Keflex: Warnings

Cephalexin  [Oral]

Keflex

Precautions

• Inform your physician if you are allergic to cephalosporins or penciillins.
• If you experience an allergic reaction after using cephalexin, such as hives, a skin rash or difficulty breathing, discontinue the medication immediately and, depending on the severity of the reaction, either dial 911 for emergency help or tell your physician.
• Diarrhea caused by pseudomembranous colitis has been reported with nearly all antibiotics. Consider this a possiblity if severe diarrhea occurs after using cephalexin.

Adults Over 60
Use with caution in this age group, as older patients are more likely to experience the drug's adverse reactions.

Drug Dependency
This drug is not expected to cause physical or psychological dependence.

Pregnancy Risk Category: B



Pregnancy Warnings
There are no adequate studies of fetal harm in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or plan to be, discuss this with your physician before initiating therapy.

Nursing Mothers
Because of the risk of potential harm to the newborn, avoid using this drug while breastfeeding. If therapy is necessary, avoid breastfeeding while on this drug.

Prolonged Use
Prolonged use can cause superinfections of non-susceptible organisms, including serious, sometimes life-threatening diarrhea caused by pseudomembranous colitis. As with the other cephalosporins, periodic assessment of organ system function including kidney, liver and blood systems is recommended. Consult your physician about regular examinations.

Discontinuing Therapy
Do not discontinue until you have finished the prescription, even if your symptoms have improved.

Operating a Vehicle or Heavy Machinery
No problems expected.

Sun Exposure
No problems expected.

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