Common Questions about Keflex (cephalexin)

Can I use Keflex for a gum infection?

Yes. Keflex (cephalexin) can treat gum infections and tooth abscesses. You should get examined by a dentist or other healthcare professional to ensure Keflex is the best choice for you.

I’m allergic to amoxicillin. Can I take Keflex?

Amoxicillin belongs to an antibiotic class called penicillin, and Keflex (cephalexin) belongs to another antibiotic class called cephalosporin. If you are allergic to penicillins, there is a high chance that you will be allergic to cephalosporins as well. Talk to your doctor before you start taking any antibiotics. Regarding penicillin allergy, other safer choices include doxycycline, azithromycin, and erythromycin.  

How long does it take for Keflex to make me feel better?

You should start feeling better after 2 days of taking this medication. However, that does not mean the infection is gone. It is important that you take Keflex for the full prescribed length to prevent antibiotic-resistant bugs. 

Can I take Keflex (cephalexin) for strep throat?

Yes. Keflex can be used to treat strep throat. As a matter of fact, cephalosporins such as Keflex are three times more effective in treating strep than penicillins.     

Can I take Keflex if I have a sulfa allergy?

Yes. Keflex (cephalexin) is not a sulfa drug, so it is safe to take Keflex if you have a sulfa allergy.

Does Keflex effect my birth control?

Except for rifampin, most antibiotics, including Keflex (cephalexin), are safe to take with birth controls. However, one study reported a small number of individuals whose antibiotics reduced their birth control's effectiveness. So even though there is a very small chance of pregnancy, using back-up birth control such as condoms is recommended to be as safe as possible. You can stop using the back-up birth control 7 days after the last dose of antibiotic.  

What is the price of Keflex without insurance?

Without insurance, Keflex can be as high as $20.71 (generic), but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $9.71 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not. 

What is the price of Keflex with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on Keflex—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for Kelfex. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medication, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.