Description
Keflex is an antibiotic used to treat certain infections, including:
- Respiratory tract infections
- Ear infections
- Skin infections
- Bone infections
- Genitourinary tract infections
Keflex is available in 250 mg, 500 mg, and 750 mg oral capsules. The generic name for Keflex is cephalexin.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C16H17N3O4S |
License |
US FDA, US DailyMed |
Bioavailability |
Well absorbed |
Legal status |
Rx-Only |
Chemical Name |
Cefalexin |
Elimination half-life |
0.6–1.2 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
250mg, 500mg |
Pregnancy |
Safe |
Brands |
Keflex |
Protein binding |
15% |
PubChem CID |
2666 |
MedlinePlus |
a682733 |
ChEBI |
3534 |
ATC code |
J01DB01 |
DrugBank |
DB00567 |
KEGG |
D00263 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth |
Directions
Take the medication as prescribed by your doctor. You should finish your treatment course, even if you start to feel better. If you have questions or concerns, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Each patient's dose depends on age and the type of infection being treated. The duration of treatment is usually 7 to 14 days, but it depends on the type of infection being treated and its severity. The dose may need to be adjusted in patients with kidney problems.
Ingredients
Cephalexin, a cephalosporin, is the active ingredient in Keflex.
Contraindications
Patients who are allergic to Keflex or any of the other antibiotics in its class should not take the medication.
Cautions
- Before you begin treatment with Keflex, you should tell your doctor about:
- All the medications you take
- Your allergies
- Your health history and current health problems
- Your pregnancy or breastfeeding status
- Keflex can cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. You should seek emergency care immediately if you have trouble breathing, a rash, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat.
- Keflex can cause Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.
- Anemia can occur during treatment with cephalosporins.
- Seizures can occur with cephalosporins, especially in patients with kidney problems.
- Cephalosporins can cause prolonged prothrombin time, especially in patients with kidney or liver problems, malnutrition, or in patients receiving a protracted course of antibiotics and in patients taking anticoagulants.
- Long-term use of Keflex can cause an overgrowth of bacteria that has become resistant to the antibiotic.
Side Effects
Keflex can cause side effects, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and stomach pain. However, other side effects can occur, and it's recommended that you call your doctor if you develop side effects that bother you or won't go away.
Reference:
Keflex cephalexin capsules. Locust Valley, NY: Fera Pharmaceuticals, LLC; 2018.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 9533