Question:
MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT MY INCISION POSSIBLY BEING INFECTED???? HELP!!

OK, I know this is dumb but here goes. I went on to my doc (my surgeon) today and he said my incision, which has 3 spots that are red and very sore, and warm to touch, was ok, no abcess, and that the infection is not deep, but I do need to take antibiotics. He rx'd Keflex. Since this surgery (RNY post op 4 weeks ago) I am scared of meds that are not tablets. I am scared to take the Keflex! It is a large capsule and I am terrified it will lodge in my pouch or something. Can anyone explain to me what happens when you take meds after this surgery? I am almost phobic about it at this point and I know I need to take this antibiotic! Also could I open the capsule and put it on applesauce? (YUCK!) Also, if anyone has taken Keflex, did it make you sick? It is 500 mg twice a day. Should I take it with food? I know I should have cleared all this up with him but for some reason I left his office without saying a word. I guess I was just trying to be a good patient? Sorry this is so long but I am scared! Visions of absesses and packing, etc!!! Thanks, Pam in GA    — Pam B. (posted on November 14, 2003)

November 13, 2003
I have the same fears, so to be on the safe side call the pharmacist and ask if its of to open and add to apple sauce, my Rx potassium says (donot open or crush) but my doc and pharmicest said it was ok to open it and add it to applesauce. However I use a very small amount of sugar free chocolate syrup and open my capsules into that, and stir it up and it tast so much better, then I take a drink to wash it down. I have tried to add it to my protien drinks but that just dont get it for me. I hope this helps:0)
   — wizz46

November 13, 2003
My doc prescribed the same drug but in liquid form. It was that bubble-gum pink that children take. A little yucky but went down just fine and the infection disappeared.
   — Margaret G.

November 14, 2003
Hi Pam , so glad to here this problem is minimal and an antibiotic will probably clear it up. Just wanted to let you know that when I was sent home the 2nd time(2 weeks postop) I was given that capsule too and I was also afraid it would get stuck. I called the drs. office and the nurse said I could put it in yogurt or applesauce or take a sip of water b4 trying to take the pill to aid in going down smoothly.I tried both and that was one nasty powder. Swallowing wasnt near as bad. Best wishes and happy losing.
   — loisph

November 19, 2003
I'm always surprised at this fear! Why do you think the surgeon would give you something that would get stuck?? Are you on regular food now? Trust me, there may be food pieces the size of that pill and they go through just fine as a general rule. It is very important to take the antibiotic just as it was prescribed to you, don't delay taking this med due to your fear, your infection could get worse!! If you feel more comfortable, then open the capsule and put it in something and take it that way. We often do that for patients. The only time you don't is if it is time released; ask your pharmacist about it. Keflex can irritate your stomach, so take it with food. Hoping you are all well soon!!! karen (open rny 9/6/01, 297/147)
   — Karen M.