Cephalosporins
Cefalexin
Urine infectionsChest infectionsSkin infections
Start a diary for this antibiotic
Usually prescribed for:Urine infection (cystitis)
Information follows NICE antimicrobial prescribing guidance and the BNF.
Common side effects
- Diarrhoea
- Feeling sick
- Stomach pain
- Thrush
How often each one happens varies by medicine and product, so check your leaflet. Many are mild, but ask your pharmacist or doctor if they are troublesome or do not settle.
Less common side effects
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Rash
- Tiredness
Get medical help straight away if you notice
- Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea
- Severe allergic reaction
Taking it safely
- Can be taken with or without food.
- Tell your prescriber about any penicillin allergy — reactions can overlap.
Report a side effect
You can report any suspected side effect to the UK Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.