Which antibiotic is typically used first-line for treating uncomplicated cellulitis?

The first-line antibiotic commonly used for treating uncomplicated cellulitis is Cephalexin. This cephalosporin antibiotic is effective against the bacteria typically responsible for cellulitis, particularly Streptococcus and Staphylococcus species, including Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA).

Cephalexin has good oral bioavailability and is generally well-tolerated, making it suitable for outpatient treatment of uncomplicated cellulitis. It effectively penetrates tissue, which is important for treating skin and soft tissue infections, like cellulitis, where the infection is located in the dermis and subcutaneous tissues.

While Clindamycin is effective for certain types of cellulitis, particularly those caused by anaerobic bacteria or in cases where a patient is allergic to beta-lactams, it is generally not the first choice unless specific criteria are met. The other options, Ciprofloxacin and Amoxicillin, do not have the same efficacy profile for treating uncomplicated cellulitis. Ciprofloxacin, primarily effective against gram-negative bacteria, is not ideal for this type of skin infection. Amoxicillin may not cover MSSA adequately, making it less suitable for uncomplicated cellulitis.

Therefore, Cephalexin is the most appropriate first-line treatment due to