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Augmentin vs Keflex
Introduction
In the case of bacterial infections, certain drugs that hinder the growth or kill bacteria can be pivotal in managing symptoms and hastening recovery. Augmentin and Keflex are two such antibiotics commonly prescribed for various types of bacterial infections. Both impact different aspects of bacterial cell growth, but both have bactericidal effects in patients with infections. Augmentin is a combination antibiotic consisting of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium; it works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls while also protecting against bacteria that produce beta-lactamase enzymes which could otherwise render amoxicillin ineffective. On the other hand, Keflex belongs to a class called cephalosporins – specifically being a first-generation cephalosporin – primarily affecting bacteria by interfering with their ability to form cell walls, thus causing them to burst due to osmotic pressure.
What is Augmentin?
Amoxicillin/clavulanate (the generic name for Augmentin) was a significant step forward from the first generation of beta-lactam antibiotics, which includes cephalexin (the generic name for Keflex). Amoxicillin/clavulanate was first approved by the FDA in 1984. Augmentin works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, effectively causing bacteria to burst and die. It is prescribed for the treatment of various types of infections, such as respiratory tract infections and skin infections. Augmentin combines amoxicillin with clavulanic acid, an inhibitor that prevents bacteria from breaking down the antibiotic, resulting in a broader spectrum of activity compared to other antibiotics like Keflex that do not contain this additive component.
What conditions is Augmentin approved to treat?
Augmentin is approved for the treatment of various bacterial infections, including:
- Sinusitis
- Lower respiratory tract infections
- Ear infections (otitis media)
- Skin and skin structure infections
- Urinary tract infections
In addition to these, it can also be used in combination with other drugs to treat stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori.
How does Augmentin help with these illnesses?
Augmentin, a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, works to combat bacterial infections by inhibiting the synthesis of their cell walls. This is achieved through blocking an enzyme (transpeptidase) that bacteria use to construct these walls. The addition of clavulanic acid in Augmentin helps prevent resistance from certain bacteria which can produce beta-lactamase, an enzyme capable of breaking down amoxicillin before it has a chance to take effect.
Keflex, on the other hand, contains cephalexin as its active ingredient and also targets bacterial cell wall synthesis but does not contain any similar component like clavulanic acid. Therefore, Keflex may be less effective against some types of bacteria that can resist its effects using beta-lactamase.
Both antibiotics have broad-spectrum activity meaning they are designed to act against a wide range of different bacterial species. However, because Augmentin includes the beta-lactamase inhibitor (clavulanic acid), it can be more effective in treating infections caused by bacteria resistant to other penicillins or cephalosporins.
What is Keflex?
Keflex is a brand name for cephalexin, which is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by disrupting the formation of bacterial cell walls, thus killing the bacteria and treating the infection. Keflex was first approved by the FDA in 1971. As cephalexin doesn't belong to penicillin-class antibiotics like Augmentin (which combines amoxicillin and clavulanate), it does not inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis in the same way that Augmentin does. This difference in action means its side-effect profile may vary from that of penicillins; specifically, it can be better tolerated with less risk of gastrointestinal upset or diarrhea - common adverse effects with augmentin use. The effectiveness on gram-positive cocci makes Keflex beneficial for treatment of skin infections, respiratory tract infections, otitis media and urinary tract infections particularly for patients who do not respond well or have allergies to "typical" penicillin-class antibiotics such as Augmentin.
What conditions is Keflex approved to treat?
Keflex, a first-generation cephalosporin, has been approved by the FDA to treat common bacterial infections such as:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Upper respiratory tract infections including sinusitis and otitis media.
How does Keflex help with these illnesses?
Cephalexin, commonly known as Keflex, is a type of antibiotic that belongs to the cephalosporin class. These antibiotics work by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis resulting in damage and eventual destruction of the bacteria, effectively treating many types of infections. Similar to Augmentin (which is an amalgamation of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid), Keflex is often prescribed for its broad-spectrum activity against a wide variety of bacteria. However, unlike Augmentin which can tackle both Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria thanks to its combination formula, Keflex primarily targets Gram-positive strains making it particularly effective against skin infections or respiratory tract infections caused by these specific types. Since it does not have clavulanic acid like Augmentin does (an inhibitor that combats certain resistant types), it might be less effective when dealing with antibiotic-resistant strains but provides a solid alternative for patients who may experience side effects from penicillins or are allergic to them.
