Drug interactions
Cefalexin + Tolfenamic acid
Severity: Minor
Cefalexin and Tolfenamic acid: 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
Both agents are organic acids that may compete for renal tubular secretion, which could modestly raise tolfenamic acid exposure. Clinical consequences have not been well documented and are likely minimal.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cefalexin and Tolfenamic acid 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; Tolfenamic acid belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
Theoretical competition for renal tubular organic anion secretion.
What to do
No specific action is needed. Use the usual NSAID precautions regarding GI and renal adverse effects.
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 Tolfenamic acid
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cefalexin with Tolfenamic acid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Cefalexin and Tolfenamic acid have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Both agents are organic acids that may compete for renal tubular secretion, which could modestly raise tolfenamic acid exposure. Clinical consequences have not been well documented and are likely minimal.
How serious is the interaction between Cefalexin and Tolfenamic acid?
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 specific action is needed. Use the usual NSAID precautions regarding GI and renal adverse effects.
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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