From the FDA Drug Label
Cephalexin, USP is a semisynthetic cephalosporin antibiotic intended for oral administration. The nucleus of cephalexin is related to that of other cephalosporin antibiotics. Each capsule contains cephalexin monohydrate equivalent to 250 mg (720 μmol) or 500 mg (1,439 μmol) of cephalexin.
Keflex is another name for cephalexin. They are the same medication, with cephalexin being the generic name and Keflex being a brand name 1.
From the Research
Yes, Keflex is the brand name for the generic medication cephalexin, and they are medically equivalent, containing the same active ingredient. Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that works by interfering with bacteria's cell wall formation, causing bacterial cell death. It's commonly prescribed to treat various bacterial infections, including those affecting the skin, respiratory tract, ears, and urinary tract. When your doctor prescribes either Keflex or cephalexin, you're receiving the same medication with identical effects, side effects, and dosing requirements. The only significant difference is that the brand name Keflex may be more expensive than generic cephalexin. Insurance companies often prefer to cover generic versions when available, so you may be dispensed generic cephalexin even if your prescription says Keflex. Both forms of the medication are equally effective at treating bacterial infections when taken as prescribed, as supported by studies such as 2, which demonstrates the efficacy of cephalexin in treating urinary tract infections.
Key Points:
- Keflex and cephalexin are medically equivalent and contain the same active ingredient.
- They are used to treat various bacterial infections, including skin, respiratory tract, ear, and urinary tract infections.
- The primary difference between Keflex and cephalexin is the cost, with brand name Keflex potentially being more expensive than generic cephalexin.
- Insurance companies may prefer to cover generic cephalexin, which could be dispensed even if the prescription is written for Keflex.
- Both Keflex and cephalexin have the same effects, side effects, and dosing requirements, making them interchangeable in terms of efficacy, as shown in studies like 3 and 2.
Evidence Summary:
The equivalence of Keflex and cephalexin is well-documented in medical literature. A study from 3 compared cephalexin hydrochloride (Keflex) with cephalexin monohydrate in treating skin and soft tissue infections, finding no significant differences in efficacy or safety. More recent research, such as 2, supports the use of cephalexin for urinary tract infections, demonstrating its effectiveness in treating such conditions. These studies, among others, reinforce the medical equivalence of Keflex and cephalexin, supporting their interchangeable use in clinical practice.