Key takeaways
Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) and cephalexin are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs) and sinus infections. However, they belong to different medication classes. Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, while cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic. Ciprofloxacin is typically taken twice a day and is available as a pill, oral solution, and injection, whereas cephalexin is taken 2 to 4 times a day and comes in capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions. Ciprofloxacin is often reserved for more serious infections due to its potential for serious side effects, such as tendon rupture and nerve damage. Cephalexin, on the other hand, is generally considered safer and is available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of both medications include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Both medications can interact with many medications, including metformin, probenecid and warfarin.
