Keflex (cephalexin) tips from pharmacists

• Taking Keflex with food can help with stomach upset and diarrhea. However, if you experience worsened, bloody, or watery diarrhea, you need to let your doctor know right away; these can be signs of C. diff-associated diarrhea.

• Let your doctor know right away and seek emergency medical attention if you develop a rash, trouble breathing, or swelling on your lips and throat while taking this medication. 

• Do not stop taking Keflex even if you start to feel better. Skipping doses and not finishing the entire course of antibiotics can cause drug-resistant bacteria - a more challenging infection to treat.

• You should use an oral syringe or medicine dose-measuring device for the most accurate dosing of Keflex oral suspension.

• Keflex oral suspension should be stored in the refrigerator; shake well before using to ensure the medicine is mixed evenly. Throw away the suspension bottle after 4 days or after you complete the prescribed course of antibiotics. You should never use old or expired antibiotics.  

• Most of the time, Keflex requires 4 times a day dosing, which can be easy to miss a dose. Setting a reminder on your phone or using a pill organizer can help you remember taking your medication.