Keftab (Cephalexin) vs. Other Antibiotics: Benefits, Side Effects & When to Choose

When a doctor prescribes an oral antibiotic, the brand name on the label often feels like a mystery. Keftab (Cephalexin) is a widely‑used penicillin‑derived antibiotic, but is it always the best pick? Below we compare Keftab with several common alternatives, breaking down how they work, when they’re most effective, and what trade‑offs you should expect.

What is Keftab (Cephalexin)?

Keftab is the brand name for Cephalexin, a first‑generation cephalosporin that targets a broad range of gram‑positive bacteria and some gram‑negative strains. It’s typically prescribed for skin infections, urinary tract infections, and uncomplicated respiratory infections. The usual adult dose is 250 mg to 1 g every 6‑12 hours, depending on severity.

Common Alternatives to Keftab

While Cephalexin works well for many infections, doctors often consider other options based on the suspected pathogen, patient allergies, and local resistance patterns.

• Amoxicillin is a broad‑spectrum penicillin that covers many of the same organisms as Cephalexin but also hits certain gram‑negative bacteria like H. influenzae.
• Dicloxacillin is a penicillinase‑resistant penicillin used when Staphylococcus aureus is suspected, especially in skin and soft‑tissue infections.
• Cefadroxil is a second‑generation cephalosporin with a slightly broader gram‑negative coverage than Cephalexin.
• Cefuroxime is a second‑generation oral cephalosporin often chosen for sinusitis and bronchitis because it reaches higher lung concentrations.
• Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic that targets anaerobes and certain resistant Staphylococcus strains, useful for bite wounds.
• Penicillin V is the classic narrow‑spectrum penicillin, best for infections caused by susceptible streptococci.

Key Decision Criteria

Choosing the right antibiotic isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all decision. Below are the most common factors doctors weigh.

1. Spectrum of activity - Does the drug cover the likely bacteria?
2. Dosage convenience - How many pills per day?
3. Side‑effect profile - Risk of GI upset, C. difficile, allergic reactions?
4. Allergy considerations - Is the patient allergic to penicillins or cephalosporins?
5. Cost & insurance coverage - Brand vs. generic pricing.
6. Local resistance data - Are there high rates of resistance to the drug in the area?

Side‑Effect Comparison

All antibiotics can cause adverse reactions, but the frequency and severity differ.

• Cephalexin typically causes mild gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea) in about 5‑10 % of patients.
• Amoxicillin shares a similar GI profile but has a slightly higher rate of rash in penicillin‑allergic individuals.
• Dicloxacillin can lead to elevated liver enzymes in rare cases.
• Cefadroxil may cause a transient rise in liver enzymes and occasional dizziness.
• Cefuroxime has a slightly higher incidence of taste alteration.
• Clindamycin carries the highest risk of Clostridioides difficile infection, especially with prolonged courses.

Cost Overview (U.S. 2025 average)

Pricing varies by insurance, pharmacy, and whether a brand name or generic is used.

When to Choose Keftab (Cephalexin) Over Alternatives

If you’re dealing with a straightforward skin infection like impetigo, cellulitis, or a mild urinary tract infection, Cephalexin often wins because:

• It provides excellent coverage against Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus (non‑MRSA).
• The dosing schedule (twice or three times daily) fits most patients’ routines.
• Side‑effects are generally mild and it’s inexpensive.

However, avoid Cephalexin when:

• The patient has a documented severe penicillin or cephalosporin allergy - cross‑reactivity can be up to 10 %.
• MRSA is suspected; clindamycin or linezolid would be better choices.
• You're treating an infection known for high beta‑lactamase production, such as certain ENT infections; cefuroxime or amoxicillin‑clavulanate may be more reliable.

Practical Tips for Patients

Regardless of which antibiotic you end up with, these habits improve outcomes:

1. Take the full prescribed course, even if symptoms improve early. Stopping too soon can select resistant bacteria.
2. Space doses evenly - if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one.
3. Take Cephalexin with food if you experience stomach upset; many patients report better tolerance.
4. Stay hydrated; it helps the kidneys clear the drug and reduces the risk of crystalluria.
5. Watch for rash, especially if you have a history of drug allergies. Seek medical help if the rash spreads or you develop difficulty breathing.

How Resistance Patterns Influence Choice

Antibiotic resistance evolves quickly. In 2024 the CDC reported a 30 % increase in community‑acquired Staphylococcus aureus resistant to first‑generation cephalosporins in the Southern United States. That means clinicians in Houston or Dallas may prefer Dicloxacillin or Clindamycin for skin infections, whereas physicians in the Pacific Northwest might still feel comfortable with Cephalexin.

Check local antibiograms - many hospital labs publish an annual summary of which organisms are sensitive to which drugs. If you’re getting a prescription from a tele‑health service, ask whether they considered local resistance data.

Summary of Strengths & Weaknesses

Below is a quick reference you can keep on your phone or print out.

• Keftab (Cephalexin) - Strong against common skin & urinary pathogens, cheap, twice‑daily dosing; weak against MRSA, beta‑lactamase producers.
• Amoxicillin - Broader gram‑negative coverage, good for ear & throat infections; limited for Staph, allergy risk.
• Dicloxacillin - Penicillinase‑resistant, ideal for suspected Staph aureus; more frequent dosing.
• Cefadroxil - Slightly broader spectrum, useful for ear infections; higher cost.
• Cefuroxime - Excellent lung penetration, good for sinusitis; twice‑daily dosing, pricier.
• Clindamycin - Covers anaerobes & MRSA, important for bite wounds; highest C. difficile risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the right antibiotic is a balance of science, cost, and personal health factors. By understanding how Keftab (Cephalexin) stacks up against its peers, you can have a more informed conversation with your prescriber and feel confident about the treatment plan.