Skip to main content

If people are allergic to amoxicillin can they take cephalexin?

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 23, 2024.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

If people are allergic to amoxicillin can they take cephalexin?

Amoxicillin belongs to a group of antibiotics called Penicillins. If you are allergic to Penicillins then you are more likely to be allergic to a group of antibiotics called Cephalosporins of which Cephalexin is a member. Cephalexin should be avoided in a penicillin allergic patient.

Antibiotics such as clarithromycin, doxycycline and erthyromycin may be safe alternatives for you.

For more information on penicillin allergy and alternatives see:
https://www.drugs.com/drug-class/penicillins.html

Read next

What are the best antibiotics for a tooth infection?

There are several antibiotics that kill the common mouth bacteria that cause tooth infections. The best (first-line) antibiotics for tooth infection include: Amoxicillin, Penicillin, Cephalexin, Clindamycin, Azithromycin. Amoxicillin is often the first choice because it is widely effective and has the fewest gastrointestinal side effects. Continue reading

What is the Best Antibiotic for Strep Throat?

Penicillin and amoxicillin are the first-choice antibiotics for strep throat. According to the CDC, Group A Streptococcus (the bacteria that cause Strep throat) has never shown resistance to penicillin, making it the gold standard treatment.

Continue reading

Is Cephalexin safe for dogs? Uses, dosage, side effects?

Cephalexin is safe to use in dogs when under the supervision of a veterinarian. It is commonly prescribed for bacterial infections. Side effects are usually mild, and giving it with food might help prevent some stomach side effects.

Continue reading

See also:

Related medical questions

Drug information

Related support groups