Generic Name: cephalexin

What is the most important information I should know about cephalexin?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to cephalexin, or to similar antibiotics, such as Ceclor, Ceftin, Cefzil, Duricef, Fortaz, Omnicef, Spectracef, Suprax, and others. Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Cephalexin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

What is cephalexin?

Cephalexin is in a group of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics. Cephalexin fights bacteria in the body.

Cephalexin is used to treat infections caused by bacteria, including upper respiratory infections, ear infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections.

Cephalexin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking cephalexin?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to cephalexin, or to other cephalosporin antibiotics, such as:

• cefaclor (Ceclor);

• cefadroxil (Duricef);

• cefdinir (Omnicef);

• cefditoren (Spectracef);

• cefixime (Suprax);

• cefprozil (Cefzil);

• ceftazidime (Fortaz); or

• cefuroxime (Ceftin).

Before using this cephalexin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs (especially penicillins), or if you have:

• kidney disease;

• liver disease;

• a stomach or intestinal disorder such as colitis;

• diabetes; or

• if you are malnourished.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use cephalexin, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

The oral suspension (liquid) form of cephalexin may contain sugar. This may affect you if you have diabetes.

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Cephalexin can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take cephalexin?

Take the medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions on your prescription label.

Take cephalexin with a full glass of water.

Measure the liquid form of cephalexin with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Cephalexin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

This medication can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using cephalexin.

Store the tablets and capsules at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Store the liquid medicine in the refrigerator. Throw away any unused medication after 14 days.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of a cephalexin overdose may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, and blood in your urine.