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Generic Name: Cephalexin
Brand Name: Keftab
(eye soe tret' i noyn)
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Why is cephalexin prescribed?
Cephalexin (Keftab) is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria such as pneumonia and bone, ear, skin, and urinary tract infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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How should cephalexin be used properly?
Keftab (Cephalexin) comes as a capsule, tablet, and liquid to take by mouth. It is usually taken every 6 hours (four times a day) or every 12 hours (twice a day) for 7-10 days. 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.
Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly.
The capsules and tablets should be swallowed whole and taken with a full glass of water.
Continue to take cephalexin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking cephalexin without talking to your doctor.
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What special precautions should I follow when using cephalexin?
Before taking cephalexin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to cephalexin or any other cephalosporin antibiotic such as cefadroxil (Duricef) or cephradine (Velosef), penicillin, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other antibiotics, anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin), probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, colitis, or stomach problems.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking cephalexin, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking cephalexin.
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What special dietary instructions should I follow while taking cephalexin?
Cephalexin may cause an upset stomach. Take cephalexin with food or milk.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of cephalexin?
You should take the missed dose of cephalexin just as soon as you remember to take it. Unless, it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.
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What side effects can cephalexin cause?
Although side effects from cephalexin are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- mild skin rash
- vomiting
- diarrhea
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- painful mouth or throat sores
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- severe skin rash
- vaginal infection
- sore throat
- wheezing
- itching
- hives
» topWhat storage conditions are needed for cephalexin?
Always keep the cephalexin in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Keep the liquid medication in the refrigerator, tightly closed, and throw away any unused medication after 14 days. Remember never to freeze your medicine.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or an cephalexin overdose?
In case of an cephalexin overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
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What other information should I know about cephalexin?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to cephalexin.
If you are diabetic, use Clinistix or TesTape (not Clinitest) to test your urine for sugar while taking this drug.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Your prescription is probably not refillable. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the cephalexin, call your doctor.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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