CEPHALEXIN

Who is Cephalexin for ?

Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria such as pneumonia and bone, ear, skin, and urinary tract infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. this medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. Cephalosporin antibiotics are similar to penicillin antibiotics. Cephalexin works by destroying the outer cell wall of bacteria, thus killing the bacteria without harming the body's own cells.

When should I be careful taking Cephalexin ?

Before taking cephalexin,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to cephalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotic such as cefadroxil (Duricef) or cephradine (Velosef), penicillin, or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other antibiotics, anticoagulants ("blood thinners") such as warfarin (Coumadin), probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, colitis, or stomach problems.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking cephalexin, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking cephalexin.

Side Effects

Although side effects from cephalexin are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• upset stomach
• diarrhea
• vomiting
• mild skin rash

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• severe skin rash
• itching
• hives
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• wheezing
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• sore throat
• painful mouth or throat sores
• vaginal infection