Keflex, Keftab, and More: What is another for cephalexin?

October 12, 2025 •

3 min read

With over 5 million prescriptions filled in the U.S. in 2019, cephalexin is one of the most widely used antibiotics. When patients search for information, a common question arises: What is another for cephalexin? The most prominent and recognizable alternative is the brand name Keflex.

Quick Summary

The antibiotic cephalexin is also known by several brand names, most commonly Keflex, and sometimes Keftab. The spelling 'cefalexin' is also used internationally. These variations all refer to the same first-generation cephalosporin medication used for various bacterial infections.

Key Points

Keflex is the primary alternative name: The most common brand name for cephalexin, often used interchangeably with the generic name.
Generic vs. Brand: Generic cephalexin contains the same active ingredient as brand-name versions like Keflex and is considered equally safe and effective.
International Spelling: The spelling 'cefalexin' is the internationally recognized name for the same medication.
First-generation cephalosporin: Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that works by disrupting the bacterial cell wall.
Alternatives Exist: If allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics like clindamycin or doxycycline may be safer alternatives to cephalexin.
Always Consult a Doctor: Proper antibiotic selection and use are crucial for effective treatment and preventing resistance, so always follow a healthcare provider's guidance.

Understanding the Name: Cephalexin vs. Brand Names

Cephalexin is the generic name for an antibiotic belonging to the first-generation cephalosporin class. The pharmaceutical industry uses both generic and brand names for medications. The generic name refers to the active chemical ingredient, while a brand name is a proprietary name given by the manufacturer. While the patent on a brand-name drug is active, only the original company can market it under that name. Once the patent expires, other companies can produce generic versions containing the identical active ingredient. In the case of this medication, cephalexin is the active ingredient, making all generic versions and brand names medically equivalent.

The most common name: Keflex

For many years, the most well-known brand name for this medication was Keflex. Even though the brand-name product has since been discontinued, healthcare providers and patients still widely refer to the generic cephalexin as Keflex. For all practical purposes, Keflex and cephalexin are interchangeable terms for the same drug.

Other brand names and formulations

Less commonly, other brand names for cephalexin have also been available, such as Keftab, Biocef, and Daxbia. A specific formulation known as Keftab refers to cephalexin hydrochloride, a different salt form than the monohydrate version commonly associated with Keflex, but they are considered medically equivalent.

The international spelling: Cefalexin

Another point of potential confusion is the spelling. The World Health Organization's International Nonproprietary Name (INN) for the drug is cefalexin. This spelling is used in many countries, and it refers to the exact same medication as cephalexin.

Therapeutic uses of cephalexin

Cephalexin is prescribed to treat a broad range of bacterial infections. It works by interfering with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, which causes the bacteria to die. It is not effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu. Common applications include:

Skin and soft tissue infections: Including cellulitis and impetigo.
Respiratory tract infections: Such as bacterial pneumonia and pharyngitis (strep throat).
Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Including uncomplicated cystitis and prostatitis.
Ear infections: Specifically, otitis media.
Bone and joint infections: Cases caused by susceptible bacteria.

Alternatives to Cephalexin

While cephalexin is a standard treatment for many conditions, other antibiotics are available, especially if a patient has an allergy or if a different bacterial strain is suspected. Alternatives belong to different drug classes and work differently to combat infection. Some examples include:

Amoxicillin/Clavulanate (Augmentin): A combination of a penicillin and a beta-lactamase inhibitor, offering a broader spectrum of coverage.
Clindamycin (Cleocin): A lincosamide antibiotic used for various infections, including serious ones, especially for patients with a penicillin allergy.
Doxycycline: A tetracycline antibiotic effective against a range of infections, including skin infections.
Erythromycin: A macrolide antibiotic that can be an alternative for those with penicillin allergies.

Comparison Table: Cephalexin vs. Common Alternatives


Feature	Cephalexin (Keflex)	Amoxicillin/Clavulanate (Augmentin)	Clindamycin (Cleocin)
Drug Class	First-generation Cephalosporin	Penicillin Combination	Lincosamide
Mechanism of Action	Inhibits cell wall synthesis	Inhibits cell wall synthesis and prevents resistance	Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis
Common Uses	UTIs, skin, respiratory, ear, bone infections	Broader spectrum, sinusitis, UTIs, pneumonia	Skin infections, more serious infections, penicillin allergy alternative
Penicillin Allergy	Possible cross-reactivity, but may be safe for mild allergies	Should be avoided	Typically safe for penicillin-allergic patients
Common Side Effects	Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting	Diarrhea, nausea, rash	Diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset

Conclusion

When asking "What is another for cephalexin?", the most accurate and common answer is Keflex, its former brand name. Additional brand names include Keftab and others that may have been marketed previously. It is also important to recognize that cefalexin is merely an alternate spelling for the same medication. For patients, understanding these naming conventions can help reduce confusion and ensure they are taking the correct and intended medication. However, always consult a healthcare professional regarding any questions about a prescribed antibiotic, as dosage, duration, and potential alternatives are critical factors for effective and safe treatment. You can find more comprehensive drug information and comparisons on reputable medical websites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Keflex and cephalexin are the same medication. Keflex was the brand name, while cephalexin is the generic name for the active ingredient. Generic versions are medically equivalent and often less expensive.

Keftab is another brand name for cephalexin, specifically a hydrochloride formulation. Like Keflex, it is a form of the same antibiotic and is medically equivalent to other cephalexin products.

'Cefalexin' is the International Nonproprietary Name (INN) and the standard spelling in many countries, such as Australia. It refers to the exact same drug as 'cephalexin'.

Cephalexin treats various bacterial infections, including those of the skin, respiratory tract, urinary tract, ears, and bones.

If you have a penicillin allergy, you should inform your doctor. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin, and there is a chance of cross-reactivity, especially with first-generation cephalosporins. Your doctor will determine if it is a safe option.

Common alternatives include other antibiotic classes such as macrolides (e.g., erythromycin), tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline), and lincosamides (e.g., clindamycin). The best alternative depends on the type of infection and patient-specific factors.

Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, fatigue, and dizziness. Contact a healthcare provider if side effects are severe or persistent.