Cephalexin 500mg

Generic For: Keflex

Cephalexin 500mg (brand name Keflex) is a prescription cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, urinary tract, respiratory tract, ears, and bones. It is not available over the counter, but you can complete a quick online visit — after a licensed provider reviews your information and issues a prescription, your medication ships from a licensed U.S. pharmacy.

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10-day supply · $0.71/capsule

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  1. Select your medication
  2. Licensed providers review & prescribe
  3. Our licensed U.S. pharmacists fill your prescription
  4. Delivered to you as soon as the next day

Price: $20.00

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Buy Cephalexin 500mg (Keflex) Online

A cephalosporin antibiotic for skin infections, urinary tract infections, and respiratory infections

Cephalexin 500mg Quick Facts

Drug classCephalosporin antibiotic
TreatsSkin infections, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, ear infections
FormCapsule
Typical dosingTake 1 capsule by mouth three times a day for 10 days.
Prescription requiredYes — prescription only

What Is Cephalexin 500mg?

Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic sold under the brand name Keflex. It works by interfering with the formation of bacterial cell walls, which stops susceptible bacteria from growing. Doctors commonly prescribe cephalexin 500mg capsules for skin infections, urinary tract infections, and certain respiratory and ear infections. Because it is a prescription medication in the U.S., you cannot buy cephalexin over the counter — a licensed provider must evaluate you first.

What Does Cephalexin 500mg Treat?

Skin and skin structure infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Respiratory tract infections
Middle ear infections (otitis media)
Bone infections
Acute prostatitis

Cephalexin 500mg Dosage

Adults: 250 mg by mouth every 6 hours, or 500 mg by mouth every 12 hours
Typical range: 1–4 g daily in divided doses, for 7–14 days
Dose and duration depend on the infection; follow your prescriber's directions

Your prescriber will determine the dose and duration that are right for you. Always follow the directions on your prescription label.

Cephalexin 500mg Side Effects

Common side effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Indigestion or stomach pain
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Vaginal itching or discharge

Serious side effects

Stop taking this medication and seek medical attention right away if you experience:

  • Severe allergic reaction (rash, hives, swelling, trouble breathing)
  • Severe or persistent watery/bloody diarrhea (C. difficile infection)
  • Severe blistering or peeling skin reactions
  • Seizures
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes

Warnings & Interactions

Do not use if allergic to cephalexin or other cephalosporin antibiotics
Use caution with a history of penicillin allergy (possible cross-reactivity)
Can cause C. difficile–associated diarrhea, even weeks after treatment ends
Dose adjustment may be needed with kidney impairment
May increase metformin levels; probenecid can raise cephalexin levels
Treats bacterial infections only — not effective against viruses like colds or flu
Finish the full prescribed course even if you feel better

Tell your prescriber about all medications, supplements, and health conditions before starting cephalexin 500mg.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is cephalexin without insurance?

Cephalexin is a generic antibiotic, so cash prices without insurance are typically low compared with brand-name drugs. Your exact cost depends on the quantity prescribed and the pharmacy — our current price is shown on this page before checkout.

How much does cephalexin 500mg cost?

The cost of cephalexin 500mg capsules varies by quantity and days' supply. Because it is available as a generic, a standard course is generally affordable; see this page for our up-to-date pricing.

Can you get cephalexin over the counter?

No. Cephalexin is a prescription-only antibiotic in the United States and cannot be purchased over the counter. A licensed healthcare provider must determine that it is appropriate for your infection before it can be dispensed.

Do you need a prescription for cephalexin?

Yes, a prescription is required by U.S. law. If you don't have one, you can complete an online health questionnaire here, and a licensed provider will review it and issue a prescription if cephalexin is appropriate for you.

Where can I buy cephalexin for humans?

Human-grade cephalexin should only be purchased from a licensed pharmacy with a valid prescription. Fish or pet versions of cephalexin sold online are not FDA-approved for human use and should never be taken by people.

How does ordering and shipping work?

Complete a short online medical questionnaire, and a licensed provider reviews your information. If a prescription is issued, our licensed U.S. pharmacy fills your order and ships it to your address, with tracking provided.