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.
