CEPHALEXIN DESCRIPTION
Cephalexin - Tablet (Generic of Keflex)
Cephalexin is manufactured by Eli Lilly. This medicine is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.
Why is this Cephalexin prescribed?
Cephalexin, Keflex and Keftab are cephalosporin antibiotics. They are prescribed for bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, the middle ear, the bones, the skin, and the reproductive and urinary systems. Because they are effective for only certain types of bacterial infections, before beginning treatment your doctor may perform tests to identify the organisms causing the infection.
Cephalexin is available in capsules and an oral suspension form for use in children. Keftab, available only in tablet form, is prescribed exclusively for adults.
Most important fact about Cephalexin
If you are allergic to either penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics in any form, consult your doctor before taking Cephalexin. 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.
How should you take Cephalexin?
Cephalexin may be taken with or without meals. However, if the drug upsets your stomach, you may want to take it after you have eaten. Take Cephalexin at even intervals around the clock as prescribed by your doctor. If you are taking the liquid form of Cephalexin, use the specially marked spoon to measure each dose accurately. To obtain maximum benefit, it is important that you finish taking all of this medication, even if you are feeling better. --If you miss a dose...Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, and you take 2 doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 5 to 6 hours later. If you take 3 or more doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 2 to 4 hours later, or double the next dose. Then go back to your regular schedule. --Storage instructions...
Store capsules and tablets at room temperature. Store the liquid suspension in a refrigerator; discard any unused medication after 14 days.
What side effects may occur with Cephalexin?
Cephalexin Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Cephalexin.
More common Cephalexin side effects may include:
Diarrhea
Less common or rare Cephalexinside effects may include:
Abdominal pain, agitation, colitis (inflammation of the large intestine), confusion, dizziness, fatigue, fever, genital and rectal itching, hallucinations, headache, hepatitis, hives, indigestion, inflammation of joints, inflammation of the stomach, joint pain, nausea, rash, seizures, severe allergic reaction, skin peeling, skin redness, swelling due to fluid retention, vaginal discharge, vaginal inflammation, vomiting, yellowing of skin and whites of eyes
Why should Cephalexin not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to the cephalosporin group of antibiotics, you should not use this medication. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.
Special warnings about Cephalexin
If you have a history of stomach or intestinal disease, especially colitis, check with your doctor before taking Cephalexin. If you have ever had an allergic reaction, particularly to drugs, be sure to tell your doctor. If diarrhea occurs while taking cephalexin, check with your doctor before taking a remedy. Certain diarrhea medications (for instance, Lomotil) may increase your diarrhea or make it last longer. Prolonged use of Cephalexin may result in an overgrowth of bacteria that do not respond to the medication, causing a secondary infection. Your doctor will monitor your use of this drug on a regular basis. If you have a kidney disorder, check with your doctor before taking Cephalexin. You may need a reduced dose. If you are diabetic, it is important to note that Cephalexin may cause false results in tests for urine sugar. Notify your doctor that you are taking this medication before being tested. Do not change your diet or dosage of diabetes medication without first consulting with your doctor. If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they get worse, notify your doctor immediately.
Do not give this medication to other people or use it for other infections before checking with your doctor.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Cephalexin
If Cephalexin 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 Cephalexin with the following:
Certain diarrhea medications such as Lomotil
Oral contraceptives
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and taking Cephalexin
The effects of Cephalexin during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. Cephalexin appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.
Recommended Cephalexin dosage
ADULTS
Throat, Skin, and Urinary Tract Infections The usual adult dosage is 500 milligrams taken every 12 hours. Cystitis (bladder infection) therapy should be continued for 7 to 14 days. Other Infections The usual recommended dosage is 250 milligrams taken every 6 hours. For more severe infections, larger doses may be needed, as determined by your doctor.
CHILDREN
Cephalexin The usual dose is 25 to 50 milligrams for each 2.2 pounds of body weight per day, divided into smaller doses. 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 infections, the medication should be taken for at least 10 days. Your doctor may double the dose if your child has a severe infection. For middle ear infection, the dose is 75 to 100 milligrams per 2.2 pounds per day, divided into 4 doses. Keftab
Safety and effectiveness have not been established in children.
Cephalexin Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.
Symptoms of Cephalexin overdose may include:
Blood in the urine, diarrhea, nausea, upper abdominal pain, vomiting
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