Key takeaways
Cefdinir (Omnicef) and ciprofloxacin (Cipro) are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, including sinus infections. However, they belong to different medication classes. Cefdinir is a cephalosporin antibiotic, while ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. Cefdinir is available as capsules and oral suspension, and it is typically taken once or twice a day. Ciprofloxacin comes in tablets, oral solution, and injection forms, and is usually taken twice daily. Both medications are used for children and adults, while ciprofloxacin is generally reserved for more serious infections due to its potential for serious side effects, such as tendon rupture and nerve damage. Common side effects of cefdinir include diarrhea and nausea, whereas ciprofloxacin can cause nausea, diarrhea, and more severe issues like abnormal heart rhythms and liver problems. Both medications can interact with supplements like calcium and iron, but ciprofloxacin has a broader range of drug interactions.
