Common uses

Keflex is cephalosporin antibiotic. It is prescribed for bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, the middle ear, the bones, the skin, and the reproductive and urinary systems. Because it is effective for only certain types of bacterial infections, before beginning treatment your doctor may perform tests to identify the organisms causing the infection.

Before using

If you are allergic to either penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics in any form, consult your doctor before taking Keflex. 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.

Directions

Keflex 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 Keflex at even intervals around the clock as prescribed by your doctor.
If you are taking the liquid form of Keflex, use the specially marked spoon to measure each dose accurately.
Your doctor will only prescribe Keflex to treat a bacterial infection; it will not cure a viral infection, such as the common cold. It's important to take the full dosage schedule of Keflex, even if you're feeling better in a few days. Not completing the full dosage schedule may decrease the drug's effectiveness and increase the chances that the bacteria may become resistant to Keflex and similar antibiotics.
--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.

Cautions

If you have a history of stomach or intestinal disease, especially colitis, check with your doctor before taking Keflex.
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 Keflex 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 Keflex. You may need a reduced dose.
If you are diabetic, it is important to note that Keflex 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 side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
• diarrhea that is watery or bloody;
• seizure (convulsions);
• fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash;
• pale or yellowed skin, dark colored urine, fever, confusion or weakness;
• easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
• confusion, agitation, hallucinations (seeing things that are not there); or
• urinating less than usual or not at all.
Less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:
• mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• dizziness, tired feeling;
• joint pain; or
• vaginal itching or discharge.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

If you take too much

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences.
If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.
• Symptoms of Keflex overdose may include:
Blood in the urine, diarrhea, nausea, upper abdominal pain, vomiting

Additional information

The effects of Keflex during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. Keflex 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.

Drug interactions

If Keflex 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 Keflex with the following:

Certain diarrhea medications such as Lomotil
Oral contraceptives