Compare Vantin vs. Keflex

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

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Vantin (cefpodoxime)

Prescription only

Keflex (cephalexin)

Prescription only
Treats bacterial infections.

Vantin (cefpodoxime) is good for treating many bacterial infections and it works best if you take the full course without stopping.

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
Upsides
  • Used to treat many types of bacterial infections.
  • Available in two different forms: tablet and liquid suspension.
  • People usually have few side effects when taking it.
  • Vantin (cefpodoxime) is available as a generic.
  • The suspension may be taken with or without food.
  • 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.
Downsides
  • If you're on blood thinners, let your doctor know. Vantin (cefpodoxime) can interact with your medications and make you more likely to bleed.
  • You can't take antacids within 2 hours of this drug.
  • Vantin (cefpodoxime) can affect certain lab tests, let all your healthcare providers know that you're taking Vantin (cefpodoxime).
  • 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.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Liquid
  • Pill
  • Liquid
Price
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Reviews
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686 reviews so far
64%
saidit'sworth it
48%
saiditworked well
14%
saidit'sa big hassle

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Side effects
5possible side effects
  • Diarrhea
    7%
  • Nausea
    3%
  • Diaper rash/fungal skin rash
    2%
  • Other skin rashes
    2%
  • Vomiting
    2%
See more detailed side effects
The Keflex (cephalexin) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
  • Diarrhea
  • Allergic reaction
    • Allergy to antibiotics
  • New infection
    • Taking Vantin (cefpodoxime) for a long time
  • Kidney problems
    • Kidney problems
    • Kidney disease
    • Hemodialysis
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • 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