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Compare Cefdinir vs. Amoxicillin

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

Key takeaways

Cefdinir (Omnicef) and amoxicillin (Amoxil) are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, such as sinus infections, ear infections, and strep throat. However, they belong to different medication classes. Cefdinir is a cephalosporin antibiotic, while amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic. Cefdinir is available as capsules and an oral suspension, and it can be taken once or twice a day. Amoxicillin comes in tablets, capsules, a liquid, and chewable tablets, and it may need to be taken up to three times a day. Both medications can cause side effects like diarrhea and rash, but amoxicillin can also cause vomiting and taste changes. Both medications can interact with warfarin, while Cefdinir has specific interactions with antacids and iron supplements. Additionally, cefdinir is sometimes used off-label for urinary tract infections (UTIs), whereas amoxicillin is FDA-approved for UTIs but not always the first choice. Both medications require a prescription and should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider.

  • Cefdinir
    Amoxicillin (Amoxil)
  • Cefdinir
    Amoxicillin (Amoxil)

  • Summary of Cefdinir vs. Amoxicillin

    Summary for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Cefdinir, also known by its brand name Omnicef, is a cephalosporin antibiotic that can treat several types of bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, sinus infections, and ear infections. Although the brand name is no longer available, its generic can still be prescribed for adults and children. Cefdinir comes as capsules and a suspension that are taken once or twice per day by mouth. Side effects can include diarrhea, nausea, and rash.

    Summary for Penicillin antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Amoxicillin (Amoxil) is a penicillin antibiotic that's used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, such as sinus infections, ear infections, strep throat, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). It's available as oral pills, a chewable tablet, and an oral liquid. Amoxicillin (Amoxil) is well-tolerated, but possible side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, and rash.

  • Indications of Cefdinir vs. Amoxicillin

    Indications for
    •Pneumonia
    •Lung infections related to long-term bronchitis
    •Sinus infections
    •Strep throat
    •Tonsil infections
    •Skin infections
    •Ear infections - for children only
    Indications for
    •Upper respiratory tract infections (ear, nose, and throat infections)
    •Lower respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis)
    •Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
    •Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)
    •Helicobacter pylori infection (adults only)

  • Pros and Cons of Cefdinir vs. Amoxicillin

    Pros and Const for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Pros
    •Available as a capsule and oral suspension
    •Can be used for children and adults
    •Might be able to take once per day, depending on the infection
    •Can keep oral suspension at room temperature for up to 10 days
    Cons
    •Might not be able to take this antibiotic if you've had a severe allergic reaction to penicillins or other cephalosporin antibiotics
    •Must separate when you take cefdinir and antacids or iron supplements by at least 2 hours
    •Oral suspension contains sugar, so people with diabetes might have higher blood sugar levels while they're taking the antibiotic
    •Not recommended for the cold or flu, since they're not caused by a bacterial infection
    Pros and Const for Penicillin antibiotic
    Pros
    •Works well to treat many different bacterial infections
    •Can use for adults and children
    •Available in many forms (e.g., oral tablet, chewable tablet, capsule, liquid)
    •Liquid form comes in many different flavors to make it taste better
    Cons
    •Might need to take up to three times per day
    •Can cause stomach side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
    •Not the best option if you have severe kidney problems
    •Might not be able to take this medication if you've had a severe allergy to penicillin

  • Common Side Effects of Cefdinir vs. Amoxicillin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (up to 15%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Rash

  • Warnings of Cefdinir vs. Amoxicillin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
    •Possible development of drug-resistant bacteria
    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic and skin reactions
    •Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
    •Development of drug-resistant bacteria

  • Prices with our coupons for Cefdinir vs. Amoxicillin

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    Learn more about Amoxicillin

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