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.
