The combination of cefalexin and alcohol shouldn't be more organ-damaging than alcohol alone. Alcohol does reduce the effectiveness of cefalexin though. Alcohol does reduce the effectiveness of cefalexin though. Many patients can safely combine cephalexin and alcohol, but drinking can increase the risk of adverse drug reactions. This antibiotic medication can be recommended to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Cephalexin and alcohol Alcohol doesn’t reduce the effectiveness of cephalexin. Information included on the package insert for cephalexin doesn’t state that alcohol interacts with this drug. Trustworthy answers from Doctors when you need them: Dr. Fowler remarks on whether or not you can drink alcohol while taking the antibiotic cephalexin. Using Alcohol While On Keflex (cephalexin) Excessive alcohol use can lead to liver damage and lowered immune function. Additionally, it can lead to other major health problems like uncontrolled blood sugars, jaundice, kidney failure, cognitive problems, cardiovascular problems, etc. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin (SEF a low spor in) antibiotic. It works by fighting bacteria in your body. Cephalexin is used to treat infections caused by bacteria, including upper respiratory infections, ear infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections and bone infections. Cephalexin (Keflex, Keftabs) is an an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the sinuses, tooth, urinary tract, and throat. Common side effects of Keflex include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, headaches, and vaginitis. Dosage of cephalexin depends on the type of infection. It is usually not recomended to drink alcohol while taking antibiotics, it could enhance the process of the side effects adversely. Please take care, be safe & well, best wishes! Find patient medical information for Cephalexin Oral on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings and user ratings. Find patient medical information for Keflex Oral on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings and user ratings.