Cephalexin or Keflex Medication Information (dosing, side effects, patient counseling)

Your Medication Cephalexin

Cephalexin is also known by the brand name: Keflex.

Cephalexin comes in 250, 500 and 750 mg capsules; 125 mg/5 mL and 250 mg/5 mL oral suspension.

Cephalexin is most commonly used for bacterial infections. No matter you’re your doctor has you taking it for, cephalexin is usually taken by mouth with or without food most commonly 3 to 4 times a day. If upset stomach occurs take cephalexin with food. If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you think about it. If it is close to time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses. It is important to take to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if your symptoms disappear.

Some common side effects with cephalexin include upset stomach, and diarrhea.
Some less common side effects with cephalexin include dizziness, tiredness, headache, itching, heartburn and vaginal yeast infection.

While taking Cephalexin, remember it is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have:
• Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, tightness of the chest, etc.)
• An allergy to cephalexin.
• If you are taking probenecid.
• If your symptoms do not get better or if they worsen, call your doctor.

Cephalexin liquid needs to be stored in the refrigerator and shaken well before each dose is given. Use the measuring device received from the pharmacist or doctor. Any liquid remaining after 14 days needs to be thrown away. All other forms of Cephalexin are kept at room temperature, in a dry place.