Cephalexin Anhydrous: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
Cephalexin Capsules USP are indicated for the treatment of the following infections when caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms: Respiratory tract infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label dec3a1ef…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
No structured frequency data available in current labeling. Consult the official label.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
Cephalexin Capsules USP are indicated for the treatment of the following infections when caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms: Respiratory tract infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes . (Penicillin is the usual drug of choice in the treatment and prevention of streptococcal infections, including the prophylaxis of rheumatic fever. Cephalexin is generally effective in the eradication of streptococci from the nasopharynx; however, substantial data establishing the efficacy of cephalexin in the subsequent prevention of rheumatic fever are not available at present.) Otitis media due to Streptococcus pneumoniae , Haemophilus influenzae , Staphylococcus aureus , Streptococcus pyogenes , and Moraxella catarrhalis . Skin and skin structure infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and/or Streptococcus pyogenes . Bone infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and/or Proteus mirabilis . Genitourinary tract infections, including acute prostatitis, caused by Escherichia coli , Proteus mirabilis , and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Note – Culture and susceptibility tests should be initiated prior to and during therapy. Renal function studies…
Conditions associated with Cephalexin Anhydrous in labeling
Ear Infection (Otitis Media)
Infection or inflammation of the middle ear, common in children, causing ear pain, fever, and sometimes fluid ...
Otitis Media
Infection or inflammation of the middle ear, common in children, causing ear pain, fever, and sometimes hearin...
Prostatitis
Inflammation or infection of the prostate gland causing pelvic pain, urinary symptoms, and sometimes fever....
Rheumatic fever
Rheumatic fever is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cephalexin Anhydrous used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Cephalexin Anhydrous?
Current labeling for this ingredient does not include a structured frequency table that we can reproduce. Review the official label linked below.
Does Cephalexin Anhydrous require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Cephalexin Anhydrous.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.