Often used for:
N/A
What is cephalexin?
Cephalexin is used to prevent or treat infections. It is available in 250 mg and 500 mg capsules and a mixed berry-flavored liquid suspension, all taken by mouth.
How to take and store cephalexin
- Cephalexin may be taken with or without food; take with food if stomach pain occurs.
- Shake the liquid well before each dose and measure with an oral syringe or medicine cup.
- Store liquid cephalexin in the refrigerator.
- Discard the liquid medicine after 14 days or on the labeled expiration date.
Possible side effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Stomach pain
- Allergic reaction symptoms can include rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, swelling in the facial area, and joint pain
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck
- Not all patients who take cephalexin will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.
Tips for patients and families
- Discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to other cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotics before taking cephalexin.
- Report allergy symptoms or severe or watery diarrhea right away.
- Do not take cephalexin with probenecid unless your doctor approves, as it may increase cephalexin levels.
- Cephalexin may cause a false-positive urine glucose test.
- Finish all doses exactly as instructed, even if symptoms improve.
