Cephalexin Monohydrate and drugs

I had a skin infection on my lower legs and was prescribed Cephalexin Monohydrate. I took it for 6 days, 4x per day, then stopped. I was supposed to continue on 2x per day for the next week.
I started itching at the top half of my buttocks and it quickly spread all over my back, chest, shoulders, arms and onto my scalp. Small lumps or hives and red blotchy skin nearly all over my old body. The itching was driving me crazy. I didn't know where to scratch or rub next.
My doctor couldn't see me for another week so I went to see another doctor who prescribed Phenergan (promethazine hydrochloride) tablets and Celestone M (betamethasone) cream.
Relief came within 24 hrs, I went through 4 days of hell and while still itchy on the 5th day, it was getting better. I also used ionil T ( a medicated shampoo ) for my scalp.
I have never been allergic to any drugs before this monster
This antibiotic should come with a warning

I have taken this medication on and off for many years. I think any antibiotic class will affect people differently. I cannot take penicillins or sulphur drugs anymore, after years of taking them. Penicillin landed me in the hosp with anaphylactic shock. Cephalexin (one of the cephalosporins) is the only class of antibiotics I can take.

Right now, I have a tooth abscess that has been hurting me for 3 days straight. This is not the most effective a/b for dental, I don't think, since it doesn't seem to be doing much good.

I don't have side effects from this medication as long as I take it with food. However, that can be lots of medications - they can be hard on the tummy lining, so a little food really helps. I don't take anything dairy while I am on this medication either.

I saw someone posted about problems, but were taking a pill every hour - I can't imagine any doctor prescribing that high of a dose! So, not sure if you were trying to create a side effect, or what, but I hope you cut back. I've taken this for years, and can't see where more than 2,000 mg a DAY would be safe to take.

Always talk to your doctor if you have anything out of the normal for you when taking ANY medication. Some of the side effects could be from your illness, not your medication.

Meanwhile, I hope this one stays around forever, because it is all I can take!