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If people are allergic to amoxicillin can they take cephalexin?

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 23, 2023.

If people are allergic to amoxicillin can they take cephalexin?

Official answer

by Drugs.com

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

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Penicillin or amoxicillin are considered the best first-line treatments for Strep throat. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) “ There has never been a report of a clinical isolate of group A strep that is resistant to penicillin”. For people with a penicillin allergy, treat Strep throat with either a narrow-spectrum cephalosporin (such as cephalexin or cefadroxil), clindamycin, azithromycin, or clarithromycin. Note that resistance to azithromycin and clarithromycin has been reported. Continue reading

Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking the antibiotic amoxicillin. The alcohol will not stop amoxicillin from working. However, many health professionals will recommend you avoid alcohol to give your body the best chance possible to fight the infection. Moderation is key. Continue reading

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