How should I take cephalexin?
Take the medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions on your prescription label.
Take cephalexin with a full glass of water.
Dissolve the cephalexin dispersible tablet in a small amount of water, about 2 teaspoonfuls. Stir this mixture and drink all of it right away. To make sure you get the entire dose, add a little more water to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away. Do not swallow or chew a dispersible tablet.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Take cephalexin for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Cephalexin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.
This medication can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using cephalexin.
Store the tablets and capsules at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Store the liquid medicine in the refrigerator. Throw away any unused medication after 14 days.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, and blood in your urine.