils and carbuncles: How are boils treated? (2018).
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0099526/
Harvard Medical School. (2015). Boils and carbuncles.
health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/boils-and-carbuncles-
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2017). Staph infections.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/staph-infections/symptoms-causes/syc-20356221
Questions over advice to finish courses of antibiotics. (2017).
nhs.uk/news/medication/questions-over-advice-to-finish-courses-of-antibiotics/
Singer AJ, et al. (2014). Systemic antibiotics after incision and drainage of simple abscesses: a meta-analysis. DOI:
10.1136/emermed-2013-202571
Staphylococcal infections. (2018).
medlineplus. gov/staphylococcalinfections.html

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

May 8, 2023

Written By

Scott Frothingham

Edited By

Willow Banks

Sep 13, 2018

Medically Reviewed By

Lindsay Slowiczek, PharmD

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Lindsay Slowiczek, PharmD — By Scott Frothingham — Updated on May 8, 2023

Prescription and OTC – Drink-Drink

Jul 12, 2023

Try it!

07/12/2022 DrinkDrinkAdmin

Contents

Antibiotics for boils
Which antibiotic is best for boils?
How about over-the-counter boil remedies?
Do I have to take all antibiotics?
Conclusion

What is a boil?

When bacteria infect and inflame the hair follicle, a painful, pus-filled bump can form under the skin. This infected bump is a furuncle, also known as a furuncle, and it will enlarge and become more painful until it bursts and dwindles.

Most boils can be treated with a minor surgical procedure that involves opening and draining. Sometimes you may need antibiotics to fight the underlying infection.

Antibiotics for boils

Most boils are caused by bacteria, also known as staphylococci. To fight this infection, your doctor may prescribe oral, topical, or intravenous antibiotics, such as:

amikacin
amoxicillin (Amoxil, Moxatag)
ampicillin
cefazolin (Ancef, Kefzol)
cefotaxime
ceftriaxone
cephalexin (Keflex)
clindamycin (Cleocin) , Benzacline, Veltin)
doxycycline (Dorix, Oracea, Vibramycin)
erythromycin (Erygel, Eryped )
gentamicin (Gentak)
levofloxacin (Levaquin)
mupirocin (Centany)
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (Bactrim, Septra)
tetracycline

Which antibiotic is better for boils?

The antibiotic your doctor prescribes depends on your specific situation.

Not every antibiotic is right for you, because some strains of staph—there are more than 30 species—have become resistant to certain antibiotics.

Before prescribing antibiotics, your doctor may suggest sending a sample of pus from the boil to a laboratory to determine the most effective antibiotic.

How about over-the-counter boil remedies?

Most over-the-counter (OTC) boil medications are designed to relieve pain. There are no over-the-counter antibiotics suitable for the treatment of a boil.

According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, over-the-counter antibiotic ointments such as neosporin, bacitracin, or polysporin are not effective for boils because the drug does not penetrate infected skin.

Do I have to take all antibiotics?

If the antibiotic does its job, you will feel better. Once you feel better, you may want to consider stopping your medication. You must not stop, otherwise you may get sick again.

Whenever you are prescribed an oral antibiotic, take it as directed and finish all of your medicine. If you stop taking it too soon, the antibiotic may not kill all bacteria.

If this happens, not only can you get sick again, but the remaining bacteria can become resistant to this antibiotic. Also, ask your doctor to review signs and symptoms that indicate a worsening infection.

Conclusion

A boil can be painful and unsightly. Opening and drainage may require antibiotics, as well as minor surgery. If you have a boil or group of boils, consult your doctor or dermatologist to determine the steps you need to take to heal the area properly.

One universal rule that you will hear from all medical professionals is not to pick, squeeze, or use a sharp object to release fluid and pus from a boil. Among other complications, this can lead to the spread of infection.

Health

What to drink to prevent boils?

Turmeric’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help heal boils and get rid of them quickly. You can take Turmeric , use it topically to treat boils or both. To swallow it, boil a teaspoon of turmeric powder in water or milk, then let cool. Drink the mixture three times a day.

Therefore, how can I stop getting boils? However, you can prevent boils if:

Avoid close contact with someone who has a staph infection, boil or carbuncle.
Wash your hands frequently with antibacterial soaps and gels, which can help prevent the spread of bacteria.
Bathe regularly with soap.
Do not share or reuse washcloths, towels or sheets.

