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Compare Spectracef vs. Keflex

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

Key takeaways

Cefditoren (Spectracef) and cephalexin (Keflex) are both cephalosporin antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections. They work by preventing bacteria from forming a protective covering. However, there are several differences between them. Cefditoren is a third-generation cephalosporin, while cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin. Cefditoren was used to treat lung and throat infections but is no longer available in the U.S., whereas cephalexin is still available as a generic and treats a wider range of infections, including UTIs, ear infections, and skin infections. Cephalexin is typically taken 2 to 4 times a day and is available in capsules, tablets, and liquid forms. Common side effects of cephalexin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and it can interact with medications like metformin and probenecid. In contrast, cefditoren's availability and side effects are not detailed due to its discontinuation.

  • Cefditoren (Spectracef)
    Cephalexin
  • Cefditoren (Spectracef)
    Cephalexin

  • Summary of Spectracef vs. Keflex

    Summary for Cephalosporin antibiotic

    Cefditoren (Spectracef) is a cephalosporin antibiotic that treats bacterial infections of the lungs (bronchitis and pneumonia) and throat (strep throat and tonsillitis). It is no longer available in the U.S.

    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.

  • Indications of Spectracef vs. Keflex

    Indications for
    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)

  • Pros and Cons of Spectracef vs. Keflex

    Pros and Const for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Pros
    Cons
    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)

  • Common Side Effects of Spectracef vs. Keflex

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

  • Warnings of Spectracef vs. Keflex

    Common Side Effects for
    Common Side Effects for
    •Allergic reactions
    •Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
    •Seizures
    •Higher risk of bleeding
    •Possible development of drug-resistant bacteria

  • Prices with our coupons for Spectracef vs. Keflex

    Learn more about Cefditoren
    Learn more about Cephalexin

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