Compare Keflex vs. Cleocin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

ADVERTISEMENT

Keflex (cephalexin)

Prescription only

Cleocin (clindamycin)

Prescription only
Treats bacterial infections.

Keflex (cephalexin) is good for treating many bacterial infections, and is available as a generic.

●●●●●
3.7/ 5 average rating with 686 reviewsforKeflex
Treats acne.

Cleocin (clindamycin) is proven to be effective at treating acne when combined with another acne medicine and is available in a variety of formulations.

●●●●●
3.5/ 5 average rating with 115 reviewsforCleocin
Upsides
  • Available in generic.
  • Available in different forms: tablet, capsule, and suspension.
  • Used to treat many types of bacterial infections.
  • Can be taken with or without food.
  • Generally few side effects compared with other antibiotics.
  • Available in generic.
  • Comes in different formulations (gel, solution, lotion, foam) to fit your preferences.
  • Works well for the kind of acne that causes large, red, and swollen pimples.
Downsides
  • Can cause diarrhea.
  • You may need to take Keflex (cephalexin) 2 to 4 times a day, which can be hard to remember.
  • If you're allergic to penicillins or other antibiotics, you might not be able to take this medicine.
  • Foam formulation can cause headaches.
  • You will likely have to use another acne medicine along with Cleocin (clindamycin) since it is not as effective by itself.
  • Is only preferred for mild to moderate acne. If you have severe acne your doctor will most likely prescribe an oral medication.
  • If you only have comedonal acne (small skin-colored bumps on the skin) without any red, swollen pimples, your doctor may give you an alternative medicine.
ADVERTISEMENT
Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Liquid
  • Gel
  • Foam
  • Solution
  • Lotion
Price
Lowest price
$9.04
Find instant savings near you
Lowest price
$124.00
Find instant savings near you
Want to save even more money?
Sign up now for a 30-day trial and save up to 95% at CVS, Kroger, Albertsons, and other pharmacies.
Learn more
Reviews
686 reviews so far
64%
saidit'sworth it
48%
saiditworked well
14%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Keflex (cephalexin)?

Leave a review
115 reviews so far
57%
saidit'sworth it
43%
saiditworked well
19%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Cleocin (clindamycin)?

Leave a review
Side effects
The Keflex (cephalexin) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
9possible side effects
  • Dryness
    23%
  • Oiliness/Oily skin
    18%
  • Redness
    16%
  • Burning
    11%
  • Burning/Itching
    11%
  • Peeling
    11%
  • Itching
    11%
  • Burning where applied
    6%
  • Headache
    3%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Diarrhea
  • New infections while taking Keflex (cephalexin)
    • Weakened immune system
    • Not taking Keflex (cephalexin) correctly
  • Allergic reaction
    • History of penicillin or cephalosporin allergies
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Skin irritation
    • Using other medicines or products that irritate the skin
    • Eczema
    • Extreme temperatures (hot or cold)
  • Severe diarrhea and stomach cramps
    • Using Cleocin (clindamycin) for a long time
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Keflex (cephalexin)
Learn more about Cleocin (clindamycin)