Drug interactions
Cephalexin + Ibuprofen
Severity: Minor
Cephalexin and Ibuprofen: 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 is renally secreted via organic anion transporters and may compete with ibuprofen for tubular secretion. Any rise in ibuprofen exposure is expected to be small and clinically insignificant in most patients.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cephalexin and Ibuprofen 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 tubular organic anion secretion.
What to do
No routine adjustment is needed; be mindful of renal function in patients using both drugs.
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 Ibuprofen
- Ibuprofen + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- Ibuprofen + Ketorolac intranasal Contraindicated
- Acemetacin + Ibuprofen Major
- Alteplase + Ibuprofen Major
- Amiloride + Ibuprofen Major
- Apixaban + Ibuprofen Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cephalexin with Ibuprofen?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Cephalexin and Ibuprofen 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 is renally secreted via organic anion transporters and may compete with ibuprofen for tubular secretion. Any rise in ibuprofen exposure is expected to be small and clinically insignificant in most patients.
How serious is the interaction between Cephalexin and Ibuprofen?
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; be mindful of renal function in patients using both drugs.
What other medicines interact with Ibuprofen?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ibuprofen with, for example, Ketorolac, Ketorolac intranasal, Acemetacin. The full list is on the Ibuprofen page.
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