Related to this topic: Patient+ | Equipment | Books | Your Experience | Other resources | Glossaries
Print options: 
Other options:
(what's this?)
Cefalexin
About cefalexin
Cefalexin is one of a group of antibiotics known as cephalosporins.
Cefalexin is a broad spectrum antibiotic which means it is active against a wide variety of bacteria.
Cefalexin treats bacterial infections by destroying the bacteria that cause infection.
Cefalexin is also sometimes spelt cephalexin. You may notice the use of either name on the packaging of your medicine.
Cefalexin is available in capsule, tablet and oral liquid form.
It is also sometimes known as: Ceporex; Keflex. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.
Before taking cefalexin
Before taking any of this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
- if you suffer from kidney problems
- if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine, penicillin antibiotics or any other medicine
- if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines
How to take cefalexin
- Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
- Always read the printed information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
- Take this medicine at regular intervals and complete the prescribed course. It is important to take the full course, even if you feel your infection has cleared up, to prevent the infection reoccurring.
- Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of cefalexin contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
- Cefalexin is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside cefalexin.
- Some people develop thrush after taking a course of antibiotics. If you think you have thrush speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
- Important: Oral contraceptives can be less effective when taken with cefalexin. To prevent an unwanted pregnancy you should use a barrier method of contraception such as a condom while you are taking cefalexin and for at least 7 days after the course of treatment has ended. If the week following the antibiotic course runs into your pill free week, the next pack of oral contraceptives should be started immediately, without a break. If you are taking the form of contraceptive pill which is taken every day or need further advice, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Can cefalexin cause problems?
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted symptoms. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following symptoms continue or become troublesome.
Diarrhoea is a common side effect. Others include tummy pains, occasionally feeling and being sick, headache, hyperactivity, nervousness, problems sleeping, confusion, muscle tightness, dizziness.
Important: If you experience any of the following symptoms stop taking cefalexin and contact your doctor immediately: Skin rash, itching, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), fever (high temperature), joint pains or swelling of the tongue, throat or face.
If you experience any other worrying symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store cefalexin
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
- Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.
Any more questions?
If you have any more questions about this or any other medicine your pharmacist will be able to answer them for you.