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Compare Augmentin vs. Cephalexin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Augmentin (amoxicillin / clavulanate)
Cephalexin
Augmentin (amoxicillin / clavulanate)
Cephalexin

Summary of Augmentin vs. Cephalexin

Summary for Penicillin antibiotic / Beta-lactamase inhibitor
Prescription only

Augmentin (amoxicillin / clavulanate) is an antibiotic medication. It contains a penicillin and a beta-lactamase inhibitor. This antibiotic treats many types of bacterial infections, like urinary tract infection (UTI), sinus infection, and ear infection, among others. It fights infections by preventing bacteria from protecting themselves from harm. This medication comes as tablets, chewable tablets, and a suspension that are taken by mouth typically two to three times daily. It's approved for use in adults and children. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and rash.

Summary for Cephalosporin antibiotic
Prescription only

Cephalexin is a common antibiotic that's used to treat many different bacterial infections including urinary tract infections (UTIs), ear infections, and sinus infections, to name a few. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic that kills bacteria to fight the infection. It's safe to use in people over the age of 1, and it's typically taken by mouth 2 to 4 times per day. This medication is available as a lower-cost generic capsule, tablet, and suspension; the brand name Keflex is no longer available. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Indications of Augmentin vs. Cephalexin

Indications for
•Ear infections
•Sinus infections
•Lower respiratory tract infections
•Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)
•Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Indications for
•Respiratory tract infections
•Ear infections
•Skin infections
•Bone infections
•Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
•Reproductive system infections

Pros and Cons of Augmentin vs. Cephalexin

Pros and Const for Penicillin antibiotic / Beta-lactamase inhibitor
Pros
•Treats many types of bacterial infections in children and adults
•Available as a tablet, chewable tablet, and oral suspension
•Available as a lower-cost generic
•Safe to use while pregnant and while breastfeeding
Cons
•Typically need to take 2 or 3 times daily
•Might not be able to take this antibiotic if you've had a severe penicillin allergy
•Can cause stomach side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Pros and Const for Cephalosporin antibiotic
Pros
•Treats several common types of bacterial infections
•Can use for adults and children over the age of 1
•Available as a liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills
•Available as a lower-cost generic
Cons
•Usually need to take a few times per day
•Might not be able to take if you're allergic to penicillins or other cephalosporin antibiotics
•Not recommended for the cold or flu (these are viral illnesses, not bacterial infections)

Common Side Effects of Augmentin vs. Cephalexin

Common Side Effects for

Immediate-release tablets, chewable tablets, and suspension

•Diarrhea or loose stools (9%)
•Nausea (3%)
•Skin rash (3%)

Extended-release tablets

•Diarrhea (15%)
•Vaginal yeast infection (3%)

Augmentin ES-600 (amoxicillin / clavulanate) suspension

•Vomiting (7%)
•Fever (6%)
•Rash (6%)
•Upper respiratory tract infection (e.g., common cold; 4%)
•Diarrhea (4%)
Common Side Effects for
•Diarrhea
•Nausea
•Vomiting
•Indigestion
•Stomach pain

Warnings of Augmentin vs. Cephalexin

Common Side Effects for
•Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
•Liver problems
•Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
•Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - for chewable tablets and suspension
Common Side Effects for
•Allergic reactions
•Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
•Development of drug-resistant bacteria
•Seizures
•Higher risk of bleeding

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