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Some doctors prescribe cephalexin for tooth infections, such as an abscess. It can also be used for treating bone infections, such as those caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus mirabilis.

Dosage

The typical dose of cephalexin for an adult with a tooth infection is a total of 1-4 grams per day taken in divided doses. Typically, the prescription is written as 250 mg every six hours, or 500 mg every 12 hours. A doctor may prescribe higher doses of cephalexin for tooth and bone infections if the infection is more severe.

Side Effects

Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness, headaches, stomach pain, heartburn, and rectal or genital itching. To learn more, please visit our page on cephalexin side effects.

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