This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Keflex Consumer Information
KEFLEX
Generic Name: cephalexin (sef a LEX in)
Brand Names: Biocef, Keflex, Keftab, Zartan
What is the most important information I should know about cephalexin?
- Take all of the cephalexin that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
- Cephalexin can be taken on an empty stomach or with food or milk if it causes stomach upset.
What is cephalexin?
- Cephalexin is an antibiotic in a class of drugs called cephalosporins. Cephalexin fights bacteria in the body.
- Cephalexin is used to treat many different types of bacterial infections such as bronchitis, tonsillitis, ear infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections.
- Cephalexin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking cephalexin?
- Do not take cephalexin if you have ever had an allergic reaction to another cephalosporin or to a penicillin unless your doctor is aware of the allergy and monitors your therapy.
- Before taking cephalexin, tell your doctor if you have
- kidney disease, or
- a gastrointestinal (digestive) disease such as colitis.
- You may not be able to take cephalexin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have either of the conditions listed above.
- The cephalexin suspensions contain sucrose. Individuals with diabetes may need to be aware of the sucrose contained in these suspensions.
- Cephalexin is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not, however, take cephalexin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
- Cephalexin passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take cephalexin?
- Take this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass of water.
- Cephalexin can be taken on an empty stomach or with food or milk if it causes stomach upset.
- To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of cephalexin with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one. Shake the suspension well before measuring a dose.
- Take cephalexin at evenly spaced intervals to keep a constant level of drug in the body.
- It is important to take cephalexin regularly to get the most benefit.
- Take all of the cephalexin that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
- Store the tablets and capsules at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
- Store the suspension in the refrigerator. Throw away any unused medication after 14 days.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then try to evenly space the rest of the doses for that day until you can return to a normal schedule. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
- Symptoms of a cephalexin overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, seizures, numbness and tingling in the arms or legs, and muscle spasms.
What should I avoid while taking cephalexin?
- There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities during treatment with cephalexin unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.