Cefaclor is a second-generation antibiotic used for ear, sinus, and throat infections. Compare it with amoxicillin, cephalexin, and azithromycin to understand which is best for your condition, side effects, and resistance patterns.
Cefaclor vs Amoxicillin: Which Antibiotic Is Right for You?
When you’re dealing with a stubborn infection, your doctor might prescribe either cefaclor, a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used for ear, sinus, and respiratory infections. Also known as Cefaclor, it or amoxicillin, a penicillin-class antibiotic commonly used for strep throat, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections. Also known as Amoxicillin, it. Both fight bacteria, but they don’t work the same way—and knowing the difference can save you time, money, and unnecessary side effects.
Amoxicillin is one of the most prescribed antibiotics in the world. It’s cheap, effective against common bugs like Streptococcus and E. coli, and often the first choice for kids and adults with ear infections or bronchitis. But if you’ve had an allergic reaction to penicillin—even a mild rash—amoxicillin is off the table. That’s where cefaclor comes in. It’s part of the cephalosporin family, which is structurally different from penicillin. Most people with penicillin allergies can take cefaclor safely, though not everyone. Your doctor will check your history before switching. Cefaclor also tends to work better against certain resistant strains, like some strains of Haemophilus influenzae that cause sinus infections. It’s not stronger overall, but it’s more targeted in specific cases.
Side effects are similar for both: stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea. But cefaclor has a slightly higher chance of causing a yeast infection, especially in women. That’s because it knocks out more types of good bacteria in the gut and vaginal area. Amoxicillin? Less likely to trigger that. If you’ve had recurring yeast infections after antibiotics, your doctor might lean toward amoxicillin—or add an antifungal to your plan. Cost-wise, amoxicillin is usually cheaper, especially as a generic. Cefaclor can cost more, and it’s not always covered as easily by insurance. But if you’ve tried amoxicillin before and it didn’t work, cefaclor might be the next step.
Neither drug works for viral infections like colds or flu. And neither should be used without a confirmed bacterial diagnosis. Overuse of either leads to resistance, which makes future infections harder to treat. That’s why doctors are more careful now—they won’t hand out antibiotics like candy. If you’re a woman dealing with recurrent UTIs, sinus infections, or ear infections, knowing when to push for one over the other matters. It’s not about which is "better." It’s about which is right for your body, your history, and your current infection.
Below, you’ll find real comparisons, patient experiences, and clinical insights on how these two antibiotics stack up in everyday use—so you can ask smarter questions and make better choices with your care.