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Compare Cefixime vs. Cefdinir

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

  • Cefixime (Suprax)
    Cefdinir
  • Cefixime (Suprax)
    Cefdinir

  • Summary of Cefixime vs. Cefdinir

    Summary for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Cefixime (Suprax) is a cephalosporin antibiotic that treats many types of bacterial infections, but it tends to cause diarrhea and stomach upset, and is more expensive than other similar antibiotics.

    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.

  • Indications of Cefixime vs. Cefdinir

    Indications for
    •Urinary tract infections
    •Ear infections (otitis media)
    •Throat and tonsil infections (strep throat, tonsillitis)
    •Bronchitis with bacterial infection
    •Gonorrhea
    Indications for
    •Pneumonia
    •Lung infections related to long-term bronchitis
    •Sinus infections
    •Strep throat
    •Tonsil infections
    •Skin infections
    •Ear infections - for children only

  • Pros and Cons of Cefixime vs. Cefdinir

    Pros and Const for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Pros
    •Treats many types of bacterial infections
    •May be a good choice for people who have gonorrhea and don't like getting shots
    •Available as a suspension and chewable tablet for people who cannot swallow pills
    •Can be taken once a day, which is convenient
    •Available as a generic
    Cons
    •About 30% of people who take cefixime (Suprax) experience a stomach or intestinal side effect, such as nausea and diarrhea.
    •Not recommended to be used for the cold or flu, or for bronchitis that is not bacterial
    •If you're allergic to penicillins or other cephalosporin antibiotics, you might not be able to take this medicine.
    •Though it is available as a generic, cefixime (Suprax) costs more than other antibiotics that are used for the same types of infections.
    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

  • Common Side Effects of Cefixime vs. Cefdinir

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (16%)
    •Nausea (7%)
    •Loose or frequent stools (6%)
    •Passing gas (4%)
    •Abdominal pain (3%)
    •Indigestion (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (up to 15%)

  • Warnings of Cefixime vs. Cefdinir

    Common Side Effects for
    •ALLERGIC REACTION
    •C. DIFFICILE DIARRHEA
    •KIDNEY PROBLEMS
    •HIGHER RISK OF BLEEDING
    •DRUG-RESISTANT BACTERIA
    •PHENYLKETONURIA (PKU) PROBLEMS
    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
    •Possible development of drug-resistant bacteria

  • Prices with our coupons for Cefixime vs. Cefdinir

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