Keflex Antibiotic: Uses and Side Effects

Keflex is an antibiotic medication commonly used to treat bacterial infections like skin infections and urinary tract infections.
Category
Drug
Where to get
Available by prescription at pharmacies.
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Keflex FAQ

What is Keflex used for?

What is Keflex? Keflex is a cephalosporin (SEF a low spor in) antibiotic. It works by fighting bacteria in your body. Keflex is used to treat infections caused by bacteria, including upper respiratory infections, ear infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections and bone infections.

Can I take Keflex If I have a cold?

Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Cephalexin will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold. Do not share Keflex with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

Does Keflex treat a bacterial infection?

They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold ). When KEFLEX is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, tell patients that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed.

How does cephalexin work?

It works by fighting bacteria in your body. Cephalexin is used to treat infections caused by bacteria, including upper respiratory infections, ear infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections and bone infections. Cephalexin is used to treat infections in adults and children who are at least 1 year old.

What is Keflex ® (cephalexin)?

KEFLEX® (cephalexin) Capsules, USP is a semisynthetic cephalosporin antibacterial drug intended for oral administration. It is 7- (D-α-Amino-α-phenylacetamido)-3-methyl-3-cephem-4-carboxylic acid monohydrate. Cephalexin has the molecular formula C 16 H 17 N 3 O 4 S•H 2 O and the molecular weight is 365.41.

How long does Keflex take to work?

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of KEFLEX and other antibacterial drugs, KEFLEX should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria. ( 1.6 ) Duration of therapy ranges from 7 to 14 days depending on the infection type and severity. ( 2 )

Keflex References

If you want to know more about Keflex, consider exploring links below:

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