Cephalexin



Biocef®; Keflex®; Panixine DisperDose™[DSC]







Cephalexin

(sef a LEKS in)

U.S. Brand Names
Biocef®; Keflex®; Panixine DisperDose™[DSC]
Canadian Brand Names
Apo-Cephalex®; Keftab®; Novo-Lexin; Nu-Cephalex
Pharmacologic Category
Antibiotic, Cephalosporin (First Generation)
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to cephalexin or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections.
How does it work?
  • Cephalexin works to injure the bacteria and fight the infection.
How is it best taken?
  • To gain the most benefit, do not miss doses.
  • Use prescription as directed, even if feeling better.
  • Take this medicine with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach.
  • A liquid (suspension, children's suspension) is available if you cannot swallow pills. Shake well before use.
  • Those who have feeding tubes can also use the liquid. Flush the feeding tube before and after medicine is given.
  • Tablet for suspension: Mix tablet in 2 teaspoonfuls of water and drink immediately. Rinse glass with more water and drink. Do not chew or swallow whole.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • If you have PKU, talk with healthcare provider. Some products do contain phenylalanine.
  • Avoid alcohol (includes wine, beer, and liquor).
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Nausea or vomiting. Small frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help.
  • Diarrhea. Yogurt, Bifidobacterium bifidum , or Lactobacillus acidophilus may help. These products are available at health food stores or in some pharmacies.
  • For females, vaginal yeast infection. Report itching or discharge.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • If you are diabetic, this medicine may interfere with Clinitest®. Use another method of urine glucose testing like Clinistix® or Tes-Tape®.
  • Take good care of your teeth. See a dentist regularly.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Severe nausea or vomiting.
  • Severe diarrhea.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store capsules and tablets at room temperature.
  • Protect capsules and tablets from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.
  • Store liquid (suspension) in a refrigerator. Throw away any unused portion after 2 weeks.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: