|
|
|
Keflex |
|
|
What is Keflex and why is it prescribed? Keflex is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It is prescribed for bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, the middle ear, the bones, the skin, and the reproductive and urinary systems. Because they are effective for only certain types of bacterial infections, before beginning Keflex treatment your doctor may perform tests to identify the organisms causing the infection. If you are allergic to either penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics in any form, consult your doctor before taking Keflex. There is a possibility that you are allergic to Keflex and if a reaction occurs, it could be extremely severe. If you take Keflex and feel signs of a reaction, seek medical attention immediately. How should you take Keflex? Follow your doctors directions for taking Keflex. Keflex may be taken with or without meals. However, if Keflex upsets your stomach, you may want to take it after you have eaten. Take Keflex at even intervals around the clock as prescribed by your doctor. If you are taking the liquid form of Keflex, use the specially marked spoon to measure each dose accurately. To obtain maximum benefit, it is important that you finish taking all of this medication, even if you are feeling better. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, and you take 2 doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 5 to 6 hours later. If you take 3 or more doses a day, take the one you missed and the next dose 2 to 4 hours later, or double the next dose. Then go back to your regular schedule. Store capsules and tablets at room temperature. Store the liquid suspension in a refrigerator; discard any unused medication after 14 days. Are there any Keflex side effects? Keflex side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Keflex side effects may include diarrhea. Less common or rare Keflex side effects may include abdominal pain, agitation, colitis, confusion, dizziness, fatigue, fever, genital and rectal itching, hallucinations, headache, hepatitis, hives, indigestion, inflammation of joints, inflammation of the stomach, joint pain, nausea, rash, seizures, severe allergic reaction, skin peeling, skin redness, swelling due to fluid retention, vaginal discharge, vaginal inflammation, vomiting, and yellowing of skin and whites of eyes. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Keflex? If Keflex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Keflex with Certain diarrhea medications (such as Lomotil) or Oral contraceptives. Are there any special warnings about Keflex? If you have a history of stomach or intestinal disease, especially colitis, check with your doctor before taking Keflex. If you have ever had an allergic reaction, particularly to drugs, be sure to tell your doctor. If diarrhea occurs while taking Keflex, check with your doctor before taking a remedy. Certain diarrhea medications (for instance, Lomotil) may increase your diarrhea or make it last longer. Prolonged use of Keflex may result in an overgrowth of bacteria that do not respond to the medication, causing a secondary infection. Your doctor will monitor your use of this drug on a regular basis. If you have a kidney disorder, check with your doctor before taking Keflex. If you are diabetic, it is important to note that Keflex may cause false results in tests for urine sugar. Notify your doctor that you are taking this medication before being tested. Do not change your diet or dosage of diabetes medication without first consulting with your doctor. If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they get worse, notify your doctor immediately. Do not give Keflex to other people or use it for other infections before checking with your doctor. |
|
|
Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
|
|
Copyright 2008 MyMedications.net. All rights reserved. |
|
