Cephalexin is in a group of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics and is used to fight bacteria, according to Drugs.com. It works by interfering with the bacteria's cell wall formation thus weakening the wall, causing it to rupture, and killing the bacteria. Cephalexin is used to treat infections caused by bacteria, including upper respiratory infections, ear infections, skin infections and urinary tract infections.
Yeast Infection
Yeast infections are a common side effect for those taking antibiotics, especially women. They typically occur around the vagina and the vulva--the opening to the vaginal area, according to eMedTV. While a certain amount of yeast is commonly found in the vaginal area, a yeast infection occurs when an overgrowth of yeast takes place due to a loss of balance between the yeast and other organisms in the vagina. Symptoms include vaginal burning or itching, pain during intercourse or upon urination, abnormal vaginal discharge and an itching or burning in the vulva. The treatment for a yeast infection is an antifungal cream; therefore, patients taking Cephalexin need to report these symptoms immediately to their doctors.
Mild Diarrhea
RxList states that the most frequent side effect of Cephalexin is diarrhea, a gastrointestinal condition causing patients to experience loose, watery stools at least three times in one day. Patients with diarrhea usually pass more than a quart of watery stool per day. Abdominal cramping may also accompany this side effect. In most cases diarrhea will subside without intervention; however, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated. Should this side effect persist and last longer than two or three days, patients should contact their doctors.
Headache
Patients taking Cephalexin may experience a headache as well, which can affect more than the head. Pain can travel to the face, mouth and neck, and in some, a headache can additionally cause the teeth to ache. Most over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can relieve the pain. Patients suffering from a headache as a side effect of their medication may want to speak with their doctors first, especially if the headaches are recurring or becoming worse. The doctor may decide to prescribe a different pain medication or use a different antibiotic to treat the patient's infection.
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