Cephalexin® Capsules for Bacterial Infections

Cephalexin is an oral antibiotic used to treat common bacterial infections. It can help with skin, urinary, ear, and respiratory infections when prescribed by your clinician. This page explains how it works, typical use, and how you can arrange US shipping from Canada, including options if you pay without insurance.

What Cephalexin Is and How It Works

Cephalexin® belongs to the first-generation cephalosporin class. It stops susceptible bacteria from building protective cell walls, which may help your body clear the infection. Border Free Health connects U.S. patients with licensed Canadian partner pharmacies; prescriptions are verified with prescribers before dispensing.

This medicine is available as capsules, tablets, and a reconstituted oral suspension. Antibiotics in this class generally cover many gram-positive organisms and some gram-negative strains. Cephalexin liquid is often used for people who have trouble swallowing solids. Always follow your prescriber’s directions and the official label.

Who It’s For

This treatment may be prescribed for skin and soft tissue infections, strep throat, otitis media, certain respiratory tract infections, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections. It can be used in adults and children when the organism is susceptible and a beta-lactam is appropriate. Cephalexin tablets might be chosen when a solid oral form is preferred.

People with a history of severe allergy to cephalosporins should not use it. Those with immediate-type penicillin allergy may also be at higher risk of cross-reactivity; discuss risks with your clinician. For condition details, see Urinary Tract Infection, Skin And Soft Tissue Infection, Respiratory Tract Infection, and Otitis Media.

Dosage and Usage

Use exactly as prescribed and for the full course, even if you feel better earlier. Typical adult schedules are divided doses throughout the day, and pediatric dosing is weight-based; the label provides standardized ranges. Take capsules or tablets with a glass of water. Food may lessen stomach upset for some people.

The oral suspension should be measured with a marked device. Shake well before each dose. If your clinician prescribes a specific duration for throat infections, complete that course as directed. Cephalexin monohydrate is the active ingredient; pharmacists may dispense different approved manufacturers.

Do not change your schedule without consulting your prescriber. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice promptly.

Strengths and Forms

Common presentations include capsules or tablets, and an oral suspension prepared by the pharmacy. Frequently used strengths include Cephalexin 250 mg and 500 mg. Availability can vary by manufacturer and stock. Your pharmacy may offer bottle counts that align with your prescribed course length.

Missed Dose and Timing

If you miss a dose, take it when you remember. If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double up. Keeping a simple reminder on your phone or calendar can help maintain steady levels.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store solid forms in a tightly closed container and keep them dry. Protect from excessive heat and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. For the oral suspension, follow the label directions provided by your pharmacist, and discard any unused liquid after the labeled period.

When traveling, keep medicines in original labeled containers within your carry-on. Pack a copy of your prescription or a photo of the label. Use a small pill organizer only if it will not cause confusion with your schedule. If you cross time zones, aim to keep evenly spaced doses over 24 hours rather than exact clock times.

Benefits

This cephalosporin class can be useful for common community infections when organisms are likely susceptible. It is available in multiple oral forms, which can help with adherence. Twice-daily schedules are sometimes used when your prescriber deems appropriate, which may fit routines better than more frequent dosing.

Side Effects and Safety

• Upset stomach or nausea
• Diarrhea or loose stools
• Abdominal discomfort
• Rash or itching
• Headache

Serious effects are uncommon but can include severe allergic reactions, breathing difficulty, facial swelling, blistering rash, or signs of severe diarrhea that may indicate C. difficile–associated colitis. Seek urgent help if you develop symptoms of anaphylaxis or severe skin reactions. People with kidney impairment may need special consideration. Report persistent or severe diarrhea, as antibiotics can disrupt normal gut flora.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Tell your clinician and pharmacist about all medicines, vitamins, and supplements you use. Probenecid can increase beta-lactam levels. Warfarin and other anticoagulants may show enhanced effects; monitoring is often recommended. Some lab glucose tests may be affected; let your care team know you are taking an antibiotic.

Live oral vaccines such as typhoid may be less effective while on systemic antibacterials. People with a history of severe hypersensitivity, prior severe cutaneous reactions, or antibiotic-associated colitis should use with caution under medical supervision. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, your prescriber will weigh potential benefits and risks.

What to Expect Over Time

Many people notice gradual symptom relief as the infection comes under control. Continue taking doses as prescribed for the full length of therapy to reduce the chance of relapse or resistance. Supportive measures, like hydration and rest, can help you feel better while the antibiotic does its work.

Upper airway symptoms sometimes stem from allergies or viruses rather than bacteria. If your clinician suspects allergies, you can learn more about common triggers and management in Allergic Rhinitis. Always follow your prescriber’s guidance on when antibiotics are appropriate.

Compare With Alternatives

For some infections, a prescriber may consider alternatives in different classes. A fluoroquinolone like Ciprofloxacin may be used when indicated by susceptibility and local guidance. A second-generation cephalosporin such as Ceftin® Suspension (cefuroxime) is another option for certain respiratory or skin infections. Decisions depend on the organism, site of infection, and your clinical history. Keflex 500 mg is a branded reference for the same active ingredient; your pharmacy may dispense an equivalent generic when prescribed.

Pricing and Access

We list the current Cephalexin price upfront so you can plan your budget. Many patients use cash-pay when deductibles are high. You can compare options and still arrange US delivery from Canada. If you are looking for coupons, see our periodic offers on Promotions. For a broader view of similar therapies, browse Antibiotics. We use encrypted checkout to protect your information.

Product origin details are shown on each page; where applicable, see Canada for country-of-origin listings.

Availability and Substitutions

Supply can vary by manufacturer and strength. If a selected form is unavailable, your prescriber may recommend an equivalent alternative that suits your clinical needs. We cannot guarantee restock dates, but our team can help you switch to an available option with your prescriber’s approval.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

This medicine may suit patients who need an oral cephalosporin for a susceptible infection and can take beta-lactams safely. It may not be appropriate if you have had severe cephalosporin reactions or certain serious skin reactions. People with significant kidney impairment require careful oversight by a clinician.

To save on overall costs, ask your prescriber whether a multi-month fill makes sense for recurring needs like chronic suppressive therapy when indicated. Use calendar reminders for refills so you do not miss doses between packs. Keeping to the prescribed schedule helps avoid extra clinic visits and additional therapies caused by incomplete courses.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• Is a cephalosporin appropriate for the organism suspected or confirmed?
• How long should I take this antibiotic for my infection?
• What signs mean I should contact your office or seek urgent care?
• Could any of my medicines interact with this antibiotic?
• Are there food or probiotic tips to reduce stomach upset?
• What are the best steps if I miss a dose?
• When should I schedule follow-up if symptoms do not improve?

Authoritative Sources

DailyMed: Cephalexin Capsules

Health Canada DPD: Cephalexin Product Monograph

DailyMed: Keflex Prescribing Information

If your prescriber agrees, you can place your order today—Ships from Canada to US with prompt, express shipping. This information is educational and not a substitute for medical advice; always follow your clinician’s recommendations and the official label.