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Compare Cefazolin vs. Cephalexin

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

Key takeaways

Cefazolin (Ancef) and cephalexin (Keflex) are both cephalosporin antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections. They share some common uses, such as treating respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, they differ in several ways. Cefazolin is a first-generation cephalosporin available only as an injection, typically administered in a hospital setting, while cephalexin is available in oral forms like capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions, making it more convenient for home use. Cefazolin is often used for more severe infections and surgical infection prevention, whereas cephalexin is commonly used for milder infections, including ear and sinus infections. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic. Both medications can cause side effects like diarrhea and allergic reactions. Additionally, they can both can interact with probenecid and require dose adjustments for people with kidney problems.

  • Cefazolin (Ancef)
    Cephalexin
  • Cefazolin (Ancef)
    Cephalexin

  • Summary of Cefazolin vs. Cephalexin

    Summary for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Cefazolin (Ancef) is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that treats many types of bacterial infections and prevents infections from surgery. It fights infections by killing bacteria. This medication can be used in adults and children over 1 month of age. Cefazolin (Ancef) is only available as an injection that's given through the veins (intravenously or IV) or into the muscle (intramuscularly or IM). Side effects aren't common, but you might not be able to take cefazolin (Ancef) if you have an allergy to other antibiotics, such as penicillins and other cephalosporins like cephalexin.

    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 Cefazolin vs. Cephalexin

    Indications for
    •Respiratory tract infections
    •Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
    •Skin infections
    •Liver and gallbladder infections
    •Bone and joint infections
    •Genital infections
    •Bloodstream infections
    •Heart infections
    •Prevention of infection from surgery
    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 Cefazolin vs. Cephalexin

    Pros and Const for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Pros
    •Treats many types of bacterial infections
    •Helps prevent infections from happening if you get it right before surgery
    •Generally has few side effects
    •Safe to use during pregnancy as long as the potential benefits outweigh the risks
    Cons
    •Only available as an injection, so it's usually given in the hospital or provider's office
    •Not recommended to be used for viral infections (e.g., the common cold)
    •Can be troublesome to take, especially if you need to take it every 6 to 8 hours (3 to 4 times a day)
    •Can leave a metallic or sour taste in the mouth
    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 Cefazolin vs. Cephalexin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Side effects aren't common. See Other.
    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Indigestion
    •Stomach pain

  • Warnings of Cefazolin vs. Cephalexin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Allergic reaction
    •Diarrhea caused by C. difficile infection
    •Development of drug-resistant bacteria
    •Requires dose adjustment in people with kidney problems
    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 Cefazolin vs. Cephalexin

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    Learn more about Cephalexin

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