What Should I Do If I'm Short a Capsule of My Medication?
At 22 years old, I have been prescribed a total of 20 capsules of Keflex to treat cellulitis. My dosage requires me to take two capsules every 12 hours. However, I now find myself with only 9 capsules remaining, leading me to wonder if I miscounted, lost one, or unintentionally took an extra capsule. I reached out to the urgent care facility where I obtained the prescription, and the staff member I spoke with reassured me it was not a significant issue, regardless of the cause of the discrepancy. Nonetheless, I continue to feel a bit anxious about the situation and am unsure if I spoke to someone who was qualified to provide medical advice. Should I seek to obtain a replacement for the missing capsule, or would it suffice to continue taking the remaining capsules as prescribed? Is there any substantial risk associated with either choice? For context, I also take Prilosec to manage my GERD symptoms.
Answers (1)
8/13/2025, 1:10:40 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel anxious about medication discrepancies, especially when treating an infection like cellulitis. Let’s address your concerns clearly.
Key Points:
- Current Situation: You have 9 capsules of Keflex left and are unsure about the missing capsule.
- Advice from Urgent Care: The staff reassured you that it’s not a significant issue.
- Decision Making: You need guidance on whether to seek a replacement or continue with your current supply.
Explanation:
Keflex (cephalexin) is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, and it’s crucial to complete the full course as prescribed. If you have 9 capsules left and your dosage is 2 capsules every 12 hours, you can continue your current regimen for a short while; however, you will run out before the complete treatment period ends (2 capsules every 12 hours means you will need 20 capsules over 120 hours or 5 days).
Next Steps:
- Do Not Panic: Missing one capsule is usually not a cause for concern, but you still need to ensure you complete your course.
- Acquire More Capsules: Contact your healthcare provider or pharmacy to explain the situation and request a replacement or refill. Explain your specific needs — they might be able to accommodate you since this is an ongoing treatment for an infection.
- Continue Your Current Dosage: Take the remaining capsules as prescribed. If you notice any worsening of your symptoms, such as increasing redness, swelling, fever, or any new symptoms, it's essential to notify your healthcare provider.
- Track Your Medication: In the future, consider keeping a medication log, noting each dose as you take it. This might help prevent similar situations from arising.
If you have any more questions or worries about your treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out to a medical professional. Your health is important, and being proactive is the right approach!
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