Drug interactions
Cefalexin + Sulfasalazine
Severity: Minor
Cefalexin and Sulfasalazine: 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
Sulfasalazine and its metabolites are acidic and partly secreted by renal tubular transporters, so competition with cefalexin is possible. Clinically meaningful effects have not been established.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cefalexin and Sulfasalazine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Possible competition for renal tubular anion secretion; clinical relevance is unproven.
What to do
No dose change is needed. Continue routine monitoring of sulfasalazine therapy.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cefalexin with Sulfasalazine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Cefalexin and Sulfasalazine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Sulfasalazine and its metabolites are acidic and partly secreted by renal tubular transporters, so competition with cefalexin is possible. Clinically meaningful effects have not been established.
How serious is the interaction between Cefalexin and Sulfasalazine?
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 dose change is needed. Continue routine monitoring of sulfasalazine therapy.
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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