CEPHALEXIN

What is the brand name for this medicine?
Keflex.

What is this medicine used for?
This medicine is indicated for patients who have infections of the chest, skin, joints, or bladder.

How is this medicine used?
It is important that you take this medication at regular intervals and take it until it is all gone. This medicine may be taken with or without food.

What if I miss a dose?
Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule.

How is this medicine stored?
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Keep away from heat and light.

Are there precautions with this medicine?
If you have ever experienced an allergic reaction to penicillins or cephalosporins, talk to your doctor before taking this medication. You should use this medicine with caution if you have severe kidney disease.

Are there side effects?
The most common side effect is diarrhea.  Usually this medicine is well tollerated, but if you experience prolonged diarrhea, vaginitis, or experience side effects that are bothersome to you, notify your doctor or pharmacist.

Does this medicine interact with other drugs?
Yes, but talk to your pharmacist if you are taking birth control pills because this medication may temporarily reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.

Can I take this medicine if I’m pregnant or breast-feeding?
If you suspect that you may be pregnant, talk to you doctor.  For nursing mothers, this medication is excreted in breast milk and may cause your infant to develop diarrhea, yeast infection (candidiasis), or an allergic reaction.   Use caution and talk with your pediatrician.

General Information:
Antibiotics such as cephalexin may decrease the amount of “good” bacteria in your intestines needed for normal digestion. A supplement called Probiotic may be recommended to replace the “good” bacteria when you are taking this medication. Talk to your pharmacist for for information.