Drug interactions
Cephalexin + Diclofenac
Severity: Minor
Cephalexin and Diclofenac: 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
Cephalexin and diclofenac are both acidic drugs that are secreted by renal tubular anion transporters, so competition could modestly raise levels of either. Clinically relevant effects are unlikely in patients with normal renal function.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cephalexin and Diclofenac 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
Competition for renal organic anion tubular secretion.
What to do
No routine adjustment is needed; monitor renal function in patients with kidney impairment or on prolonged 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 Diclofenac
- Diclofenac + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- Diclofenac + Ketorolac intranasal Contraindicated
- Aceclofenac + Diclofenac Major
- Acemetacin + Diclofenac Major
- Alteplase + Diclofenac Major
- Amiloride + Diclofenac Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cephalexin with Diclofenac?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Cephalexin and Diclofenac have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Cephalexin and diclofenac are both acidic drugs that are secreted by renal tubular anion transporters, so competition could modestly raise levels of either. Clinically relevant effects are unlikely in patients with normal renal function.
How serious is the interaction between Cephalexin and Diclofenac?
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; monitor renal function in patients with kidney impairment or on prolonged therapy.
What other medicines interact with Diclofenac?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Diclofenac with, for example, Ketorolac, Ketorolac intranasal, Aceclofenac. The full list is on the Diclofenac page.
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