Keflex vs. Cedax for Ear Infection and Upper Respiratory Infection: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Cephalexin (Keflex) and ceftibuten (Cedax) are both cephalosporin antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections. They share similarities in treating infections of the ears, throat, and respiratory tract. However, cephalexin is also used for skin, bone, urinary tract, and reproductive system infections, while ceftibuten is specifically used for bronchitis, otitis media, and strep throat. Cephalexin is available as a generic medication in capsules, tablets, and liquid forms, whereas ceftibuten, previously sold under the brand name Cedax, is no longer available in the U.S. Cephalexin is typically taken 2 to 4 times a day, while ceftibuten was taken once daily. Common side effects of cephalexin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and it may interact with medications like metformin and probenecid. Ceftibuten's discontinuation was not due to safety or effectiveness issues, but its availability is limited.

Cephalexin

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Cedax

(ceftibuten)

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Summary for Keflex

Prescription only

Cephalexin, also commonly known as Keflex, is a cephalosporin antibiotic for people ages 1 year and older. It can treat many types of bacterial infections. This includes ear infections, skin infections like cellulitis, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and strep throat. Cephalexin comes as capsules, tablets, and a liquid suspension. It's taken by mouth 2 to 4 times per day. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cephalexin is a generic medication; its brand name Keflex is no longer available.

Indications for Keflex

Respiratory tract infections (e.g., strep throat)
Ear infections
Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)
Bone infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Reproductive system infections (e.g., prostatitis)

Pros and Cons for Keflex

Pros

Treats several common types of bacterial infections
Okay for children as young as 1 year old to take
Available as a liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills

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)

Common Side Effects for Keflex

Diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting
Indigestion
Stomach pain

Warnings for Keflex

Allergic reactions
Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
Seizures
Higher risk of bleeding
Possible development of drug-resistant bacteria

Summary for Cedax

Discontinued

Cedax (ceftibuten) is a cephalosporin antibiotic that treats bacterial infections of the lungs (bronchitis), ears (otitis media), and throat (strep throat and tonsillitis). It is no longer available in the U.S.