Cephalexin Monohydrate
Cephalexin Monohydrate is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections. It works by interfering with bacteria's ability to form cell walls, ultimately killing the bacteria.
An antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections by disrupting bacterial cell wall formation.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 215948
- Generic
- Cephalexin Monohydrate
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, bone infections, and certain types of pneumonia. Also used for acute bacterial rhinosinusitis and otitis media.
As a beta-lactam antibiotic, cephalexin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), causing the bacterial cell wall to weaken and the bacteria to die.
Patients with penicillin allergies may have cross-reactivity. Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and nausea. Should be taken for the full prescribed duration even if symptoms improve. May interact with certain medications including probenecid and blood thinners.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy