Ed A-Ceph

Cephalexin is a prescription medication used to treat bacterial infections. Cephalexin belongs to a group of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics, which kill the bacteria that lead to infections.

This medication comes in tablet, capsule, and oral suspension (liquid) forms. Cephalexin is taken up to 4 times a day with or without meals.

Common side effects of cephalexin include upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Serious side effects have been reported with cephalexin including:

Hypersensitivity reaction:  An allergic reaction is possible with cephalexin.  Tell your doctor if you are allergic to penicillin antibiotics such as amoxicillin (Moxatag) and ampicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics such as cephalexin (Keflex) and cefuroxime (Ceftin). Symptoms of an allergic reaction to cephalexin include:

• skin rash
• itching
• hives
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• sore throat
• vaginal infections
• dizziness
• fatigue
• headache
• agitation
• confusion
• hallucinations
• joint pain

Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea:  Cephalexin and other antibiotics can kill the “good” bacteria in the colon leading to a growth of C. difficile bacteria.  C. difficile is “bad” bacteria that can cause diarrhea.

Seizures associated with patients having poor kidney function

Medicines can interact with certain foods. In some cases, this may be harmful and your doctor may advise you to avoid certain foods.  In the case of cephalexin there are no specific foods that you must exclude from your diet when receiving cephalexin.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

The FDA categorizes medications based on safety for use during pregnancy. Five categories - A, B, C, D, and X, are used to classify the possible risks to an unborn baby when a medication is taken during pregnancy.

Cephalexin falls into category B.  Studies in animals have failed to demonstrate a risk to the unborn baby and there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women.

Take cephalexin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully.

Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage and schedule of cephalexin depending on the type and severity of your bacterial infection, as well as your age.  For most infections, 250 mg of cephalexin will be taken 4 times a day.  For more severe infections, 500 mg of cephalexin will be taken twice a day.  The usual dosage range of cephalexin is 1 to 4 grams a day, with a maximum dosage of 4 grams a day.

If you take too much cephalexin, call your healthcare provider or local Poison Control Center, or seek emergency medical attention right away.