Compare Augmentin vs. Keflex
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) and cephalexin are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, but they belong to different classes. Augmentin is a combination of a penicillin antibiotic and a beta-lactamase inhibitor, which helps it fight bacteria that might be resistant to amoxicillin alone. Cephalexin, on the other hand, is a cephalosporin antibiotic that works by preventing bacteria from forming a protective covering. Augmentin is typically taken two to three times a day, while cephalexin is taken two to four times a day. Both medications are available in generic forms and can be used in adults and children. Common side effects for both include diarrhea, nausea, and rash, but Augmentin can also cause liver problems and is not recommended for those with a severe penicillin allergy. Cephalexin might be a better option if you have a mild penicillin allergy, but it can increase the risk of seizures and bleeding, especially in people with kidney problems.
- Augmentin (amoxicillin / clavulanate)Cephalexin
- Augmentin (amoxicillin / clavulanate)Cephalexin
Summary of Augmentin vs. Keflex
Summary for Penicillin antibiotic / Beta-lactamase inhibitorPrescription onlyAugmentin (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 antibioticPrescription onlyCephalexin 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. Keflex
Indications for•Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)Indications forPros and Cons of Augmentin vs. Keflex
Pros and Const for Penicillin antibiotic / Beta-lactamase inhibitorPros•Treats many types of bacterial infections in children and adults•Available as a tablet, chewable tablet, and oral suspension•Available as a lower-cost genericCons•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 diarrheaPros and Const for Cephalosporin antibioticPros•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 genericCons•Usually need to take a few times per day•Not recommended for the cold or flu (these are viral illnesses, not bacterial infections)Common Side Effects of Augmentin vs. Keflex
Common Side Effects forImmediate-release tablets, chewable tablets, and suspension
•Diarrhea or loose stools (9%)•Nausea (3%)•Skin rash (3%)•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 painWarnings of Augmentin vs. Keflex
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 suspensionCommon Side Effects for•Allergic reactions•Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection•Development of drug-resistant bacteria•Seizures•Higher risk of bleedingPrices with our coupons for Augmentin vs. Keflex
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