Berry asked
I have an infection and am taking Keflex. I am wondering if it was safe to take Benadryl with it.
Answer
Keflex (cephalexin) and Benadryl (diphenhydramine) are safe to take together. There is no interaction between the two medications.
Benadryl use may be helpful in reducing symptoms associated with certain bacterial infections that Keflex is used for, such as upper respiratory tract infections.
Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a first-generation antihistamine. Each dose will begin to work in about 30 minutes to one hour and will last around 4 to 6 hours.
In addition to its use for treating seasonal allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, Benadryl is also effective for treating vertigo associated with motion sickness and insomnia due to its sedating properties.
Benadryl is generally well tolerated but can cause the following side effects:
- Sedation
- Dizziness
- Respiratory depression (rare)
Keflex (Cephalexin)
Keflex (cephalexin) is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, structurally related to penicillin. Keflex is used for a wide range of bacterial infections but is most commonly used to treat respiratory and skin infections.
Keflex is generally well tolerated with GI side effects being the most common.
Summary
- There is no interaction between Benadryl and Keflex and they can be taken together safely.
