Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Cefalexin requires a valid prescription.
Cefalexin
Generic Name: CEPHALEXIN
Cephalexin capsules, USP is a semisynthetic cephalosporin antibacterial drug intended for oral administration.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Cefalexin Used For?
- Otitis media caused by susceptible isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae
- Genitourinary tract infections
How Does It Work?
No information is available about the interaction of cephalexin and metformin following multiple doses of either drug. 12.4 Microbiology Mechanism of Action Cephalexin is a bactericidal agent that acts by the inhibition of bacterial cell-wall synthesis.
Dosage & Administration
- Treatment is administered for 7 to 14 days.
- For more severe infections larger doses of oral cephalexin capsules may be needed, up to 4 grams daily in two to four equally divided doses. 2.2 Pediatric Patients (over 1 year of age) The recommended total daily dose of oral cephalexin capsules for pediatric patients is 25 to 50 mg/kg given in equally divided doses for 7 to 14 days.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- Serious hypersensitivity (anaphylactic) reactions : Prior to use, inquire regarding history of hypersensitivity to beta-lactam antibacterial drugs.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- Cephalexin capsules are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or other members of the cephalosporin class of antibacterial drugs.
- Patients with known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or other members of the cephalosporin class of antibacterial drugs. ( 4 )
Drug Interactions
Cefalexin may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a general physician on Zospital
Consult a general physician on Zospital before starting Cefalexin. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Antibiotics Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Cefalexin – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Cefalexin, its uses, dosage and safety.
Cefalexin is commonly prescribed in India for: Otitis media caused by susceptible isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae, Genitourinary tract infections. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Cefalexin is sold in India under brand names such as Ceporex, Keflex, Sporidex, Ciplox, Cephalexin. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Cefalexin is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Cefalexin can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Headache, Dizziness, Fatigue, Abdominal pain. Less common but serious side effects can include: Serious, Agranulocytosis, Aplastic, Seizure. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
No information is available about the interaction of cephalexin and metformin following multiple doses of either drug. 12.4 Microbiology Mechanism of Action Cephalexin is a bactericidal agent that acts by the inhibition of bacterial cell-wall synthesis.
Cefalexin can interact with: Metformin, Administration, Clinical, Interaction. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Cefalexin.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Cefalexin for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Cefalexin depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Cefalexin during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹40 – ₹400 per strip of 10 tablets depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Cefalexin's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.