Cephalexin

Pronounced sef-ah-LEX-in

Brand names: Keflex

Type: Cephalosporin antibiotic · All Antibiotics & Infection Medicines

What Cephalexin is used for

  • Skin and soft tissue infections
  • Strep throat
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Bone infections

◆ Kidney note

Dose is given less often when kidney function is significantly reduced.

Common side effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Stomach upset
  • Dizziness

Important cautions

  • People with a serious penicillin allergy should discuss alternatives, as related reactions are possible

How it comes

Capsules, tablets, liquid. This guide lists forms only — it never lists strengths or doses.

Related medicines — Antibiotics & Infection Medicines

Please note: This page is a patient-education summary, not medical advice, and it deliberately contains no doses. Medicines affect everyone differently — always follow your own prescription and talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.