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Compare Keflex vs. Ceclor

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

Key takeaways

Cephalexin (generic name) and Cefaclor (generic name) are both cephalosporin antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, but they have some differences. Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin, while Cefaclor is a second-generation cephalosporin. Cephalexin is typically taken 2 to 4 times a day, whereas Cefaclor is taken 2 to 3 times a day. Cephalexin is available as capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions, while Cefaclor comes in capsules, extended-release tablets, and liquid suspensions. Cephalexin is often used for respiratory tract infections, ear infections, skin infections, bone infections, UTIs, and reproductive system infections. Cefaclor is used for ear infections, lower respiratory tract infections, UTIs, strep throat, tonsil infections, and skin infections like cellulitis. Both medications can cause side effects like diarrhea and nausea, but Cefaclor can also cause headaches and runny nose. If you have a penicillin allergy, you might still be able to take either medication, but you should discuss this with your healthcare provider.

  • Cephalexin
    Cefaclor
  • Cephalexin
    Cefaclor

  • Summary of Keflex vs. Ceclor

    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 Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Cefaclor is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It's used to treat many different types of infections throughout the body in both children and adults. This medication is available as tablets and as a liquid suspension that's taken by mouth, typically 2 to 3 times daily. Because cefaclor isn't a penicillin antibiotic, you might be able to take it if you have a penicillin allergy. Some side effects of cefaclor include headache, nausea, and diarrhea.

  • Indications of Keflex vs. Ceclor

    Indications for
    •Respiratory tract infections
    •Ear infections
    •Skin infections
    •Bone infections
    •Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
    •Reproductive system infections
    Indications for
    •Ear infections (capsule and suspension only)
    •Lower respiratory tract infections
    •Urinary tract infections (UTIs) (capsule and suspension only)
    •Strep throat
    •Tonsil infections
    •Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)

  • Pros and Cons of Keflex vs. Ceclor

    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 Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Pros
    •Treats many types of bacterial infections and has generally few side effects
    •Available as a capsule, extended-release tablet, and liquid suspension
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Might not be able to take this medication if you've had a severe allergy to penicillins or other cephalosporin antibiotics
    •Needs to be taken 2 to 3 times a day
    •Liquid suspension must be stored in the refrigerator after mixing

  • Common Side Effects of Keflex vs. Ceclor

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Indigestion
    •Stomach pain
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (5%)
    •Runny nose (4%)
    •Diarrhea (4%)
    •Nausea (3%)

    Please note: These side effects were reported by people taking the cefaclor extended-release tablet.

  • Warnings of Keflex vs. Ceclor

    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
    •Infectious diarrhea
    •Difficult-to-treat infections

  • Prices with our coupons for Keflex vs. Ceclor

    Learn more about Cephalexin
    Learn more about Cefaclor

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