Does Cephalexin make you pee a lot? (+3 side effects)

In this article, we will explore whether Cephalexin can make you pee more or not, what research suggests about it, what the potential side effects of Cephalexin are, what other factors can make you pee a lot while taking Cephalexin and what to do if Cephalexin makes you pee more. 

Does Cephalexin make you pee a lot?

No, Cephalexin does not make you pee a lot. It is not a commonly reported side effect of taking Cephalex among individuals. Research studies do not associate increased urination as a side effect of taking Cephalexin. 

Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It is a cell wall synthesis inhibitor that stops the growth of bacteria in the body of the individual. For this reason, it is used to treat certain bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections, sinus infections or skin infections etc (1).

If you are taking Cephalexin for any of the bacterial infections and you experience increased urination or it makes you pee a lot then you need to consult your healthcare provider. They can help you determine the exact cause of increased urination and provide you the treatment accordingly.

What does research suggest?

According to research studies, Cephalexin is not found to cause increased urination. However, some other cephalosporins can cause these effects and some may make you pee more than others. Here is a list of cephalosporins that can make you pee more (2). 

What are the side effects associated with Cephalexin?

Cephalexin has a significant list of its side effects but increased urination is not among them. Some commonly reported side effects of Cephalexin are (3):

• Gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, loss of appetite, heartburn, and yeast infection.
• Central nervous system effects include dizziness, headache, fatigue etc.
• Effects on skin including itching and rash.
• Allergic reactions such as hives or swelling etc.

Some less common side effects may include:

• Decreased white blood cell count
• Difficulty urinating
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Jaundice
• Fever and chills

What factors may contribute to diuresis while taking Cephalexin?

If you have to pee more after taking Cephalexin then you need to consult your healthcare provider as Cephalexin may not be the sole cause of this increased urination. Some other factors in your body might be interacting with Cephalexin action to make you pee more. Some of these factors may include:

• Increased doses of medication
• Increased duration of medication
• Individual sensitivity
• Underlying medical conditions
• Concurrent medications
• lifestyle factors
• Environmental factors

It is important to note that not every person taking Cephalexin might experience increased urination. Side effects of medications including Cephalexin may differ among different individuals. The reason for this individual variation can be other physiological factors and genetic predispositions. 

What to do if Cephalexin makes you pee more?

If you are taking Cephalexin and you observe increased urination after it, then it is advised to consult your doctor. They can perform some tests and do a thorough analysis of your condition to determine the exact cause of this effect. 

This may be occurring due to some underlying medical health conditions or any other factors and not because of Cephalexin. Your doctor will help you diagnose the reason behind this effect. If Cephalexin is found to be the cause of increased urination then your doctor may have to make necessary adjustments in your dosage regimen. Lowering the dose is the first step.  

In my experience

In my opinion, Cephalexin is not yet found to have an effect on its patients that could make you pee more but due to individual sensitivity, it can be observed as a potential side effect in some individuals. This is why it is essential to consult your doctor and get proper medical advice.

A professional and experienced healthcare provider can help you understand your condition better and suggest a safer and more effective treatment strategy.

References