Augmentin vs. Cephalexin for Skin Infection and Ear Infection: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin) and cephalexin (Keflex) are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), ear infections, and sinus infections. However, they belong to different medication classes. Amoxicillin-clavulanate is a penicillin antibiotic combined with a beta-lactamase inhibitor, while cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic. Amoxicillin-clavulanate is available in tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid suspensions, and is typically taken two to three times a day. Cephalexin comes in capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions, and is usually taken two to four times a day. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics. Amoxicillin-clavulanate and cephalexin may interact with medications like warfarin and probenecid. Common side effects of both medications include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and rash. If you have a penicillin allergy, you might not be able to take amoxicillin-clavulanate, but you might still be able to take cephalexin, depending on the severity of your allergy.

Augmentin

(amoxicillin / clavulanate)

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Cephalexin

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Summary for Augmentin

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.

Indications for Augmentin

Pros and Cons for Augmentin

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

Common Side Effects for Augmentin

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%)

Warnings for Augmentin

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

Summary for Cephalexin

Prescription only

Cephalexin, also commonly known as Keflex, is a cephalosporin antibiotic for people ages 1 year and older. It can treat many types of bacterial infections. This includes ear infections, skin infections like cellulitis, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and strep throat. Cephalexin comes as capsules, tablets, and a liquid suspension. It's taken by mouth 2 to 4 times per day. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cephalexin is a generic medication; its brand name Keflex is no longer available.

Indications for Cephalexin

Respiratory tract infections (e.g., strep throat)
Ear infections
Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)
Bone infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Reproductive system infections (e.g., prostatitis)

Pros and Cons for Cephalexin

Pros

Treats several common types of bacterial infections
Okay for children as young as 1 year old to take
Available as a liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills

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)