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Compare Cefadroxil vs. Cephalexin

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

Key takeaways

Cefadroxil (Duricef) and cephalexin (Keflex) are both cephalosporin antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, including urinary tract and skin infections. They share a similar mechanism of action by preventing bacteria from forming a protective covering. However, they differ in several ways. Cefadroxil is typically taken once or twice a day, while cephalexin is taken 2 to 4 times a day. Both medications are available as affordable generics and come in tablets, capsules, and liquid suspensions. Common side effects for both include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Both medications may interact with probenacid, while cephalexin also has an interaction with metformin listed. Additionally, cephalexin is used for a broader range of infections, including respiratory and ear infections, which are not listed for cefadroxil.

  • Cefadroxil
    Cephalexin
  • Cefadroxil
    Cephalexin

  • Summary of Cefadroxil vs. Cephalexin

    Summary for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Cefadroxil is an antibiotic that can treat many types of bacterial infections in adults and children. This includes urinary tract infections (UTIs), strep throat, and skin infections. Cefadroxil works as a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic to fight the infection. It comes as generic capsules, tablets, and a liquid suspension. The antibiotic is taken by mouth, usually once or twice a day. But the dosage depends on the type of infection you have, how serious it is, and for children, weight. Side effects can include diarrhea, indigestion, and nausea.

    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 Cefadroxil vs. Cephalexin

    Indications for
    •Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
    •Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)
    •Strep throat
    •Tonsillitis
    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 Cefadroxil vs. Cephalexin

    Pros and Const for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Pros
    •Treats many types of bacterial infections
    •Taken once or twice a day, with or without food
    •Also available as a liquid suspension for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    Cons
    •Not recommended to be used for the cold or flu (since these are viral illnesses)
    •Might not be a good option if you have gut inflammation or other digestive tract problems
    •Might not be able to take if you're allergic to penicillins or other cephalosporin antibiotics
    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 Cefadroxil vs. Cephalexin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea
    •Indigestion
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Indigestion
    •Stomach pain

  • Warnings of Cefadroxil vs. Cephalexin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Allergic reactions
    •Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
    •Seizures
    •Possible development of drug-resistant bacteria
    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 Cefadroxil vs. Cephalexin

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