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Compare Keflex vs. Epiduo

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

Key takeaways

Cephalexin (generic name: cephalexin) and Epiduo (generic name: adapalene/benzoyl peroxide) are both prescription medications, but they treat different conditions and work in different ways. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic taken orally to treat various bacterial infections like UTIs, ear infections, and skin infections. It works by killing bacteria and is available in generic forms such as capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. On the other hand, Epiduo is a topical gel used to treat acne. It combines adapalene, a retinoid that reduces inflammation and prevents pimples, with benzoyl peroxide, an antibiotic that kills acne-causing bacteria. Epiduo can cause dry skin and sun sensitivity, and it may take up to 12 weeks to see full results. Unlike cephalexin, Epiduo is available in a generic form and is applied directly to the skin once a day.

  • Cephalexin
    Epiduo (adapalene / benzoyl peroxide)
  • Cephalexin
    Epiduo (adapalene / benzoyl peroxide)

  • Summary of Keflex vs. Epiduo

    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 Retinoid / Topical antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Epiduo (adapalene / benzoyl peroxide) is a topical gel that contains two active ingredients: adapalene (a retinoid) and benzoyl peroxide (an antiseptic). It's FDA approved to treat acne (pimples) in adults and children. The gel is typically applied to the skin once a day. Side effects aren't common, but can include dry skin, skin irritation, and skin burning. The medication is available as a generic and under two brand names: Epiduo and Epiduo Forte.

  • Indications of Keflex vs. Epiduo

    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
    •Acne in
    •People 9 years and older - Epiduo
    •People 12 years and older - Epiduo Forte

  • Pros and Cons of Keflex vs. Epiduo

    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 Retinoid / Topical antibiotic
    Pros
    •Combination of two medications in a single product
    •Only needs to be applied once a day
    •Easy to apply
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Can make your skin more sensitive to the sunlight
    •Can bleach clothing and bed sheets
    •Can make skin dry or irritated
    •Your skin might look worse before it starts looking better

  • Common Side Effects of Keflex vs. Epiduo

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

    Epiduo:

    •Dry skin (7%)
    •Rash (3%)

    Epiduo Forte:

    •Skin irritation (4%)

  • Warnings of Keflex vs. Epiduo

    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
    •Sunburn
    •Skin irritation

  • Prices with our coupons for Keflex vs. Epiduo

    Learn more about Cephalexin
    Learn more about Epiduo

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