Yes, the brand-name version of the antibiotic Keflex has been discontinued. While the specific brand-name product known as Keflex is no longer available, its active ingredient, cephalexin, is still widely available as a generic medication.
Understanding Cephalexin and Keflex
Keflex was a well-known brand name for the antibiotic cephalexin. Medications often have both a brand name (given by the pharmaceutical company) and a generic name (the active chemical compound).
Here's a breakdown:
- Keflex: This was the original brand-name version of cephalexin. It is no longer manufactured or sold under this specific brand name.
- Cephalexin: This is the generic name for the antibiotic. It is still widely produced and prescribed by various generic manufacturers. Cephalexin is available in different forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions that are taken by mouth.
What Does This Mean for Patients?
Patients who were previously prescribed Keflex will now receive the generic version, cephalexin. The generic version contains the same active ingredient and works in the same way as the brand-name product.
Here are some key points:
- Availability: Generic cephalexin is readily available at pharmacies.
- Effectiveness: Generic cephalexin has the same effectiveness, dosage, and uses as the original Keflex. It is used to treat various bacterial infections.
- Cost: Generic medications are typically more affordable than their brand-name counterparts, which can be beneficial for patients.
Why Do Brand-Name Medications Get Discontinued?
Several reasons can lead to the discontinuation of a brand-name medication, even if its generic version remains available:
- Patent Expiration: Once a drug's patent expires, other companies can produce generic versions. This often leads the original brand-name manufacturer to cease production if generic competition significantly reduces their market share.
- Economic Factors: It may no longer be economically viable for the original manufacturer to produce the brand-name version due to declining sales or shifting market dynamics.
- Manufacturing Changes: Companies may consolidate their product lines or shift focus to other drugs.
In summary, while the familiar name "Keflex" might be gone from pharmacy shelves, the essential medication, cephalexin, continues to be a crucial tool in fighting bacterial infections.
