What is cephalexin?
Cephalexin is in a group of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics. Cephalexin fights bacteria in the body.
Cephalexin is used to treat infections caused by bacteria, including upper respiratory infections, ear infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections.
Cephalexin may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about cephalexin?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to cephalexin, or to similar antibiotics, such as Ceclor, Ceftin, Cefzil, Duricef, Fortaz, Omnicef, Spectracef, Suprax, and others.
Before using cephalexin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs (especially penicillins), or if you have kidney or liver disease, a stomach or intestinal disorder such as colitis, diabetes, or if you are malnourished.
Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Cephalexin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking cephalexin?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to cephalexin, or to other cephalosporin antibiotics, such as:
cefaclor (Ceclor);
cefadroxil (Duricef);
cefdinir (Omnicef);
cefditoren (Spectracef);
cefixime (Suprax);
cefprozil (Cefzil);
ceftazidime (Fortaz); or
cefuroxime (Ceftin).
Before using cephalexin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs (especially penicillins), or if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take cephalexin.
The oral suspension (liquid) form of cephalexin may contain sugar. This may affect you if you have diabetes.
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Cephalexin can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.