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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Cephalexin is an antibacterial medication used for the treatment of infections including respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia, and infections of the bones, skin, ears, genital and urinary tract. As a cephalosporin antibiotic, it functions by effectively killing bacterial cells.
Note that cephalexin and other antibiotics are not effective for treating viral infections, such as the common cold or flu. The excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics can increase the likelihood of developing infections that are resistant to antibiotics.
Uses and Dosage
Cephalexin should be administered orally as directed by your physician, usually every 6 to 12 hours, with or without food.
If you are using the liquid suspension, shake the bottle thoroughly prior to each dose and use a specialized measuring device to accurately measure the correct dosage. The dose is determined based on your medical condition and response to treatment, and for children, weight may also be a factor.
To achieve optimal results, take cephalexin at consistent intervals. To facilitate adherence to your dosing schedule, take this medication at the same time each day.
Continue taking this medication until the full prescribed amount has been completed, even if symptoms improve after a few days, as stopping treatment too early may allow the bacteria to persist and potentially result in the reoccurrence of the infection.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- diarrhea
- nausea
- vomiting
- indigestion
- stomach pain
- vaginal itching or discharge
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- severe stomach pain
- diarrhea that is watery or bloody
- unusual tiredness
- feeling light-headed short of breath
- easy bruising, unusual bleeding, purple or red spots under your skin
- a seizure
- pale skin, cold hands and feet
- yellowed skin, dark colored urine
- fever
- weakness
- pain in your side or lower back
- painful urination
Caution
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you may have, including those to cephalexin, penicillins, or other cephalosporins such as cefpodoxime, prior to taking this medication. Inform them of your medical history, including any kidney or gastrointestinal diseases (such as colitis).
- If you have diabetes, note that the liquid form of this medication may contain sugar, so caution should be exercised. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise you on the safe use of this product.
- While using this medication during pregnancy, weigh the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This medication may pass into breast milk.Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Keflex Suspension is available in the following forms and strengths:
- cephalexin suspension:
- 125 mg / 5 mL
- 250 mg / 5 mL
FAQ
How long does it take to feel better on Keflex?
Keflex starts to work right away and becomes the most effective one hour after taking it. That being said, it can take up to 48 hours after taking the drug to start seeing your symptoms improve.
What happens if you take Keflex on an empty stomach?
Although it may be absorbed more quickly if it is taken on an empty stomach, Keflex may be taken with food or on an empty stomach. The overall effect is not changed by taking it with food.
Resources
- https://khealth.com/learn/medication/cephalexin/#:~:text=Cephalexin%20starts%20to%20work%20right,start%20seeing%20your%20symptoms%20improve
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682733.html
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/cephalexin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20073325
- https://www.drugs.com/keflex.html#side-effects
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6859/keflex-oral/details
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549780/