How effective are both Augmentin and Keflex?
Both amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (Augmentin) and cephalexin (Keflex) are well-established antibiotics, with both being FDA-approved in the 1970s. They act on different types of bacteria and as such may be prescribed under distinct circumstances. The efficacy of Augmentin and Keflex for treating bacterial infections was directly studied in a number of clinical trials, showcasing similar potency against certain pathogens. However, none of the studied contexts demonstrated notable differences between patients receiving Augmentin or Keflex.
A review conducted in 2011 on Augmentin demonstrated its effectiveness from the first days of treatment, provided that it is taken exactly as directed by a healthcare provider. Its side effect profile is generally favorable compared to many other antibiotics, manifesting primarily as digestive system disturbances which are usually mild and transient. Furthermore, since it combines two active ingredients – amoxicillin (a penicillin derivative) and clavulanic acid (which inhibits beta-lactamase enzymes produced by some resistant bacteria), Augmentin has an extended spectrum of activity.
On the other hand, a 2007 meta-analysis indicated that Keflex remains effective against susceptible strains of Staphylococcus aureus - one common cause skin infections - while resistance rates continue to increase among this type of bacterium for other commonly used antimicrobials like methicillin. Nevertheless, given its narrower spectrum compared to newer options like Augmentin; it's often considered after these agents when dealing with complex cases or suspected polymicrobial infections where broader coverage may be required.
At what dose is Augmentin typically prescribed?
Oral dosages of Augmentin can vary, but typically range from 250-875 mg every 8-12 hours. For most bacterial infections, a dosage of 500 mg every 12 hours or 250 mg every 8 hours is sufficient in adults. Children may start on a lower dose based on their weight and infection severity. In either population, the dosage can be adjusted after a few days if there is no improvement. The maximum daily dose for adults should not exceed 1750mg/day in divided doses.
Keflex oral dosages also differ depending on the type and severity of infection but generally lie within the range of 250–1000 mg taken every six hours for adults. In children, initial treatment often starts at a dose calculated by body weight - usually around 25–50 mg/kg per day divided into equal doses given four times throughout the day. It's important to note that Keflex’s maximum daily dose shouldn't go beyond 4000mg/day for severe infections in adult patients.
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At what dose is Keflex typically prescribed?
Keflex treatment is typically initiated with a dosage of 250-500 mg every 6 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours, depending on the severity and type of infection. For more serious or severe infections, this dose can be increased to a maximum of 4 g/day (4000 mg), divided into four doses spaced six hours apart. If after several days there's no response to the initial dosage, your healthcare provider may opt to increase it until symptoms improve. Like any antibiotic regimen, Keflex should be taken exactly as prescribed and for the full duration indicated by your doctor even if symptoms subside earlier in order to prevent bacterial resistance.
What are the most common side effects for Augmentin?
Common side effects of Augmentin and Keflex may include:
- Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
- Indigestion, abdominal pain or discomfort (dyspepsia)
- Skin rash, itching or hives
- Thrush (white patches in the mouth due to an overgrowth of a yeast fungus)
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Fatigue (general weakness)
Please note that while these drugs are generally well tolerated by most individuals, if you experience any severe reactions such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe skin rashes or peeling, jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes), unusually dark urine or persistent nausea/vomiting - seek immediate medical attention.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Augmentin?
While both Augmentin and Keflex are antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, they do have different side effects. Here's what you need to know about potential serious side effects of these medications:
- Severe allergic reactions can occur with either drug, leading to symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat.
- With Augmentin, there may be signs of liver problems including persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin.
- For Keflex users - although rare - a severe intestinal condition (Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea) may develop with use. Symptoms include persistent diarrhea; abdominal or stomach pain/cramping; blood/mucus in the stool.
- Serious skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome can occur with either medication. Look out for symptoms such as sore throat fever burning eyes skin pain red or purple skin rash blistering peeling
- Both drugs can cause unusual bleeding or bruising due to decreased blood platelets.
If you experience any of these symptoms while taking either Augmentin or Keflex contact your healthcare provider immediately.
What are the most common side effects for Keflex?
