Drug interactions
Cefalexin + Probenecid
Severity: Minor
Cefalexin and Probenecid: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Probenecid reduces the renal tubular secretion of cefalexin, which raises and prolongs its serum concentrations. This can be used deliberately to boost exposure but may increase the risk of dose-related adverse effects, especially in renal impairment.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cefalexin and Probenecid have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Cefalexin belongs to Anti Bacterial; Probenecid belongs to Genitourinary.
Why it happens
Probenecid inhibits organic anion transporters in the renal tubule, decreasing tubular secretion of cefalexin.
What to do
No routine adjustment is needed if the effect is intended. Otherwise monitor for cefalexin adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset or hypersensitivity, and consider dose reduction in renal impairment.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Cefalexin
- Amikacin + Cefalexin Moderate
- Avelumab + Cefalexin Moderate
- Balstilimab + Cefalexin Moderate
- Bcg vaccine live + Cefalexin Moderate
- Cefalexin + Cholera vaccine Moderate
- Cefalexin + Kanamycin Moderate
Other interactions of Probenecid
- Ketorolac intranasal + Probenecid Contraindicated
- Ketorolac + Probenecid Contraindicated
- Baricitinib + Probenecid Major
- Ceftazidime / avibactam + Probenecid Major
- Methotrexate + Probenecid Major
- Pralatrexate + Probenecid Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cefalexin with Probenecid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Cefalexin and Probenecid have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Probenecid reduces the renal tubular secretion of cefalexin, which raises and prolongs its serum concentrations. This can be used deliberately to boost exposure but may increase the risk of dose-related adverse effects, especially in renal impairment.
How serious is the interaction between Cefalexin and Probenecid?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No routine adjustment is needed if the effect is intended. Otherwise monitor for cefalexin adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset or hypersensitivity, and consider dose reduction in renal impairment.
What other medicines interact with Cefalexin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cefalexin with, for example, Amikacin, Avelumab, Balstilimab. The full list is on the Cefalexin page.
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