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Cefalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a range of bacterial infections, including infections of the bladder and urinary tract.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when bacteria get into the urethra and bladder. Common symptoms include a burning or stinging feeling when you pass urine, needing to pass urine more often or more urgently, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine.
Cefalexin may be prescribed for a UTI when other antibiotics are not suitable, for example during pregnancy.
Cefalexin damages the cell wall of the bacteria causing the infection, so they cannot grow and survive.
This allows the infection to clear and your symptoms to settle.
We supply cefalexin as 500mg capsules in a pack of 14.
For a mild, uncomplicated UTI the usual adult dose is one 500mg capsule every 12 hours. A pack of 14 capsules gives a 7-day course.
Our prescriber will confirm the right course for you based on your consultation.
Most people notice their symptoms improving within a few days. Swallow each capsule whole with water and space your doses evenly through the day.
Keep taking the capsules until the course is finished, even if you feel better. If your symptoms have not improved or they get worse, speak to a doctor or pharmacist.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
If you take too much, contact a doctor or your nearest hospital emergency department straight away and take the pack with you.
Nitrofurantoin and trimethoprim are the first-choice antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs. Cefalexin and pivmecillinam are alternatives when these are not suitable. Our prescriber will choose the most appropriate option for you.
Cefalexin is not known to reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraception. If you have vomiting or severe diarrhoea while taking it, follow the advice in your contraceptive pill leaflet, as this can stop the pill from being absorbed.
Common side effects include diarrhoea, nausea, indigestion, headache, dizziness, a mild rash and vaginal thrush. Stop taking it and get medical advice straight away if you develop wheezing, swelling of the face or throat, a severe or blistering rash, or severe or persistent diarrhoea.
No. Cefalexin is a prescription-only medicine. You can request it from Westbury Chemist by completing an online consultation, which our prescriber will review before your treatment is supplied.
Cefalexin isn't right for everyone. It should not be taken if you are allergic to cephalosporin antibiotics, and you should tell our prescriber if you have ever had a reaction to penicillin, have kidney problems, or take metformin, probenecid or blood-thinning medicines. Here's all the official information on it. If anything doesn't make sense, just let our clinician know, and they can discuss it with you.
Medicines can cause side effects. Always read the leaflet that comes with your medication and report any side effects to your pharmacist.
The electronic medicines compendium (emc) publishes the official leaflets for licensed UK medicines.
Every online consultation is reviewed by one of our pharmacists before any medicine is supplied. Each clinician is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council, and you can check their registration using the Verify link.
Superintendent Pharmacist and Independent Prescriber
Leads clinical governance at Westbury Chemist. Clinical interests include acute respiratory conditions, urinary tract infections and musculoskeletal conditions.
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber
Clinical interests include ear, nose and throat conditions, high blood pressure and weight management.
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber
Clinical interests include asthma, COPD and the management of long-term conditions.
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