Cephalexin is a member of a class of drugs calledcephalosporins.
They have various similarities and differences.
This article will provide information about both antibiotics.
Getty Images /MediaNews Group/Reading Eagle via Getty Images/ Contributor
Getty Images /MediaNews Group/Reading Eagle via Getty Images/ Contributor
What Is Cephalexin and How Does It Work?
Cephalexin is classified as a cephalosporin antibiotic.
It is afirst-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, meaning that it was among the first cephalosporins developed.
It is also part of a larger class known asbeta-lactam antibiotics.
Beta-lactam antibiotics include all cephalosporin drugs as well as all penicillin drugs, including amoxicillin.
Cephalexin works by preventing certain types of bacteria from building their cell walls.
This causes the bacteria to die and prevents the infection from growing and spreading.
Cephalexin is available as an oral capsule, oral tablet, and oral suspension (liquid).
Only generic cephalexin is available.
Cephalexin is only for treating certain types of bacterial infections.
You will not find cephalexin as an ingredient in any other types of medication that are not antibiotics.
Amoxicillin is classified as a penicillin antibiotic.
Like cephalexin, amoxicillin is also part of the larger class of beta-lactam antibiotics.
Amoxicillin works by preventing bacteria from building their cell wall.
This causes the bacteria to die and prevents bacteria from growing and spreading.
Amoxicillin is taken by adults, children, and infants.
Dosing Guidelines
General dosing guidelines for cephalexin and amoxicillin are as follows.
A dose of cephalexin lasts for about six to eight hours in the body.
Amoxicillin also starts working quickly, reaching its highest levels in the body within an hour or two.
A dose of amoxicillin lasts in the body for about five to eight hours.
However, this does not mean you could stop taking the medicine.
You must finish a course of antibiotics to ensure the infection clears and to prevent bacteria from becoming resistant.
If bacteria become resistant to an antibiotic, the antibiotic will not work the next time you need it.
Side Effects
Each medication may have side effects.
Call 911 if your symptoms feel life-threatening or you think you have a medical emergency.
Call your healthcare provider if you have any unusual problems while taking your medication.
Other drug interactions may occur with cephalexin or amoxicillin.
Consult your healthcare provider for more information about drug interactions and how they may affect you.
Which One Is Better for Me?
The best medication for you’re able to only be determined by your healthcare provider.
Also, tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding/chestfeeding.
Your healthcare provider can examine you, order necessary tests, and prescribe the appropriate antibiotic for you.
Preventing Bacterial Infections
Various types of bacteria cause bacterial infections.
Some common examples of bacteria includeStaphylococcus,Streptococcus, andE.
They are available in various formulations such as pills and liquids that are taken by mouth.
Cephalexin and amoxicillin have some things in common but some differences as well.
Consult your healthcare provider for more information about these medications.
Cephalexin liquid is stored in the refrigerator.
If you or your child is prescribed the liquid formulation, ask your pharmacist about specific storage requirements.
Keep all medications out of sight and out of reach of children and pets.
Cephalexin and amoxicillin fall into the category of beta-lactam antibiotics.
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