Keflex

Generic name: Cephalexin hydrochloride

What is Keflex?

Keflex is an antibiotic used to treat infections of the respiratory tract, the middle ear, the bones, the skin, and the reproductive and urinary systems.

What is the most important information I should know about Keflex?

If you are allergic to either penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics in any form, consult your doctor before taking Keflex. If there is a possibility that you are allergic to both types of medication and if a reaction occurs, it could be extremely severe. If you take the drug and feel signs of a reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

Your doctor will only prescribe Keflex to treat a bacterial infection. Keflex will not cure a viral infection such as the common cold. It is important to take the full dosage schedule of Keflex, even if you're feeling better in a few days. Not completing the full dosage schedule may decrease the drug's effectiveness and increase the chances that the bacteria may become resistant to Keflex and similar antibiotics.

Who should not take Keflex?

Do not take Keflex if you are allergic to this drug or any cephalosporins.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Keflex?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Keflex. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver disease, are taking a blood thinner, or have a history of stomach or intestinal disease such as inflammation of the large intestine.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Throat, Skin, and Urinary Tract Infections

Adults: The usual dose is 500 milligrams (mg) every 12 hours. Urinary tract infections should be treated for 7 to 14 days. If the infection is more severe, you may need larger doses.

Other Infections

Adults: The usual dose is 250 mg every 6 hours.

The usual dose for children under 15 years of age is 25 to 50 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight, divided into smaller doses.

Middle Ear Infections

Children: For middle ear infections, the dose is 75 to 100 mg per 2.2 pounds per day, divided into 4 doses.

Strep Throat and Skin Infections

Children: For strep throat in children over 1 year of age and for skin infections, the dose may be divided into 2 doses taken every 12 hours. For strep throat infections, Keflex should be taken for at least 10 days. Your doctor may double the dose if your child has a severe infection.

How should I take Keflex?

Keflex can be taken with or without food. However, if the drug upsets your stomach, you may want to take it after you have eaten.

Take Keflex at even intervals around the clock as prescribed by your doctor.

If you are taking the liquid form of Keflex, use the specially marked spoon to measure each dose accurately.

What should I avoid while taking Keflex?

Do not give Keflex to other people and do not use it for other infections.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Keflex?

If Keflex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Keflex with the following: antidiarrhea medications such as Imodium, metformin, oral contraceptives, and probenecid.

What are the possible side effects of Keflex?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: diarrhea, allergic reactions, abdominal pain

Can I receive Keflex if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Keflex during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Use caution when taking Keflex while breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Keflex?

If you take this medication twice a day and it is within 6 hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled. However, if you have more than 6 hours until your next dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember and continue with your normal dosing schedule. If you take 3 or more doses a day, take the missed dose only if there are greater than 4 hours until your next dose. If not, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosing schedule. If you miss or skip a dose, do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Keflex?

Store the capsules and tablets at room temperature. Store the liquid suspension in a refrigerator and throw out any unused medication after 14 days.