Cefoxitin and Cephalexin interaction
Cefoxitin and Cephalexin: both prescribing labels flag this combination with the strongest language, such as a contraindication, a boxed warning, or an instruction to avoid it.
Do not combine without a prescriber's guidance. The label language below is the strongest FDA uses.
What the FDA labels say
From the Cefoxitin (Cefoxitin and Dextrose) label · effective 2019-07-29
Hypersensitivity to cefoxitin or other beta-lactam antibacterial drugs.
Hypersensitivity to Cefoxitin or other Beta-lactam Antibacterial Drugs Cefoxitin for Injection and Dextrose Injection is contraindicated in patients who have shown hypersensitivity to cefoxitin or to other β-lactam antibacterial drugs (e.g., penicillins and cephalosporins).
Hypersensitivity Reactions to Cefoxitin or other Beta-lactam Antibacterial Drugs Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) have been reported in patients on β-lactam antibacterials, including cefoxitin [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] .
From the Cephalexin label · effective 2026-03-25
Cephalexin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or other members of the cephalosporin class of antibacterial drugs.
Patients with known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or other members of the cephalosporin class of antibacterial drugs.
Taking more than these two? Interactions stack. Check your whole list at once; it stays in your browser.
Open in the checkerNot medical advice. Interaction Checker quotes FDA label text and NIH fact sheets. Whether an interaction matters for you depends on doses, timing, kidney and liver function, and other conditions. Confirm with a pharmacist or prescriber.