Cephalexin vs Amoxicillin: Which Antibiotic Is Right for You?

When weighing Cephalexin vs amoxicillin, the choice between two frequently prescribed antibiotics for everyday infections. Also known as Cephalexin versus Amoxicillin, this comparison matters for anyone dealing with bacterial illnesses.

Both drugs fall under the umbrella of Cephalexin, a first‑generation cephalosporin that blocks bacterial cell wall synthesis and Amoxicillin, a broad‑spectrum penicillin that interferes with bacterial growth. Cephalexin belongs to the cephalosporin class, while Amoxicillin is a member of the penicillin family. The two share the goal of treating bacterial infections, yet they differ in the types of bacteria they target, typical dosing schedules, and common side‑effect profiles. For skin infections, ear infections, or simple urinary tract infections, doctors often prefer Cephalexin; for middle‑ear infections, strep throat, or pneumonia, Amoxicillin tends to be first‑line.

Understanding how each antibiotic works helps you anticipate what to expect. Cephalexin typically comes in 250 mg to 1 g tablets taken twice daily, whereas Amoxicillin is often prescribed in 250 mg to 875 mg doses three times a day. Both are generally well‑tolerated, but Cephalexin can cause mild diarrhea or a rash, and Amoxicillin may lead to nausea, a yeast infection, or a more pronounced allergic reaction in penicillin‑sensitive patients. Moreover, rising antibiotic resistance, the ability of bacteria to survive drug exposure pushes clinicians to select the narrower‑spectrum option when possible, which often means choosing Cephalexin for skin flora and Amoxicillin for streptococcal infections.

Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dive deeper into the practical side of choosing antibiotics, managing side effects, and understanding how dosage and resistance shape treatment decisions. Whether you’re a patient curious about your prescription or a caregiver looking for clear guidance, the posts that follow break down the science, safety tips, and real‑world advice you need to make an informed choice.