Key takeaways
Cleocin (clindamycin) and cephalexin are both antibiotics, but they have different uses and forms. Cleocin (clindamycin) is a lincosamide antibiotic used as a vaginal suppository to treat bacterial vaginosis. It is only available as a brand-name medication and is typically used once daily for three days. On the other hand, cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic available in generic form as capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions. It treats a variety of infections, including respiratory, ear, skin, bone, urinary tract, and reproductive system infections, and is taken orally 2 to 4 times per day for 7 to 14 days. Cleocin (clindamycin) is inserted vaginally, which might be uncomfortable for some, while cephalexin is taken by mouth. Cephalexin can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, whereas Cleocin (clindamycin) might cause local side effects like vaginal irritation and yeast infections. Additionally, Cleocin (clindamycin) can weaken condoms and diaphragms, while cephalexin has no such effect.
