Cephalexin
Cephalexin is an oral first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used for selected susceptible bacterial infections. It is not a treatment for viral illness.
Key points
- Cephalexin is often considered for selected skin, urinary or respiratory bacterial infections based on likely susceptibility.
- A history of severe immediate penicillin or cephalosporin allergy requires careful assessment.
- Persistent watery or bloody diarrhoea can occur during or after antibiotic treatment and needs prompt review.
Select a listed product and pack to order online. Whether it suits you depends on the infection being treated; ask your doctor or pharmacist.
What cephalexin is used for
Cephalexin may be used for selected bacterial infections. The diagnosis, infection site and resistance pattern determine whether it is appropriate.
How it works
Cephalexin disrupts bacterial cell-wall formation. Completing the prescribed course and avoiding unnecessary use helps reduce treatment failure and resistance.
Important safety checks
Review antibiotic allergies, kidney function, pregnancy, previous antibiotic-associated colitis and anticoagulant treatment.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, fainting, blistering skin, severe or bloody diarrhoea, confusion or markedly reduced urine.
Further reading
What is cephalexin used for?
Cephalexin is an oral antibiotic used for some bacterial infections, including skin, urinary or chest infections, depending on which bacteria are likely to be causing them. It does not treat viral illnesses like colds or flu.
How does cephalexin work?
Cephalexin binds to penicillin-binding proteins in bacteria and stops them building their cell wall, which kills the bacteria.
Which products contain cephalexin?
Products containing cephalexin on SGMeds include Keflex and Keftab. Compare their forms, strengths and pack sizes.
What are the side effects of cephalexin?
Diarrhoea and nausea are common. Rash and vaginal discharge can also happen. Rarely, a severe allergic reaction or a serious skin reaction can occur, and these need urgent medical attention.
Can cephalexin be taken with other medicines?
Cephalexin interacts with a gout medicine (probenecid). If you take an anticoagulant (a blood thinner) or any other medicine, tell your doctor or pharmacist before you start.
What brand names is cephalexin sold under?
In other countries, cephalexin is also sold as Keforal. Brand names vary between countries, so compare products by their active ingredient.
How much does cephalexin cost in Singapore?
Each product on this page shows a price for each strength and pack size in Singapore dollars, converted from US dollars, so the exchange rate can change the final amount. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Do I need a prescription for cephalexin in Singapore?
No. SGMeds does not ask for a prescription to order cephalexin: we place the order with our pharmacy partner, which prepares it and arranges delivery on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver cephalexin to Singapore?
Yes. We deliver to Singapore and Malaysia. Express shipping is tracked and takes up to 1 week, and Regular shipping takes up to 3 weeks.
How ordering works →