Indications
Keflex Suspension is a prescription medication used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections, skin infections, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. It is brand name for the antibiotic medication cephalexin, which is available in oral suspension form.
Cephalexin belongs to the class of antibiotics known as cephalosporins. It is an antibiotic medication that works by interfering with the formation of bacterial cell walls, which eventually leads to the death of the bacteria causing the infection.
Use and Dosage
The oral suspension form of cephalexin is usually taken by mouth every 6 to 12 hours, depending on the severity of the infection being treated and the patient's age and weight. Take it orally as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider. Shake the bottle well before use. You can take it with or without food but taking it with food can help to reduce the risk of stomach upset or nausea.
Take cephalexin at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take cephalexin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Keflex Suspension (Cephalexin):
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Vaginal itching or discharge
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Keflex Suspension (Cephalexin):
- Allergic reactions: skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
- Severe diarrhea, fever
- Unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or odor
- Cold hands and feet
- Signs of liver problems like dark urine, feeling tired, not hungry, upset stomach or stomach pain, light-colored stools, throwing up, or yellow skin or eyes.
- Fever, chills, or sore throat; any unexplained bruising or bleeding; or feeling very tired or weak
- Feeling confused
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Severe dizziness
- Severe headache
- Severe joint pain
- Vaginal itching or discharge
- Diarrhea is common with antibiotics
Forms and Strength
Keflex Suspension (Cephalexin) is available in the following forms and strength:
Cephalexin: Suspension
- 125mg/5ml
- 250mg/5ml
Cautions
- The patient should inform their healthcare provider if they have had any previous allergic reactions to antibiotics or any other medications before taking Keflex Suspension. Allergic reactions can be serious and life-threatening in some cases.
- Keflex Suspension is removed from the body by the kidneys, so patients with kidney problems need to be monitored closely and may require a lower dosage or different dosing schedule.
- Some patients may experience diarrhea, abdominal pain, and other gastrointestinal symptoms while taking Keflex Suspension. Let your healthcare provider know if you experience any of these symptoms, as they may require further medical evaluation.
- Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they are taking any other medications, supplements, or herbal products, as these can interact with Keflex Suspension and affect its effectiveness and/or increase the risk of side effects.
- Keflex Suspension should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if necessary and under the direction of a healthcare provider, as it can potentially harm the developing fetus or breastfeeding baby.
- Cephalexin can increase the risk of seizures, particularly in patients with a history of seizure disorders or who are taking medications that lower the seizure threshold. Patients taking Keflex Suspension should be monitored for signs of seizures and advised to avoid activities that could be dangerous if a seizure occurs.
- Keflex Suspension can affect liver function, and patients with liver disease or impaired liver function may require a lower dosage or different dosing schedule.
- Cephalexin can affect blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in patients with a history of bleeding disorders or who are taking medications that affect blood clotting. Patients taking Keflex Suspension should be monitored for signs of bleeding and advised to avoid activities that could increase the risk of bleeding.
- Keflex Suspension may affect blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes, and these patients may need to monitor their blood sugar levels more closely while taking the medication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I miss a dose of Keflex Suspension?
If you miss a dose of Keflex Suspension, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearing the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Can Keflex Suspension be taken on an empty stomach?
Keflex Suspension can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food can help to reduce the risk of stomach upset or nausea.
How long does it take for Keflex Suspension to start working?
The time it takes for Keflex Suspension to start working can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Some patients may start to feel better within a few days, while others may require a longer treatment course.
Can Keflex Suspension be used to treat viral infections such as the common cold or flu?
No, Keflex Suspension is an antibiotic and is only effective against bacterial infections. It should not be used to treat viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/cephalexin/what-is
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/cephalexin-suspension.html
- https://www.rxlist.com/keflex-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-11757/cephalexin-oral/details
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20226-cephalexin-suspension
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682733.html
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=5681d4d2-9b67-4cac-9b94-8368f9978231
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