Keflex (Cephalexin)

Do's  

• Take Keflex by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually every 6 to 12 hours with or without food.  
• Shake the bottle well before each dose if using the suspension.   
• Measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon.  
• Take Keflex at evenly spaced times to maximize its effectiveness.  
• Take this medication at the same time(s) every day to help you remember.  
• Continue taking Keflex until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days.  
• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as directed by your healthcare provider. 

Don'ts 

• Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.   
• Do not stop the medication too early, as it may result in a return of the infection.    

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dose is also based on weight.    

Gastrointestinal Effects:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dyspepsia
• Gastritis
• Abdominal pain
• Anal pruritus
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea/colitis/pseudomembranous colitis
• Colitis

Common Side Effects:

• Indigestion
• Stomach pain
• Vaginal itching or discharge
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

Serious Side Effects:

• Easy bruising, unusual bleeding, purple or red spots under the skin
• Seizures
• Pale skin, cold hands and feet
• Yellowed skin, dark-colored urine
• Fever, weakness
• Pain in the side or lower back, painful urination
• Rash
• Itching
• Hives
• Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, and eyes

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Keflex, seek medical advice promptly.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized information and guidance regarding the potential side effects of Keflex.

Allergic reactions, such as rash, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylaxis, erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, or toxic epidermal necrolysis, have been reported with the use of Keflex. Patients with a history of hypersensitivity reactions to cephalexin, cephalosporins, penicillins, or other drugs should be carefully evaluated before initiating therapy with Keflex. Cross-hypersensitivity among beta-lactam antibacterial drugs may occur in some patients with a history of penicillin allergy.

Use of Keflex may result in Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Patients should be monitored for this potential adverse effect.

Dose adjustments are recommended for patients with renal impairment. The dosage should be carefully adjusted based on the patient's renal function to avoid potential complications.

Keflex is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to cephalexin or other members of the cephalosporin class of antibacterial drugs.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they have kidney disease, liver disease, a stomach or intestinal disorder such as colitis, or diabetes before using Keflex.

Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to thoroughly discuss any potential risks or concerns before using Keflex.

Take Keflex by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually every 6 to 12 hours with or without food.

If using the suspension, shake the bottle well before each dose. Measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dose is also based on weight.

For the best effect, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, take this medication at the same time(s) every day.

Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as directed by your healthcare provider.