Cephalexin (Keflex)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Cephalexin is an antibiotic which is used to treat mild to moderate infections due to susceptible organisms. Among those are: Staphlococus, Streptococcus, E.coli, Haemophilis, Klensiella, and Proteus mirabilis. It acts by inhibiting the ability of bacteria to form new cell walls.
Side Effects
Diarrhea, occasional allergic reactions symptoms of which are: rash, with or without itching.
Drug Interactions
None reported
Cautions and Contraindications
Cephalexin should be used with extreme caution in patients allergic to penicillin due to similarities in structure. There is an approximately 5% incidence of cross-allergic reactions in those patients previously sensitive to penicillin.
Usual Dose
1-4 gm/day given in divided doses at 6 hour intervals with the usual dose of 250 mg every 6 hours. For children 25-50 mg/kg/day in divided doses.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.