Cephalexin (also called Cefalexin) is a drug that is a member of the cephalosporin class of antibiotics. It is one of the most widely prescribed antibiotics, often used for the treatment of superficial infections that result as complications of minor wounds or lacerations.

It is sold generically or under the brand name Keflex.

People who are allergic to antibiotics from the Penicillin family, have a small chance of having an allergic reaction to Cephalexin.

Possible side effects include fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing are all signs of an allergic reaction.

Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria such as pneumonia and bone, ear, skin, and urinary tract infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. If you are diabetic, use Clinistix or TesTape (not Clinitest) to test your urine for sugar while taking this drug. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the cephalexin, call your doctor.

Cephalexin comes as a capsule, tablet, and liquid to take by mouth. It is usually taken every 6 hours (four times a day) or every 12 hours (twice a day) for 7-10 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take cephalexin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly. The capsules and tablets should be swallowed whole and taken with a full glass of water. Continue to take cephalexin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking cephalexin without talking to your doctor.

Precautions

Before taking cephalexin:

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to cephalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotic such as cefadroxil (Duricef) or cephradine (Velosef), penicillin, or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other antibiotics, anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin), probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, colitis, or stomach problems.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking cephalexin, call your doctor.

If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking cephalexin.

Dietary Restrictions

Cephalexin may cause an upset stomach. Take cephalexin with food or milk.

Dosage

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Side Effects

Although side effects from cephalexin are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• upset stomach
• diarrhea
• vomiting
• mild skin rash

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• severe skin rash
• itching
• hives
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• wheezing
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• sore throat
• painful mouth or throat sores
• oral or vaginal yeast infection

Storage Conditions

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store the capsules and tablets at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Keep liquid medicine in the refrigerator, tightly closed, and throw away any unused medication after 14 days. Do not freeze. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

Brand Names

• Biocef
• Keflex
• Keftab

Sources: FDA Drug Information PDF and Pharmacy Drug Information Insert.