From the Research
Yes, Keflex (cephalexin) capsules can be crushed if you have difficulty swallowing them whole. If you need to crush a Keflex capsule, you can open it and mix the contents with a small amount of soft food like applesauce or pudding. Make sure to consume the entire mixture immediately to ensure you get the full dose. For liquid formulations of cephalexin, no crushing is necessary as they're already in a form that's easy to swallow. When crushing or opening any medication, it's essential to avoid inhaling the powder and to wash your hands afterward. Keep in mind that crushing antibiotics like Keflex doesn't affect their effectiveness since they aren't extended-release medications. However, the taste may be bitter, which is why mixing with food is recommended. If you regularly have trouble swallowing medications, ask your healthcare provider about prescribing the liquid form of cephalexin instead of capsules. According to the studies 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, cephalexin is well absorbed and effective in treating various infections, but there is no specific guidance on crushing the capsules. Nevertheless, based on the pharmacological properties of cephalexin, crushing the capsules is unlikely to affect their efficacy.
Some key points to consider when crushing Keflex capsules include:
- Avoid inhaling the powder to prevent respiratory irritation
- Wash your hands after handling the medication
- Mix the crushed capsule with a small amount of soft food to minimize the bitter taste
- Consume the entire mixture immediately to ensure you get the full dose
- Consider asking your healthcare provider about prescribing the liquid form of cephalexin if you regularly have trouble swallowing medications.
It's also important to note that cephalexin is not absorbed from the stomach, but is totally and rapidly absorbed in the upper intestine 1, which suggests that crushing the capsules is unlikely to affect their absorption. However, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider before crushing any medication, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.