Can Keflex Cause Itching In The Genital Area?

Posted on Wed, 16 Nov 2016

Question: I have been on Keflex for about a week for an infected finger. I have developed an itching condition in the genital area. Could it be from the Keflex? I had the same side affect some years back from Erythromycin. Are they in the same class of drugs?

Answered by Dr. Harish Naik (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Keflex does not belong to the same group as that of erythromycin

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome
I have gone through your query.
Keflex contains cephalosporin, it is an antibiotic and does not belong to the same group as that of erythromycin.
In the side effect profile of keflex, genital pruritus is mentioned as one of the side effect but it is not very commonly noted.

I would suggest you to talk to the consultant who has prescribed it, but I would also suggest you not to stop the medicines without informing the doctor.

You can take oral antihistamine like cetirizine in this situation. Along with it I would suggest you to wash the area with cool water and dermadew soap and use dusting powder like clocip.

Hope this helps
Take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Veerisetty Shyamkumar

Follow up: Dr. Harish Naik (2 hours later)

I also have hemorrhoids which rarely both me and they have been unusually irritated during this episode. Could that have been caused by the Keflex?

Answered by Dr. Harish Naik (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Keflex not responsible for haemorrhoids

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome
To my knowledge, I don't think the agent is responsible for causing haemorrhoids.
Hope this helps
Take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D