About Cephalexin
Cephalexin contains cephalexin. Its medication class is cephalosporin antibiotic. It may be used for selected skin and soft-tissue bacterial infections and selected throat, respiratory or urinary bacterial infections, depending on the exact product, diagnosis and the person’s health profile. It interferes with bacterial cell-wall formation and kills susceptible bacteria.
Whether Cephalexin is appropriate depends on the diagnosis, exact product and strength, health history, other medicines and available follow-up. A general guide cannot determine whether this treatment is right for you.
Common uses
Approved or recognized uses may vary by formulation, strength, age and clinical setting. This list is not complete.
- selected skin and soft-tissue bacterial infections
- selected throat, respiratory or urinary bacterial infections
How this medication works
This summary explains the mechanism at a general level; it does not provide treatment or dosing instructions.
- It interferes with bacterial cell-wall formation and kills susceptible bacteria.
- Brand, strength and formulation can change a medication’s use and risk.
Safety
Side effects and safety considerations
Adverse effects vary between people. The label, Canadian product monograph and a pharmacist’s advice remain the product-specific references.
- Diarrhea, nausea or rash can occur. A serious penicillin or cephalosporin allergy, kidney function and persistent diarrhea need review.
- This page does not replace the product monograph, your pharmacist’s advice or a consultation. It provides no personalized dose and does not confirm that a product is available or appropriate.
LASO MD
What a healthcare professional may review
A request for a Cephalexin prescription or renewal begins with an assessment of the indication, expected benefit, risks and required follow-up.
- The symptoms, their duration and whether testing or an examination is needed
- Medication allergies, prior reactions and antibiotics or anti-infectives used recently
- Pregnancy, kidney or liver health and conditions that may change treatment choice
- Whether the likely cause is bacterial, fungal or viral and whether this medicine fits it
When to get help quickly
Seek prompt care for trouble breathing, facial or throat swelling, a widespread blistering rash, severe weakness, confusion, dehydration, rapidly worsening symptoms or persistent watery or bloody diarrhea.