Cefalexin

Cefalexin is an antibiotic. It belongs to a group of antibiotics called cephalosporins.

It's used to treat bacterial infections, such as pneumonia and other chest infections, skin infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Cefalexin is only available on prescription. It comes as capsules, tablets or as a liquid for children and people who find it difficult to swallow capsules or tablets.

• You'll usually start to feel better in a few days, depending on the type of infection you have.


• The most common side effects of cefalexin are feeling sick (nausea) and diarrhoea.


• You can drink alcohol while taking cefalexin.


• It's important to keep taking cefalexin until you've completed the course, even if you feel better.

Cefalexin can be taken by most adults and children.

Cefalexin is not suitable for some people. To make sure cefalexin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• had an allergic reaction to cefalexin or any other medicine in the past


• kidney problems


• ever had a severe skin rash or skin peeling, blistering and/or mouth sores after taking antibiotics


• had severe or bloody diarrhoea when you've taken antibiotics before

Always follow the advice of your doctor and the instructions that come with your medicine.

Dosage

The dose of cefalexin can vary but for most infections you will take 500mg, two or three times a day.

The dose may be higher for severe infections and lower for children.

Try to space the doses evenly throughout the day. If you take it 3 times a day, this could be first thing in the morning, mid-afternoon and at bedtime.

Important

Keep taking this medicine until you've completed the course, even if you feel better. If you stop your treatment early, the infection could come back.

Cefalexin can be taken with or without food.

Capsules or tablets – swallow whole with a drink of water. Do not chew or break them.

Liquid – if you or your child are taking cefalexin as a liquid, it will usually be made up for you by a pharmacist. The medicine will come with a plastic syringe or medicine spoon to help you measure the right dose. If you do not have one, ask a pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not give the right amount.

What if I forget to take it?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Try to leave a gap of at least 4 hours between doses.

Never take 2 doses at the same time. Never take an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask a pharmacist for advice on other ways to remember your medicines.

What if I take too much?

Accidentally taking 1 extra dose of cefalexin is unlikely to harm you or your child.

Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're worried or you take 2 extra doses or more.