cephalexin

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n.

A semisynthetic analogue of cephalosporin, C₁₆H₁₇N₃O₄S, used especially in the treatment of respiratory and urinary tract infections.

[Blend of CEPHAL(OSPOR)IN and ex- (probably alteration of HEX(A)–, from the six carbon atoms comprising the phenyl group that distinguishes it from cephalosporin).]

n

trade names: Ceporex, Keftab, Keflex; drug class: firstgeneration cephalosporin; action: inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis, rendering cell wall osmotically unstable; uses: eradication of gram-negative bacilli from the upper and lower respiratory tracts, urinary tract, and skin; treatment of bone infections and otitis media.

Brand names: Bio-Cef™, Keflex®, Keflex® Capsule, Keftab®, Panixine DisperDose™

Chemical formula:

Drug Forms:
• Cephalexin Monohydrate Oral suspension (below)
• Cephalexin Monohydrate Oral capsule
• Cephalexin Hydrochloride Oral tablet

Español:
• Cefalexina Monohidrato, Suspensión oral
• Cefalexina Monohidrato, Cápsula oral
• Cefalexina Clorhidrato, Tableta oral

Cephalexin Monohydrate Oral suspension

What is this medicine?

CEPHALEXIN is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It kills or stops the growth of some bacteria. This medicine is used to treat many kinds of infections. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• kidney disease
• stomach or intestine problems, especially colitis
• an unusual or allergic reaction to cephalexin, other cephalosporins, penicillins, other antibiotics, medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Shake well before using. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your medicine. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. You can take this medicine with food or on an empty stomach. If the medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think your condition is better.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• probenecid
• some other antibiotics

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not begin to improve in a few days.

Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your doctor if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if it is severe and watery.

If you have diabetes, you may get a false-positive result for sugar in your urine. Check with your doctor or health care professional.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• breathing problems
• pain or difficulty passing urine
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• severe or watery diarrhea
• unusually weak or tired
• yellowing of the eyes, skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• gas or heartburn
• genital or anal irritation
• headache
• joint or muscle pain
• nausea, vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

After this medicine is mixed by your pharmacist, store it in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after 14 days.

Last updated: 12/5/2003 3:48:00 PM

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

A first generation cephalosporin antibiotic which is effective following oral administration. It is widely used in bacterial infections of the skin in dogs and cats.

cephalexin	cephalexin 250 mg cap