Cefdinir vs. Cephalexin for Skin Infection and Ear Infection: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Cefdinir (Omnicef) and cephalexin (Keflex) are both cephalosporin antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, such as ear and sinus infections. While they share this drug class, they differ in several ways. Cefdinir is available as capsules and oral suspension, typically taken once or twice a day, and is often used off-label for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children. Cephalexin, on the other hand, is available as capsules, tablets, and liquid suspension, and is taken 2 to 4 times a day. Cephalexin is FDA-approved for UTIs, unlike cefdinir. Both medications can cause side effects like diarrhea and nausea, but cephalexin can also cause vomiting and indigestion. Cefdinir has specific interactions with probenecid, antacids and iron supplements, while cephalexin can interact with metformin and probenecid. Both medications are available as generics, but cephalexin is noted to be a lower-cost option.

Cefdinir

Get free coupons

Cephalexin

Get free coupons

Summary for Cefdinir

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.

Indications for Cefdinir

Pneumonia
Lung infections related to long-term bronchitis
Sinus infections
Strep throat
Tonsil infections
Skin infections
Ear infections - for children only

Pros and Cons for Cefdinir

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

Common Side Effects for Cefdinir

Diarrhea (up to 15%)

Warnings for Cefdinir

Severe allergic reactions
Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
Possible development of drug-resistant bacteria

Summary for Cephalexin

Prescription only

Cephalexin, also commonly known as Keflex, is a cephalosporin antibiotic for people ages 1 year and older. It can treat many types of bacterial infections. This includes ear infections, skin infections like cellulitis, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and strep throat. Cephalexin comes as capsules, tablets, and a liquid suspension. It's taken by mouth 2 to 4 times per day. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cephalexin is a generic medication; its brand name Keflex is no longer available.

Indications for Cephalexin

Respiratory tract infections (e.g., strep throat)
Ear infections
Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)
Bone infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Reproductive system infections (e.g., prostatitis)

Pros and Cons for Cephalexin

Pros

Treats several common types of bacterial infections
Okay for children as young as 1 year old to take
Available as a liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills

Cons

Usually need to take a few times per day
Might not be able to take if you're allergic to penicillins or other cephalosporin antibiotics
Not recommended for the cold or flu (these are viral illnesses, not bacterial infections)