Cephalexin monohydrate is a prescription antibiotic medication indicated to treat certain types of bacterial infections that affect the respiratory tract, ears, skin, bones or urinary tract. This antibiotic prevents bacterial replication and helps limit the spread of bacteria through the body. Before beginning treatment with cephalexin monohydrate, patients should discuss the side effects of this medication with a doctor.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is the most common side effect associated with cephalexin monohydrate treatment, explains Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed drug information website for consumers. Affected patients experience frequent bowel movement urges that produce watery or loose stools that may occur in conjunction with abdominal cramping or bloating. Health officials at RxList warn that patients can develop severe colitis or bowel inflammation during or following treatment with this medication. Use of this medication alters the normal levels of naturally-occurring bacteria within the body. Overgrowth of the specific bacterium C. difficile can be toxic, and may produce life-threatening colitis side effects in patients, explains RxList. Though these severe side effects are rare, patients who develop persistent or bloody diarrhea or stomach pain should seek medical care immediately.
Indigestion or Stomach Pain
Patients can experience indigestion or stomach pain following treatment with cephalexin monohydrate. These side effects can be uncomfortable and may contribute to decreased appetite in certain patients. Affected patients may notice that the abdomen is tender to touch, or may develop mild to moderate stomach cramping. A patient who develops severe or persistent stomach pain side effects during treatment should contact a medical professional immediately.
Fatigue, Headache or Dizziness
Patients receiving treatment with cephalexin monohydrate can develop side effects of fatigue, headache or dizziness, explains Drug.com. These side effects are uncomfortable and can affect a patient's ability to remain focused or alert while at work or school. Episodes of dizziness are typically temporary, but may cause a patient to appear unstable while standing or walking.
Joint Pain
Cephalexin monohydrate can cause side effects of joint pain in certain patients. Sensations of pain within the joints can also be accompanied by swelling or inflammation. Patients who develop severe joint pain or swelling during treatment with this medication may be unable to move the affected joint normally. These side effects should be reported to a medical professional as soon as possible.
Vaginal Infection
Women taking cephalexin monohydrate can develop a vaginal infection as a side effect of treatment, explains RxList. This medication alters the levels of naturally-occurring bacteria within the body, which can cause fungal overgrowth in the vagina. If this occurs, affected women can experience unusual vaginal itching or discharge. These side effects should be reported to a doctor immediately as affected women will require additional medication to resolve vaginal infection symptoms.
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