Do boils really arise from being dirty?

Boils are caused by bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus (staph infection). In many people, these bacteria are found on the skin or, for example, in the mucous membrane of the nostrils, and they do not cause any problems.

What is the main cause of boils? Most boils are caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria commonly found on the skin and inside the nose. When pus accumulates under the skin, a bump forms. Boils sometimes develop in places where the skin has been broken as a result of a minor injury or insect bite, making it easier for bacteria to enter.

Then why do I keep getting boils all over my body?

Recurring boils may indicate an infection with MRSA or an increase in other types of staphylococcal bacteria in the body. If you have multiple boils in one place, you may be developing a carbuncle. See your doctor about carbuncle. This may be a sign of a larger infection in the body.

Contents

Why do I often get boils?

Recurring boils may indicate an MRSA infection or an increase in other types of staph bacteria in the body. If you have multiple boils in one place, you may be developing a carbuncle. See your doctor about carbuncle. This may be a sign of a larger infection in the body.

Which ointment is good for boils?

To fight this infection, your doctor may prescribe oral, topical, or intravenous antibiotics, such as:

amikacin.
amoxicillin (Amoxil, Moxatag)
ampicillin.
cefazolin (Anzef, Kefzol)
cefotaxime.
ceftriaxone.
cephalexin (Keflex)
clindamycin (Cleocin, Benzacline, Veltin)

Can boils cause nausea?

If you have a boil or carbuncle, you may also have a fever and feel unwell.

How to ripen a boil faster?

Place a warm, damp cloth over the boil for about 20 minutes three or four times a day. This will help bring the boil to the head. A boil may open on its own after about 1 week of treatment.

What is the solid inside a boil?

A boil is a common, painful infection of the hair follicle and surrounding skin. It starts as a red bump, then fills with pus as white blood cells rush in to fight the infection. Good home care will often help get rid of a single boil, also known as a skin abscess.

How long do boils last?

Boils may take 1 to 3 weeks to heal. In most cases, a boil will not heal until it opens and drains. This may take up to a week. A carbuncle often requires medical attention.

What disease causes recurring boils?

Hidradenitis suppurativa, also known as acne inverse, is a chronic skin disease characterized by recurring boil-like skin lesions (nodules) under the skin. The nodules become inflamed and painful. They tend to rupture (rupture), causing abscesses that ooze fluid and pus.

Can a boil cause nausea?

If you have a boil or carbuncle, you may also have a fever and feel unwell.

How to stop the spread of a boil?

How to prevent the spread of boils?

Wash your hands frequently.
Do not touch the infected area more than necessary.
Do not share towels, razors or washcloths.
Cover the wound with a clean dressing.
Do not attempt to burst a boil or cut it open (cut with a sharp instrument) at home.

Should a boil be covered?

Use a cover or bandage

To help the boil heal faster, try to keep it covered. After you wash the boil and the area around it, apply a clean bandage to keep it covered and protected. You can use a bandage or gauze.

Which antibiotic kills boils?

Some of the antibiotics doctors most commonly use to treat boils include:

ceftaroline.
daptomycin.
oxacillin.
vancomycin.
telavancin.
tigecycline.

Why do I keep getting boils on my buttocks?

Causes and risk factors

Bacterial infections are the most common cause of boils on the buttocks. Staphylococcus aureus is usually the bacterium that causes boils. This bacterium often lives on the skin or in the nose. Skin folds are a frequent site of abscesses.

How to get rid of boils overnight?

You can make a warm compress by soaking a washcloth in warm water and squeezing out excess moisture. When the boil starts to drain, wash it with antibacterial soap until all the pus is gone and rub it with rubbing alcohol. Apply a healing ointment (topical antibiotic) and bandage.

Can boils cause death?

If boils collect together or form lesions deep under the skin (cellulitis), they can burst and spread into the bloodstream. If left untreated, bacterial infections of the bloodstream can cause organ failure, sepsis, coma, toxic shock syndrome, and ultimately death.

Which antibiotic is best for boils?

Most boils are caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, also known as staphylococcus aureus.