Final Answer:
Cephalosporins of the first generation, such as cephalexin, are meant to cover both streptococcal and staphylococcal infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
First-generation cephalosporins, like cephalexin, are broad-spectrum antibiotics effective against Gram-positive bacteria, including streptococci and staphylococci.
They inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to the disruption of cell structure and ultimately bacterial death. Cephalexin is commonly used for skin and soft tissue infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-sensitive strains, and Streptococcus pyogenes.
Cephalexin is part of the cephalosporin class, which is a group of beta-lactam antibiotics. These drugs are widely used in clinical practice for their efficacy and safety profile. The first-generation cephalosporins are particularly effective against Gram-positive cocci, making them suitable for treating infections caused by streptococci and staphylococci. These bacteria can cause a range of infections, from skin and soft tissue infections to respiratory and urinary tract infections.
It's important for healthcare providers to consider the spectrum of activity, side effects, and resistance patterns when choosing an antibiotic for a specific infection. The use of cephalexin is generally well-tolerated, but as with any antibiotic, proper diagnosis and prescription practices are crucial to ensure optimal patient outcomes and minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance.