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Compare Keflex vs. Finacea

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

Key takeaways

Cephalexin (generic name) and Finacea (brand name for azelaic acid) are used to treat different conditions and belong to different medication classes. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic taken orally to treat bacterial infections like UTIs, ear infections, and sinus infections. It works by killing bacteria and is available in generic forms like capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions. On the other hand, Finacea is a topical antibacterial used to treat mild to moderate acne and rosacea. It works by stopping the growth of certain bacteria on the skin and reducing inflammation. Finacea is available as a gel, foam, and cream, with the gel being available as a lower-cost generic. While cephalexin is taken multiple times a day for a short period, Finacea must be applied twice daily for several weeks to see improvement. Cephalexin can cause side effects like nausea and diarrhea, whereas Finacea can cause skin irritation and dryness.

  • Cephalexin
    Azelaic acid (Finacea)
  • Cephalexin
    Azelaic acid (Finacea)

  • Summary of Keflex vs. Finacea

    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 Dicarboxylic acid
    Prescription only

    Azelaic acid (Finacea) is a dicarboxylic acid. It's a topical medication used to treat mild-to-moderate rosacea in adults. It works by easing skin redness and inflammation. Azelaic acid (Finacea) is applied to the skin twice daily, in the morning and evening. This medication comes as a gel and foam. Some side effects of azelaic acid (Finacea) include mild burning, tingling, and itching. It's available as brand name and generic medications.

  • Indications of Keflex vs. Finacea

    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
    •Treatment of papules and pustules in adults with mild-to-moderate rosacea

  • Pros and Cons of Keflex vs. Finacea

    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 Dicarboxylic acid
    Pros
    •Available as a gel and foam
    •Applied to the skin; convenient for people who don't like pills
    •Can wear cosmetics after it dries
    Cons
    •Might take months to see improvement
    •Can cause skin irritation, such as burning or dryness
    •Can cause skin color to lighten

  • Common Side Effects of Keflex vs. Finacea

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

    Finacea foam

    •Pain (6%)
    •Itching (3%)

    Finacea gel

    •Burning, stinging, tingling (4-16%)
    •Itching (1-6%)
    •Scaly or dry skin (1-5%)

  • Warnings of Keflex vs. Finacea

    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
    •Loss of skin color
    •Eye and mouth irritation
    •Worsening asthma (gel only)
    •Flammable (foam only)

  • Prices with our coupons for Keflex vs. Finacea

    Learn more about Cephalexin
    Learn more about Azelaic acid

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