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Compare Keflex vs. Clindesse

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

Key takeaways

Cephalexin (generic name) and Clindesse (brand name for clindamycin) are both antibiotics, but they treat different types of infections and are used in different ways. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic taken orally to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. It is available in generic forms as capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions. On the other hand, Clindesse is a lincosamide antibiotic used vaginally to treat bacterial vaginosis. It comes as a cream or gel, with some formulations requiring only a single dose. While cephalexin can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, Clindesse might cause local side effects such as pain or discomfort around the vulva and vagina, and it can also lead to yeast infections. Additionally, Clindesse can weaken condoms and diaphragms, making them less effective. Cephalexin is generally safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, whereas only certain formulations of clindamycin are approved for use during pregnancy.

  • Cephalexin
    Clindamycin vaginal cream
  • Cephalexin
    Clindamycin vaginal cream

  • Summary of Keflex vs. Clindesse

    Summary for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    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.

    Summary for Lincosamide antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Clindamycin vaginal cream is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV). It’s available under two brand names, Clindesse and Cleocin, and applied inside the vagina using an applicator. Clindesse is a single-dose treatment used one time, while Cleocin and its generic versions are typically used once a day at bedtime for 3 or 7 days. Common side effects include vaginal irritation and yeast infections.

  • Indications of Keflex vs. Clindesse

    Indications for
    •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)
    Indications for
    •Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

  • Pros and Cons of Keflex vs. Clindesse

    Pros and Const for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    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)
    Pros and Const for Lincosamide antibiotic
    Pros
    •Applied directly in the vagina to treat the problem where it is
    •Easy to apply using the applicator
    •Available as both single-dose (Clindesse) and multi-day (Cleocin) options
    Cons
    •Can cause yeast infections
    •Can't use condoms, diaphragms, or tampons for several days after finishing treatment
    •Possible irritation or discomfort

  • Common Side Effects of Keflex vs. Clindesse

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Indigestion
    •Stomach pain
    Common Side Effects for

    Clindesse:

    •Vaginal yeast infection (14%)
    •Headache (7%)
    •Back pain (5%)
    •Constipation (2%)
    •Urinary tract infection (2%)

    Cleocin and its generics:

    •Vaginal yeast infection (8-14%)
    •Vaginal irritation (4-6%)
    •Vaginal problems (3-5%)

  • Warnings of Keflex vs. Clindesse

    Common Side Effects for
    •Allergic reactions
    •Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
    •Seizures
    •Higher risk of bleeding
    •Possible development of drug-resistant bacteria
    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe diarrhea
    •Damage to condoms and diaphragms

  • Prices with our coupons for Keflex vs. Clindesse

    Learn more about Cephalexin
    Learn more about Clindamycin vaginal cream

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