Key takeaways
Cephalexin (generic name) and Fosfomycin (brand name Monurol) are both antibiotics, but they have different uses and dosing schedules. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic that treats a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory, ear, skin, bone, urinary tract, and reproductive system infections. It is taken multiple times a day for 7 to 14 days. Fosfomycin, on the other hand, is specifically used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women and is taken as a single dose mixed with water. Cephalexin is available in generic forms like capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions, while Fosfomycin is available as a brand name or generic powder that you mix with water. Cephalexin can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, whereas Fosfomycin can cause diarrhea, nausea, and headache. Both medications can cause serious allergic reactions and a type of infectious diarrhea called *C. difficile*-related diarrhea. However, Fosfomycin is noted for its convenience of a single dose and fewer drug interactions.
