What is Teva 3147 red pill used for?: Understanding Your Cephalexin Medication

October 11, 2025 •

2 min read

The imprint TEVA 3147 on a Swedish orange (often perceived as red) capsule signifies a 500mg dose of Cephalexin monohydrate, a powerful antibiotic used to combat various bacterial infections. This medication is most effective against infections of the respiratory, urinary, and skin systems, working by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls.

Quick Summary

The Teva 3147 capsule is a 500mg cephalexin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections in the respiratory tract, middle ear, skin, and urinary tract. It works by preventing bacteria from building their cell walls. The article details its specific uses, potential side effects, and necessary warnings for safe use.

Key Points

Identification: The Teva 3147 red (Swedish orange) pill is a 500mg Cephalexin capsule, a generic version of the antibiotic Keflex.
Primary Use: It is prescribed to treat various bacterial infections, including those affecting the respiratory tract, ears, skin, bones, and urinary tract.
Mechanism of Action: Cephalexin works by killing susceptible bacteria through the inhibition of cell-wall synthesis.
Important Warnings: Serious allergic reactions are possible, especially for those with known penicillin or cephalosporin allergies.
Common Side Effects: The most frequent side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Drug Interactions: Use caution with metformin and probenecid, and be aware of potential interactions with certain vaccines.
Complete Course: To ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent antibiotic resistance, patients must complete the entire course of medication as prescribed.

Identifying the Teva 3147 pill

A Swedish orange capsule with the imprint 'TEVA 3147' contains 500mg of Cephalexin Monohydrate. This is a generic version of the antibiotic Keflex, manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals. Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic available by prescription.

Therapeutic uses of cephalexin

Cephalexin is an oral antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections but is not effective against viral illnesses. A healthcare provider must diagnose a bacterial infection before prescribing it.

Cephalexin is used to treat infections in several areas:

Respiratory Tract: Including pneumonia, pharyngitis, and tonsillitis caused by susceptible bacteria.
Otitis Media: Middle ear infections.
Skin and Skin Structure: Infections caused by certain Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes strains.
Bone: Infections caused by susceptible Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus mirabilis isolates.
Genitourinary Tract: Such as bladder and kidney infections.
Bacterial Endocarditis Prevention: Used before certain dental procedures in at-risk patients.

Mechanism of action

Cephalexin kills bacteria by interfering with the synthesis of their cell walls, causing them to rupture and die. It is rapidly absorbed after being taken by mouth.

Common side effects and potential risks

Common, usually temporary, side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, itching, dizziness, fatigue, and headache. Serious side effects like severe allergic reactions, Clostridium difficile infection (severe diarrhea), and seizures can occur, especially in patients with kidney problems, and require immediate medical attention.

Warnings and precautions

Before taking cephalexin, inform your doctor about allergies, particularly to penicillin or other cephalosporins. Dosage adjustments may be needed for patients with kidney problems. Individuals with a history of colitis should be cautious due to the risk of C. difficile infection. Cephalexin can interact with other medications like metformin and probenecid, and some vaccines. It is crucial to complete the full prescribed course to prevent antibiotic resistance.

Teva Cephalexin vs. Keflex

Both Teva Cephalexin (TEVA 3147) and Keflex contain the same active ingredient, Cephalexin Monohydrate 500mg, and treat the same infections. Teva's version is a generic, typically lower in cost, while Keflex is the brand name. They are considered therapeutically equivalent.


Feature	Teva Cephalexin (TEVA 3147)	Keflex (Original Brand)
Active Ingredient	Cephalexin Monohydrate 500mg	Cephalexin Monohydrate 500mg
Manufacturer	Teva Pharmaceuticals	A brand name pharmaceutical company
Dosage	500mg capsule	500mg capsule
Appearance	Swedish orange capsule imprinted 'TEVA 3147'	Often different appearance (e.g., different color, shape, imprint)
Bioequivalence	Therapeutically equivalent, meaning it performs the same function in the body	The original standard against which generics are measured
Cost	Typically lower due to being a generic	Usually higher
Uses	Identical list of indications	Identical list of indications

Conclusion

The Teva 3147 capsule, containing 500mg of Cephalexin, is a widely used antibiotic for various bacterial infections. Proper use, awareness of side effects and interactions, and completing the full course are essential for effective treatment and preventing resistance. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Further information can be found in the official labeling on the DailyMed website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the Teva 3147 capsule contains 500mg of Cephalexin, which is the same active ingredient found in the brand-name drug Keflex. Teva is a generic manufacturer, so the medication is considered a bioequivalent and works the same way.

No, Cephalexin is an antibiotic and is only effective against infections caused by bacteria. It will not work for viral illnesses such as the flu, colds, or COVID-19.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Cephalexin is prescribed for pediatric patients, with the dose determined based on the child's body weight and the type of infection. The Teva 3147 capsule (500mg) should only be used in children and adolescents capable of ingesting a capsule, typically aged 15 and older for standard dosage.

While uncommon, serious side effects include severe allergic reactions, Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (which can manifest as severe, bloody diarrhea), and seizures, especially in patients with poor kidney function. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

The duration of treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the infection. A typical course can last from 7 to 14 days. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and finish the full course, even if your symptoms improve sooner.

Yes, Cephalexin may decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. It is recommended to use an additional, alternative form of contraception to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication.