Key takeaways
Cephalexin (Keflex) and ceftriaxone (Rocephin) are both cephalosporin antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs) and ear infections. However, they differ in several ways. Cephalexin is taken orally as capsules, tablets, or liquid suspensions, while ceftriaxone is given as an injection into the veins or muscles, usually in a healthcare setting. Cephalexin is typically taken 2 to 4 times a day, whereas ceftriaxone is usually given once a day. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of cephalexin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, while ceftriaxone can cause injection site pain and, less commonly, nervous system side effects like confusion and seizures. Cephalexin may interact with medications like metformin and probenecid, whereas ceftriaxone should not be mixed with calcium-containing medications and also interacts with probenecid.
