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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 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, 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 of Augmentin vs. Keflex

    Indications for
    •Ear infections
    •Sinus infections
    •Lower respiratory tract infections
    •Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)
    •Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
    Indications for
    •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 of Augmentin vs. Keflex

    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
    •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)

  • Common Side Effects of Augmentin vs. Keflex

    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. 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 suspension
    Common Side Effects for
    •Allergic reactions
    •Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
    •Seizures
    •Higher risk of bleeding
    •Possible development of drug-resistant bacteria

  • Prices with our coupons for Augmentin vs. Keflex

    Learn more about Augmentin
    Learn more about Cephalexin

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