Phexin

What is Cephalexin?

Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic drug that is prescribed for the treatment of various bacterial infections including upper respiratory infections, ear infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections. It is available as Keflex, Phexin (GSK) and a host of other trade names.

Important Information about Cephalexin

Do not take Cephalexin if you are allergic to it or to other cephalosporin antibiotics such as cefadroxil, cefaclor, cefdinir, cefditoren, cefixime, cefprozil, ceftazidime, or cefuroxime.

Prior to taking Cephalexin, let your doctor known if you have or had a history of any of these conditions: liver or kidney disease, a stomach or intestinal disorder such as colitis, diabetes, or if you are malnourished.

Cephalexin is an FDA pregnancy category B drug meaning that it is not expected to harm an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. However, it is advised that you take this medicine with proper medical advice if you are a pregnant or a breast feeding woman.

Cephalexin like all antibiotics should be taken for the full prescribed period even if the symptoms have disappeared. Symptoms usually go away before your body is free from infectious agents. Leaving the medication before the prescribed period can be harmful and can cause a drug resistant infection later on that cannot be treated with common antibiotic medications.

Before taking Cephalexin

Cephalexin is a prescription-only drug meaning that it is only available with a doctor's prescription. Consult your doctor before taking Cephalexin as all antibiotic medications are strictly to be taken with a doctor's prescription. Let him or her know if you have or ever had any of the following conditions: severe liver disease, diarrhea with a fever, or watery or bloody diarrhea.

How should I take Cephalexin?

Take Cephalexin (Keflex, Phexin) strictly according to your doctor's directions or according to the instructions on the medication label. Do not alter the dosage unless your doctor advises you to do so. Also, do not take this medication after the prescribed period is over. All medications come with a patient leaflet. Refer the instructions in them for detailed information on that particular medication. Cephalexin can be taken with or without food. Always store this medicine in a cool and dry place.

What if I miss a dose?

Medications work properly if taken on schedule as prescribed. Missing even a single dose of medication may cause your condition to deteriorate. If you miss a dose of Cephalexin, take it as soon as you remember it. However, forget about the missed dose if the time for the next scheduled dose is near and continue with your original dosing schedule.

What if I overdose?

In case of an overdose of Cephalexin, get emergency medical attention or call the Doctor immediately.

Things and Activities to avoid while taking Cephalexin

Cephalexin being an antibiotic medication can cause diarrhea. Do not take any type of diarrhea medications without consulting your doctor.

Cephalexin Side Effects

Some of the side effects of Cephalexin are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, joint paint, vaginal itching or discharge. These effects are non serious

and should go away after some time. The details provided here are limited and non exhaustive. You may experience some side effects which have no reference over here. If you feel that the effects are serious, do not hesitate to seek emergency medical assistance. 

Cephalexin Dosing Information

Cephalexin dosage may depend on a range of factors like age, sex, drug allergies, or seriousness of the condition among several other factors. Your dosage will be determined by your doctor after examining you properly. Remember to follow your doctor's advice properly for best results.

Interaction with other drugs

Other drugs may interact with Cephalexin. Let your doctor know in advance if you use any other drugs or related products, especially blood thinner like warfarin, metformin, and probenecid. However, these are not the only possible interacting drugs. Remember to follow the directions of your doctor regarding any medications. Do not start a new medication without your doctor's advice.