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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can Cephalexin Be Taken While Being Allergic To Penicillin?

I have an upper respiratory infection and am allergic to penicillin--although lately I have been given penicillin products that I have been told by my pharmacists have been chan ged-and I have not had any allergic reaction to them. Would I b.dilley@columbuse able to take cephalexin? YYYY@YYYY
Tue, 13 Dec 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

I understand your concern. It is a general belief that people who are allergic to penicillin can have a cross reaction to cephalosporins, which is wide class od drugs and is categorized in first, second and third generations. Cephalexin belongs to the first generation of cephalosporins.
The truth is, only 10% of people who have allergy to penicillin can have a reaction to first generation cephalosporins, so they are usually not prescribed to such patients.
Second and third generation cephalosporins should be safe for usage. Since cephalexin is a first generation cephalosporin, for peace of mind and just to be on the safe side, you may opt out of taking it and ask your doctor for an alternative.
Wishing you good health all the best.
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Can Cephalexin Be Taken While Being Allergic To Penicillin?

Hello, I understand your concern. It is a general belief that people who are allergic to penicillin can have a cross reaction to cephalosporins, which is wide class od drugs and is categorized in first, second and third generations. Cephalexin belongs to the first generation of cephalosporins. The truth is, only 10% of people who have allergy to penicillin can have a reaction to first generation cephalosporins, so they are usually not prescribed to such patients. Second and third generation cephalosporins should be safe for usage. Since cephalexin is a first generation cephalosporin, for peace of mind and just to be on the safe side, you may opt out of taking it and ask your doctor for an alternative. Wishing you good health all the best.