What is the primary antibiotic choice for treating cellulitis?

The primary antibiotic choice for treating cellulitis is Keflex, which is a first-generation cephalosporin (cephalexin). This class of antibiotics is effective against common causative organisms of cellulitis, particularly Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus.

Keflex is favored because it demonstrates good oral bioavailability and has a spectrum of activity that covers the majority of skin and soft tissue infections, making it an appropriate first-line treatment option. When prescribing antibiotics for cellulitis, it is crucial to target the bacteria typically involved in these infections, and Keflex provides the necessary efficacy for this purpose.

Other antibiotics listed, such as Flagyl and Cipro, do not have optimal coverage for the pathogens usually responsible for cellulitis. Flagyl (metronidazole) is primarily effective against anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa, making it unsuitable for this type of skin infection. Cipro (ciprofloxacin) has a broader spectrum including some gram-negative organisms, but lacks sufficient coverage for the common gram-positive bacteria seen in cellulitis. Augmentin, which combines amoxicillin with clavulanate, is used for specific infections like bite wounds or mixed infections but is not typically the first choice for uncomplicated cellulitis