Keflex: Instructions

Cephalexin  [Oral]

Keflex

Dosage and Administration

Dosages may require modification to adjust for individual sensitivities and associated medical conditions.

Adults Under 60
Capsules
For treatment of cystitis, pharyngitis, skin and soft tissue infections and tonsillitis:
500 mg taken every 12 hours.
For treatment of all other infections:
250 mg taken every 6 hours or, if severe, up to 1 gram every 6 hours.



Oral suspension
Follow the dosing for the capsules.

Tablets
Follow the dosing for the capsules.

Adults 60 and Over
Follow the adult dosage.

Infants and Children
Capsules
This formulation is usually not used in children. See the oral suspension form.

Oral suspension
For otitis media:
Children over 1 year and up to 40 kg: 18.75 to 25 mg per kg every 12 hours.
Children over 40 kg: Follow the adult dosage.

For pharyngitis, skin and soft tissue infections or tonsillitis:
Children over 1 year and up to 40 kg: 12.5 to 25 mg per kg every 12 hours.
Children over 40 kg: Follow the adult dosage.

For other infections:
Children 1 month to 1 year: 6.25 to 12.5 mg per kg every 6 hours.
Children over 1 year and up to 40 kg: 12.5 to 25 mg per kg every 12 hours or 6.25 to 12.5 mg per kg every 6 hours. For severe infections, use 25 to 50 mg per kg every 12 hours or 12.5 to 25 mg per kg every 6 hours.
Children over 40 kg: Follow the adult dosage.
Refrigerate the oral suspension. Shake it well before use. Discard any leftover or expired medication.

Tablets
This formulation is usually not used in children. See the oral suspension form.

Maximum Dosage Recommendations
Adults: 4 grams per day.
Children: 3 grams per day.

Usual Duration of Use
The length of therapy varies depending on the infection and patient's response.

If You Miss a Dose
Take as soon as possible. If close to the next dose, skip and take the next dose. Do not double the dose.


Storage

Keep all medications out of the reach of children

Store the tablets and capsules at room temperature in a dry, dark place. Do not store in the bathroom. Moisture can cause the drug to break down. Refrigerate the suspension. Do not freeze.

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