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If people are allergic to amoxicillin can they take cephalexin?

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 23, 2024.

If people are allergic to amoxicillin can they take cephalexin?

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Amoxicillin belongs to a group of antibiotics called Penicillins. If you are allergic to Penicillins then you are more likely to be allergic to a group of antibiotics called Cephalosporins of which Cephalexin is a member. Cephalexin should be avoided in a penicillin allergic patient.

Antibiotics such as clarithromycin, doxycycline and erthyromycin may be safe alternatives for you.

For more information on penicillin allergy and alternatives see:
https://www.drugs.com/drug-class/penicillins.html

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