Cephalexin

Antibiotic (cephalosporin)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Cephalexin is a antibiotic (cephalosporin) found in 2 medicines sold in India, such as Phexin 500, Phexin 250. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: cefalexin

What it is used for

Treats skin, throat, ear, bone and urine infections.

How it works

A first-generation cephalosporin for skin, bone, throat and urinary infections.

How to take it

Usually 250 to 500 mg every 6 to 12 hours, with or without food. Finish the full course.

Common side effects

  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea
  • Indigestion

Get medical help straight away if

  • Severe diarrhoea
  • Allergic reaction

Be careful

Finish the course; caution if allergic to penicillin.

Other medicines and interactions

Caution with penicillin allergy. Can raise metformin levels slightly.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Brands of Cephalexin (2)

Phexin 250Phexin 500

Common questions

What is Cephalexin used for?

Treats skin, throat, ear, bone and urine infections.

How does Cephalexin work?

A first-generation cephalosporin for skin, bone, throat and urinary infections.

How should I take Cephalexin?

Usually 250 to 500 mg every 6 to 12 hours, with or without food. Finish the full course.

What are the side effects of Cephalexin?

Common: Diarrhoea, nausea, indigestion. Get help straight away for: Severe diarrhoea, allergic reaction.

Does Cephalexin interact with other medicines?

Caution with penicillin allergy. Can raise metformin levels slightly.

Is Cephalexin safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Cephalexin need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Cephalexin?

Phexin 250, Phexin 500.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.