Keflex Suspension (Cephalexin)

Do’s

• Take Cephalexin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically every 6 to 12 hours.
• Take it with or without food.
• Shake the liquid suspension well before each dose and measure it carefully with the provided measuring device (not a household spoon).
• Take Cephalexin for the entire prescribed duration, even if you feel better after a few days. Stopping it early can lead to the infection returning.
• Take Cephalexin at evenly spaced times throughout the day to maintain a consistent level of medication in your body. This will help maximize its effectiveness.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or worsens after taking Cephalexin.

Don'ts

• Don't take more or less Cephalexin than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't skip or stop taking Cephalexin without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't use a household spoon to measure the liquid suspension.
• Don't take Cephalexin for a longer duration than prescribed.

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dyspepsia (indigestion)
• Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
• Severe skin reactions, including blistering, peeling, or a painful rash
• Joint pain or swelling
• Sores in the mouth or on the skin
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping
• Blood or mucus in the stool
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
• Severe diarrhea that doesn't stop
• Difficulty breathing or severe dizziness

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Keflex suspension,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your healthcare provider if you are allergic to cephalexin, penicillin, other cephalosporin antibiotics, or any other medications.

Inform your healthcare provider about any history of kidney disease or stomach/intestinal problems like colitis before taking cephalexin.

The liquid form of cephalexin may contain sugar, so caution is advised if you have diabetes. Discuss safe use with your healthcare provider.

Cephalexin may interfere with the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines. Tell your healthcare provider you are taking cephalexin before getting any vaccinations.

Before having surgery, tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including cephalexin.

Cephalexin should only be used during pregnancy when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Cephalexin passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while taking this medication.