Keflex

Keflex is the brand name for a medication called Cephalexin. It is an antibiotic that belongs to the class of drugs known as cephalosporins. Cephalexin is commonly used to treat various bacterial infections.

Antibiotic is effective against a wide range of bacteria, including respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, bone and joint infections, and certain types of ear infections.

This medication is available in the form of capsules or oral suspension and is typically taken orally.

Cephalexin works by interfering with the cell wall synthesis of bacteria, which is essential for their growth and survival. By inhibiting this process, cephalexin helps to eliminate the bacteria and clear the infection.

Chemical composition

Keflex are a semisynthetic antibacterial medication that is expressed as 7-(D-alpha-Amino-alpha-phenylacetamido)-3-methyl-3-cephem-4carboxylic acid monohydrate. Its molecular weight is 365.42 and its prime ingredient is the cephalexin monohydrate. Сapsules also contain the following ingredients:

• carboxymethylcelluslose sodium.
• Dimethicone.
• Gelatin.
• Magnesium stearate.
• Titanium dioxide.
• Microcrystalline cellulose.

How to use Keflex?

Сapsules are orally administered. It´s a general antibiotic that is taken as most other antibiotics are taken. Administering depends on the medical condition of the patient and will differ according to the doctor´s prescription. Generally two to four times with or without food with six to twelve hours gap is recommend before intake.

Suspensions are shaken well before use carefully taken to prevent an overdose. Household spoons are not recommended since they will result in wrong measurements. Irregular doses to is invisible as that can result in bacterial growth again. However, like all other medications, certain allergies and precautions need to be considered as well.

Dosage

For most common bacterial infections, the usual adult dosage of Keflex is 250 to 500 milligrams (mg) taken orally every 6 hours, or 1,000 mg taken orally every 12 hours. In some cases, the dosage may be higher for more severe infections. The duration of treatment typically ranges from 7 to 14 days, but this can vary depending on the infection and the individual's response to the medication.

For children, the dosage of Keflex is usually based on their body weight. The typical recommended dose is 25 to 50 mg per kilogram (kg) of body weight per day, divided into 4 doses.

How to Take

Here are some general instructions on how to take Keflex:

1. Take the medication orally: Medicine is typically available in capsule or tablet form. Swallow the capsule or tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break capsules.
2. Take with or without food: Keflex can be taken with or without food. However, if you experience stomach upset, taking it with food may help reduce any potential discomfort.
3. Stick to the prescribed dosage: Do not take more or less than the recommended dosage, and do not stop taking it before completing the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better. Stopping early can lead to the return of the infection or the development of antibiotic resistance.
4. Maintain a regular schedule: Try to take Keflex at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day to ensure a consistent level of the medication in your system. This helps maximize its effectiveness.
5. Complete the full course of treatment: Even if your symptoms improve before you finish the prescribed duration, it's essential to continue taking this drug until you have completed the full course of treatment. This helps ensure that the infection is completely eradicated.
6. Store properly: Store Keflex at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Follow any specific storage instructions provided with the medication.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Keflex may include:

1. Gastrointestinal issues: The most common side effects of Keflex are related to the digestive system. These can include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or discomfort, and indigestion.
2. Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to Keflex. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice symptoms such as hives, rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
3. Skin reactions: Medicine may occasionally cause skin reactions such as rash or itching.
4. Vaginal yeast infection: Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the body and lead to the overgrowth of yeast, resulting in a vaginal yeast infection. Symptoms may include itching, unusual discharge, or discomfort in the vaginal area.
5. Other side effects: Less commonly, Keflex may cause headache, dizziness, fatigue, joint pain, and changes in taste or smell.

Allergies and precautions

Before consuming keflex medication, consult the doctor if you have allergies towards this medication or towards penicillin and cephalosporins. This product might cause allergic reactions based upon allergic problems.

Keflex also causes side effects that we discuss below so talk to your doctor immediately if these are observed while taking in the medication. Drug has sugar content in it so diabetics need to be consulted on using this product comfortably. Pregnant women too might develop complications and allergies following its intake, so such women too need to consult on the possible complications that might develop before consuming the capsule.

Interactions

Here are some notable interactions to be aware of:

1. Medications that interact with Keflex: Some medications may interact with Cephalexin and increase the risk of side effects or reduce its effectiveness. These include medications that affect the kidneys, such as probenecid, as well as certain blood thinners like Warfarin.
2. Oral contraceptives: Keflex may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives (birth control pills). It is recommended to use an additional form of contraception, such as condoms, while taking Keflex and for a short period afterward.
3. Diuretics: Concurrent use of Cephalexin and diuretics (water pills) may increase the risk of kidney problems. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be necessary if you are taking both medications.
4. Probenecid: Probenecid can increase the levels of Keflex in the body, potentially leading to an increased risk of side effects.
5. Methotrexate: There have been reports of an increased risk of methotrexate toxicity when used with Keflex. Close monitoring of methotrexate levels and potential adjustments in dosage may be necessary.
6. Alcohol: While there is no direct interaction between Keflex and alcohol, it is generally advisable to avoid consuming alcohol when taking any medication, as it can increase the risk of side effects and may impair your body's ability to fight off infections.

Warnings

Here are some important warnings associated with Keflex:

1. Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions to Cephalexin can range from mild skin rashes to severe reactions that require immediate medical attention. Seek emergency medical help if you experience symptoms such as hives, rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
2. Antibiotic-associated diarrhea: Taking Keflex can sometimes lead to antibiotic-associated diarrhea, which may range from mild to severe.
3. Kidney function: Keflex is primarily eliminated through the kidneys.
4. Drug resistance: Misuse or overuse of antibiotics can contribute to the development of drug-resistant bacteria. It's crucial to take Keflex only as prescribed and complete the full course of treatment to help prevent the emergence of antibiotic-resistant infections.

Keflex and Alcohol

Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication and may increase the risk of certain side effects.

Here's why it is recommended to avoid alcohol while on Keflex:

1. Reduced effectiveness: Alcohol can potentially decrease the effectiveness of antibiotics. This can diminish the ability of the medication to combat the bacterial infection for which it is prescribed.
2. Increased side effects: Both alcohol and Cephalexin can individually cause certain side effects. When consumed together, the risk of experiencing side effects may be amplified. These side effects can include dizziness, drowsiness, gastrointestinal issues (such as stomach upset or nausea), and an increased risk of liver toxicity.
3. Overburdened liver: Both Keflex and alcohol are processed by the liver. When alcohol and medications are metabolized in the liver simultaneously, it can strain the liver and potentially lead to liver damage or other complications.
4. Impaired judgment and coordination: Both alcohol and Keflex can individually impair judgment and coordination. Consuming alcohol while taking Keflex can exacerbate these effects, potentially increasing the risk of accidents or other adverse events.

Storage

Keflex capsules are to be kept at room temperature, away from moisture and direct heat. If wrapper gets opened, store the capsules immediately in a tight container. Keep away from children.

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