Cephalexin vs Metronidazole

## Cephalexin vs Metronidazole: Overview

This comparison examines the pharmacological differences between **Cephalexin** and **Metronidazole**.

## Mechanism of Action

**Cephalexin**: First-generation cephalosporin inhibiting cell wall synthesis.

**Metronidazole**: Forms cytotoxic free radicals that damage bacterial DNA.

## Pharmacokinetics

**Half-life**: Cephalexin — 0.5-1.2 hours; Metronidazole — 8 hours.

## Chemical Properties

**Molecular Formula**: Cephalexin — C16H17N3O4S; Metronidazole — C6H9N3O3.

**Molecular Weight**: Cephalexin — 347.3890 g/mol; Metronidazole — 171.1540 g/mol.

**Type**: Cephalexin — Small molecule; Metronidazole — Small molecule.