Drug interactions
Cefalexin + Valganciclovir
Severity: Minor
Cefalexin and Valganciclovir: 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
Ganciclovir, the active form of valganciclovir, is eliminated by glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion, which cefalexin may compete for. Exposure to ganciclovir could rise, particularly in patients with reduced renal function, with a risk of myelosuppression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cefalexin and Valganciclovir 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; Valganciclovir belongs to Anti Virals.
Why it happens
Possible competition for renal tubular secretion of ganciclovir via organic anion transporters.
What to do
No empirical dose change is needed. Monitor blood counts and renal function, especially 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 Valganciclovir
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cefalexin with Valganciclovir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Cefalexin and Valganciclovir have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Ganciclovir, the active form of valganciclovir, is eliminated by glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion, which cefalexin may compete for. Exposure to ganciclovir could rise, particularly in patients with reduced renal function, with a risk of myelosuppression.
How serious is the interaction between Cefalexin and Valganciclovir?
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 empirical dose change is needed. Monitor blood counts and renal function, especially 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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