Keflex: Overview
Keflex (cephalexin) is an antibiotic in the cephalosporin class. It fights bacteria in the body and is prescribed to treat bacterial infections such as upper respiratory infections, ear infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections, and bone infections. Keflex is suitable for adults and children over one year of age and is available as a syrup (Keflex syrup) or tablets (Keflex 100 mg).
Keflex Uses
Keflex treats a wide range of bacterial infections by preventing bacterial growth. It is ineffective against viral infections (like the common cold or flu). Misusing antibiotics can reduce their effectiveness.
How to Use Keflex
- Administration: Take orally, with or without food, every 6 to 12 hours.
- Suspension: Shake well before each dose and use a measuring device to ensure the correct dose. Do not use a regular spoon.
- Dosage: Determined by medical condition and response to treatment. For children, the dosage is weight-based.
For the best results, take this antibiotic at regular intervals and complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms disappear. Stopping too soon may cause the infection to return.
Keflex Side Effects
Common side effects include:
- Abdominal or stomach pain
- Blistering, peeling of the skin
- Chills, cough
- Dark urine, diarrhea
- Dizziness, fever, tiredness, weakness
- Headache, itching, rash
- Joint or muscle pain
- Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting
Precautions
- Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to cephalexin, penicillins, or other cephalosporins.
- Medical History: Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease or stomach/intestinal disease (like colitis).
- Diabetes: The liquid form may contain sugar; consult your doctor or pharmacist.
- Pregnancy: Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before taking during pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding: This medication may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Interactions
- Drug Interactions: These can affect how medications work or increase side effects. Keep a list of all products you use and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
- Laboratory Tests: May interfere with certain tests, like the Coombs’ test and some urine glucose tests.
Overdose
If an overdose is suspected, seek medical advice immediately. Never take more than prescribed.
Missed Dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Storage
Store away from heat, air, and light to prevent damage. Keep out of reach of children.
Keflex vs. Amoxicillin
| Keflex | Amoxicillin |
|---|---|
| Antibiotic class: Cephalosporin | Antibiotic class: Penicillin-like antibiotics |
| Treats a wide range of bacterial infections | Treats middle ear infections, strep throat, pneumonia, skin infections, and UTIs |
| Works by fighting bacteria in the body | Works by stopping the growth of bacteria in the body |
