CEPHALEXIN - ORAL

CEPHALEXIN - ORAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (sef-a-LEX-in)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Keflex

GENERIC NAME(S): cephalexin

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. This medication is known as a cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This medication will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.


How to use CEPHALEXIN - ORAL

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually every 6 to 12 hours with or without food. If you are 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 allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a return of the infection. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or upset stomach may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in oral thrush or a new yeast infection. Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth, a change in vaginal discharge, or other new symptoms. This medication may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition (Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea) due to a resistant bacteria. This condition may occur during treatment or weeks to months after treatment has stopped. Do not use anti-diarrhea or opioid medications if you have any of the following symptoms because these products may make them worse. Tell your doctor right away if you develop: persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, blood/mucus in your stool. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking cephalexin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to penicillins or other cephalosporins (such as cefpodoxime); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, stomach/intestinal disease (such as colitis). The liquid form of this product may contain sugar. Caution is advised if you have diabetes. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely. Cephalexin may cause live bacterial vaccines (such as typhoid vaccine) to not work as well. Do not have any immunizations/vaccinations while using this medication unless your doctor tells you to. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Although most antibiotics are unlikely to affect hormonal birth control such as pills, patch, or ring, a few antibiotics (such as rifampin, rifabutin) can decrease their effectiveness. This could result in pregnancy. If you use hormonal birth control, ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including Coombs' test, certain urine glucose tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe/persistent vomiting, blood in the urine, seizures.

Images

CEPHALEXIN 250 MG CAPSULE

color
dark green
shape
oblong
imprint
220, 220
CEPHALEXIN 250 MG CAPSULE

color
dark green
shape
oblong
imprint
220, 220
CEPHALEXIN 250 MG CAPSULE

color
dark green
shape
oblong
imprint
220, 220
CEPHALEXIN 500 MG CAPSULE

color
light green
shape
oblong
imprint
219, 219
CEPHALEXIN 500 MG CAPSULE

color
light green
shape
oblong
imprint
219, 219
CEPHALEXIN 500 MG CAPSULE

color
light green
shape
oblong
imprint
219, 219
CEPHALEXIN 500 MG CAPSULE

color
light green
shape
oblong
imprint
219, 219
CEPHALEXIN 500 MG CAPSULE

color
light green
shape
oblong
imprint
219, 219
CEPHALEXIN 500 MG CAPSULE

color
light green
shape
oblong
imprint
219, 219

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Faq for CEPHALEXIN - ORAL

Cephalexin is an antibiotic medication used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and bone infections.

Cephalexin works by stopping the growth of bacteria and killing them. It does this by interfering with the formation of the bacterial cell wall, which is essential for their survival.

Common side effects of cephalexin may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and skin rash. It is important to inform your doctor if these side effects become severe or persistent.

Cephalexin is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, but it is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication. As for breastfeeding, cephalexin can pass into breast milk, so it's important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.

Cephalexin is usually taken by mouth with or without food, as directed by your doctor. It is important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully cleared.

Cephalexin may interact with other medications, including certain blood thinners, oral contraceptives, and medications that affect the kidneys. Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking cephalexin since it can increase the risk of certain side effects, such as stomach upset and dizziness. It is best to consult with your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on this medication.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

The time it takes for cephalexin to work can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Typically, improvement in symptoms is seen within a few days. However, it is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.