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Cephalexin

 

Cephalexin (generic Keflex, Keftab) Review

brand names: Biocef, Keflex, Keftab
generic name: Cephalexin

Cephalexin Capsules is used for:

Treating certain bacterial infections.

Cephalexin Capsules is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by interfering with the bacteria's cell wall formation. This weakens the cell wall, causing it to rupture, and kills the bacteria.

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

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•bleeding problems
•diarrhea
•kidney disease
•stomach or intestinal problems (especially colitis)
•other chronic illness
•an unusual or allergic reaction to Cephalexin (Keflex), other foods, penicillamine, penicillin, other cephalosporin antibiotics, dyes or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Throat, Skin, and Urinary Tract Infections

The usual adult dosage is 500 milligrams taken every 12 hours. Cystitis (bladder infection) therapy should be continued for 7 to 14 days.

Keftab

Safety and effectiveness have not been established in children.

Other Infections

The usual recommended dosage is 250 milligrams taken every 6 hours. For more severe infections, larger doses may be needed, as determined by your doctor.

For strep throat in children over 1 year of age and for skin infections, the dose may be divided into 2 doses taken every 12 hours. For strep infections, the medication should be taken for at least 10 days. Your doctor may double the dose if your child has a severe infection.

For middle ear infection, the dose is 75 to 100 milligrams per 2.2 pounds per day, divided into 4 doses.

CHILDREN UNDER 15 YEARS OLD

Keflex

The usual dose is 25 to 50 milligrams for each 2.2 pounds of body weight per day, divided into smaller doses.

Why should Cephalexin (Keflex) hydrochloride not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to the cephalosporin group of antibiotics, you should not use Cephalexin (Keflex) hydrochloride. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

What are Cephalexin (Keflex) tablets or capsules?

Cephalexin (Keflex®, Keftab®) is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It treats many kinds of infections including those of the skin, ears, sinuses, bone, respiratory tract, and urinary tract. Generic Cephalexin (Keftab) tablets and capsules are available.

Why is Keflex prescribed?

Keflex and Keftab are cephalosporin antibiotics. They are prescribed for bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, the skin, the bones, the middle ear, and the reproductive and urinary systems. Because they are effective for only certain types of bacterial infections, before beginning treatment your doctor may perform tests to identify the organisms causing the infection.

Keflex is available in capsules and an oral suspension form for use in children. Keftab, available only in tablet form, is prescribed exclusively for adults.