From the FDA Drug Label
- After mixing, store in refrigerator. May be kept for 14 days without significant loss of potency.
The shelf life of cephalexin suspension after mixing is 14 days when stored in the refrigerator, according to the drug label 1.
From the Research
Cephalexin is typically good for one year from the date of dispensing when stored properly, as there is no direct evidence provided in the given studies regarding its shelf life. After the expiration date, the medication may lose potency and should not be used. Proper storage means keeping cephalexin at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. The antibiotic should be kept in its original container with the child-resistant cap secured. Liquid cephalexin suspensions have a shorter shelf life, usually 14 days when refrigerated, after which they should be discarded even if some medication remains. Never use cephalexin that has changed color, developed an unusual odor, or shows other signs of deterioration. Using expired antibiotics can lead to treatment failure and potentially contribute to antibiotic resistance. Always check the expiration date on your medication bottle before taking it, and properly dispose of expired medications through drug take-back programs or by following FDA guidelines for safe disposal 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Some key points to consider when storing cephalexin include:
- Store at room temperature (between 59-86°F or 15-30°C)
- Keep away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light
- Use the original container with the child-resistant cap secured
- Refrigerate liquid suspensions and discard after 14 days
- Check the expiration date before use and dispose of expired medication properly
It's essential to prioritize the patient's safety and the effectiveness of the medication by following proper storage and handling procedures. In the absence of specific information on cephalexin's shelf life from the provided studies, it's crucial to rely on general guidelines for antibiotic storage and handling 2. The studies provided primarily focus on the comparison of cephalexin with other antibiotics, such as azithromycin, in the treatment of various infections 3, 4, 5, or the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of certain bacteria 6, rather than the shelf life of cephalexin itself.