Cefadroxil vs. Cephalexin for Skin Infection and Urinary Tract Infection: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

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

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Cephalexin

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Summary for Cefadroxil

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.

Indications for Cefadroxil

Pros and Cons for Cefadroxil

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

Common Side Effects for Cefadroxil

Diarrhea
Indigestion
Nausea
Vomiting

Warnings for Cefadroxil

Allergic reactions
Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
Seizures
Possible development of drug-resistant bacteria

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)