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Compare Cephalexin vs. Clindamycin

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

Key takeaways

Cephalexin (Keflex) and Clindamycin (Cleocin) are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, but they belong to different medication classes. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic, while Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic. Both medications can treat skin infections and bone infections, but Clindamycin is also used for more serious infections like lower respiratory tract infections and bloodstream infections. Cephalexin is available as capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions, and is typically taken 2 to 4 times a day. Clindamycin is available as capsules, liquid, and injections, and is usually taken 3 to 4 times a day. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics. Common side effects of Cephalexin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, while Clindamycin can cause stomach upset, itching, and rash. Both medications can cause a serious type of diarrhea related to *Clostridioides difficile* infection. Cephalexin may interact with metformin and probenecid, while Clindamycin can interact with medications like warfarin and amiodarone.

  • Cephalexin
    Clindamycin (Cleocin)
  • Cephalexin
    Clindamycin (Cleocin)

  • Summary of Cephalexin vs. Clindamycin

    Summary for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Cephalexin is a common antibiotic that's used to treat many different bacterial infections including urinary tract infections (UTIs), ear infections, and sinus infections, to name a few. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic that kills bacteria to fight the infection. It's safe to use in people over the age of 1, and it's typically taken by mouth 2 to 4 times per day. This medication is available as a lower-cost generic capsule, tablet, and suspension; the brand name Keflex is no longer available. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

    Summary for Lincosamide antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Clindamycin (Cleocin) is a lincosamide antibiotic that's used to treat many different serious bacterial infections, such as strep throat and skin infections. This antibiotic is approved for use in both adults and children. Clindamycin (Cleocin) is available as a capsule and liquid that are taken 3 or 4 times per day, depending on your age and your infection. It's also available as an injection that's given by a healthcare professional. Side effects include stomach upset, itching, and rash.

  • Indications of Cephalexin vs. Clindamycin

    Indications for
    •Respiratory tract infections
    •Ear infections
    •Skin infections
    •Bone infections
    •Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
    •Reproductive system infections
    Indications for
    •Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)
    •Lower respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis)
    •Stomach infections
    •Pelvic and genital tract infections
    •Bloodstream infections
    •Bone and joint infections - injection form only

  • Pros and Cons of Cephalexin vs. Clindamycin

    Pros and Const for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Pros
    •Treats several common types of bacterial infections
    •Can use for adults and children over the age of 1
    •Available as a liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    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)
    Pros and Const for Lincosamide antibiotic
    Pros
    •Can treat many different infections throughout the body
    •Available as lower-cost generic capsule, liquid, and injection
    •Can take if you have a penicillin allergy
    Cons
    •Might need to take three or four times per day
    •Must take capsules with a full glass of water to prevent irritation to your esophagus (the tube that connects your throat to your stomach)
    •Risk of causing a type of infectious diarrhea

  • Common Side Effects of Cephalexin vs. Clindamycin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Indigestion
    •Stomach pain
    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Stomach pain
    •Skin rash
    •Itching

  • Warnings of Cephalexin vs. Clindamycin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Allergic reactions
    •Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
    •Development of drug-resistant bacteria
    •Seizures
    •Higher risk of bleeding
    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
    •Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
    •Development of drug-resistant bacteria

  • Prices with our coupons for Cephalexin vs. Clindamycin

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