Cephalexin is a widely used antibiotic that belongs to the cephalosporin class of medication. It is mainly prescribed to treat bacterial infections such as pneumonia, strep throat, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and ear infections. The drug works by interfering with the production of bacterial cell walls, thus causing the death of the bacteria. However, like any antibiotic, cephalexin has its share of side effects that patients must know before taking the medication.
Common Cephalexin Side Effects
The most common cephalexin side effects include:
1. Diarrhea: One of the most common side effects associated with cephalexin is diarrhea. This is because the drug can affect the normal balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria that can result in diarrhea. Patients who experience severe or persistent diarrhea should talk to their doctor as soon as possible, as it can lead to dehydration.
2. Nausea: Nausea is also a common side effect of cephalexin. Patients may experience a feeling of queasiness and may also vomit. These symptoms can be mild or severe and may vary from patient to patient.
3. Vomiting: Cephalexin can cause vomiting in some patients, which is often accompanied by nausea. Patients should not take the medication on an empty stomach or after a heavy meal, as this can increase the likelihood of vomiting.
4. Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain is another common side effect of cephalexin. The pain may be mild or severe, and patients may also experience bloating and gas. Patients who experience severe abdominal pain should seek medical attention immediately.
5. Headache: Cephalexin can cause headaches in some patients. The headaches may be mild or severe and may last for a few hours to a few days.
6. Rash: Cephalexin can cause a rash in some patients. The rash may be mild or severe and may be accompanied by itching. Patients who experience a severe rash should seek medical attention immediately as it can be a sign of an allergic reaction.
7. Itching: Itching is another common side effect of cephalexin. Patients may experience itching all over the body or in specific areas.
Less Common but Serious Cephalexin Side Effects
While most cephalexin side effects are mild, some can be severe and require medical attention. These include:
1. Allergic reactions: Cephalexin can cause allergic reactions in some patients. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Patients who experience any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
2. Blood disorders: Cephalexin can cause a variety of blood disorders such as anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Symptoms of these disorders may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, fever, bruising, and bleeding gums. Patients who experience any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
3. Liver damage: Cephalexin can cause liver damage in some patients. Symptoms of liver damage may include yellowing of the skin and eyes, abdominal pain, dark urine, and clay-colored stools. Patients who experience any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
4. Kidney damage: Cephalexin can cause kidney damage in some patients. Symptoms of kidney damage may include decreased urination, swelling of the legs or arms, and fatigue. Patients who experience any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
5. Seizures: Cephalexin can cause seizures in some patients. Patients who have a history of seizures or who are taking medications that lower the seizure threshold should talk to their doctor before taking cephalexin.
6. Stevens-Johnson syndrome: Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare but serious skin condition that can be caused by cephalexin. Symptoms of the syndrome may include fever, blistering of the skin, and mucous membranes, and a general feeling of being unwell. Patients who experience any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
7. Clostridium difficile infection: Cephalexin can cause a Clostridium difficile infection in some patients. Symptoms of the infection may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Patients who experience any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
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Conclusion
Cephalexin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. While the drug is generally safe, it can cause some side effects that patients must know before taking the medication. Common side effects of cephalexin include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, rash, and itching. Serious side effects of cephalexin include allergic reactions, blood disorders, liver damage, kidney damage, seizures, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and Clostridium difficile infection.
Patients who experience any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions when taking cephalexin and to inform the doctor of any allergies, medical conditions, and other medications being taken.
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