Keflex, while being an effective antibiotic for treating various bacterial infections, does have potential side effects that patients should be aware of:
- Upset stomach or diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Feeling tired
- Joint pain
- Genital or anal itching
- Nausea and vomiting can occur too.
While less common, some individuals may experience a severe intestinal condition due to resistant bacteria. This condition might not manifest until weeks after the treatment has stopped. If you observe persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, blood/mucus in your stool don't use anti-diarrhea products or narcotic pain medications as these symptoms could worsen.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Keflex?
While Keflex is generally considered safe, it can sometimes cause serious side effects. These may include:
- Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching or hives; swelling of the face, lips or tongue
- Breathing problems
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Signs of liver damage - yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, persistent nausea/vomiting/loss of appetite
- Severe stomach/abdominal pain
- Persistent diarrhea (may contain blood/mucus)
If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Keflex, immediately contact your healthcare provider for advice. It's also essential to remember that antibiotic treatments like Keflex should always be taken for the full prescribed course to prevent bacterial resistance and recurrence.
Contraindications for Augmentin and Keflex?
Both Augmentin and Keflex, similar to most other antibiotics, can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. If you notice your symptoms worsening or any signs of an allergic reaction like rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness or trouble breathing, please seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Augmentin nor Keflex should be taken if you are taking methotrexate without consulting with your doctor first; certain antibiotics may increase the toxicity of methotrexate. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently using; some drugs will require a period to clear from the system in order to prevent dangerous interactions with Augmentin and Keflex.
Remember that overuse or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness. So it is very important not only take these medicines under proper prescription but also complete the full course prescribed by your physician even if symptoms disappear after a few days.
How much do Augmentin and Keflex cost?
For the brand name versions of these antibiotics:
- The price of 20 tablets of Augmentin (875-125 mg) averages around $120, which works out to roughly $6/day depending on your dose.
- The cost for 28 capsules of Keflex (500 mg) is about $90, working out to approximately $3.21/day.
Thus, if you are in need for a longer duration treatment with Augmentin (i.e., two weeks or more), then branded Keflex could be a more economical option. It's important to remember that cost should not be the primary consideration when determining which antibiotic is right for you; effectiveness against specific bacteria and patient tolerance must also be considered.
As far as generic versions go:
- Amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium (generic form of Augmentin) costs between $0.40 and $1 per day based on standard doses.
- Cephalexin monohydrate, the generic version of Keflex, typically costs between $0.30 and $0.70 per day at common dosages.
Overall, both drugs have significantly lower-priced alternatives in their generic forms compared to branded options.
Popularity of Augmentin and Keflex
Augmentin, also known as Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, and Keflex (Cephalexin) are both antibiotics used to treat a variety of bacterial infections.
In 2020, about 13 million people in the US were prescribed Augmentin or its generic versions. This accounted for just over 15% of all antibiotic prescriptions in the US that year. Over the past decade, its usage has remained relatively steady.
On the other hand, Cephalexin was prescribed to approximately 8 million individuals in the United States during 2020. It represents nearly about 10% of cephalosporin class antibiotic prescriptions and about 5% of overall antibiotic prescriptions within that same period. The prevalence of Cephalexin use has been fairly constant over recent years.
Conclusion
Both Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) and Keflex (cephalexin) have a long-standing track record in treating bacterial infections, backed by numerous clinical studies indicating their effectiveness. They are both antibiotics but belong to different classes with distinct mechanisms of action; Augmentin is an amoxicillin combined with clavulanic acid from the penicillin class, while Keflex belongs to the cephalosporins.
Augmentin is typically reserved for more severe or resistant infections due to its broad-spectrum efficacy against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It's also used when there's a risk of resistance because the addition of clavulanic acid helps prevent bacteria from becoming resistant to amoxicillin.
On the other hand, Keflex is most commonly prescribed for skin infections, urinary tract infections, and other mild-to-moderate common bacterial ailments. Both drugs come in generic forms which can be cost-effective for patients paying out-of-pocket.
The side effect profiles are similar between these two antibiotics; however gastrointestinal issues tend to be more pronounced with Augmentin compared to Keflex. Like all antibiotics, it’s important that patients complete their full course treatment even if they begin feeling better before finishing all medication as early discontinuation may lead to antibiotic resistance.