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Compare Ceftin vs. Cefdinir

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

Key takeaways

Cefuroxime (generic name for the discontinued brand Ceftin) and cefdinir (generic name for the discontinued brand Omnicef) are both cephalosporin antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections. They share some common uses, such as treating sinus infections, ear infections, and strep throat. However, cefdinir is not FDA-approved for urinary tract infections (UTIs), though it is sometimes used off-label for this purpose, especially in children. Cefuroxime is available as tablets and injections, while cefdinir comes in capsules and an oral suspension. Cefuroxime is typically taken every 12 hours, whereas cefdinir can be taken once or twice a day, depending on the infection. Both medications can cause side effects like diarrhea and nausea, but cefdinir has a higher reported rate of diarrhea. You should avoid certain medications with both antibiotics; for cefuroxime, avoid heartburn medications, and for cefdinir, avoid antacids and iron supplements. Both medications are generally safe during pregnancy, but you should discuss with your healthcare provider.

  • Cefuroxime
    Cefdinir
  • Cefuroxime
    Cefdinir

  • Summary of Ceftin vs. Cefdinir

    Summary for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Cefuroxime, also known by its brand name Ceftin, is a cephalosporin antibiotic that treats bacterial infections throughout the body. These infections can include sinus infection, ear infection, and urinary tract infection (UTI), among others. The brand name Ceftin has been discontinued, but generic cefuroxime is still available as a tablet and an injection. The tablets are taken by mouth typically every 12 hours, but the dosage depends on your infection and kidney function. Side effects aren't common, but can include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

    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 Ceftin vs. Cefdinir

    Indications for

    Cefuroxime tablets:

    •Strep throat
    •Tonsil infection
    •Ear infection
    •Sinus infection
    •Lung infection related to long-term bronchitis
    •Skin infection
    •Urinary tract infection (UTI)
    •Gonorrhea
    •Lyme disease

    Cefuroxime injection:

    •Lower respiratory tract infection
    •UTI
    •Skin infection
    •Bone and joint infection
    •Bloodstream infection
    •Meningitis
    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 Ceftin vs. Cefdinir

    Pros and Const for Cephalosporin antibiotic
    Pros
    •Treats many types of bacterial infections throughout your body
    •Has generally few side effects
    •Can be used for children and adults
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Might not be able to take this medication if you've had a severe allergy to penicillins or other cephalosporin antibiotics
    •No oral liquid available for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    •Not recommended for the cold or flu, since these infections aren't typically caused by bacteria
    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 Ceftin vs. Cefdinir

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (4%)
    •Nausea or vomiting (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (up to 15%)

  • Warnings of Ceftin vs. Cefdinir

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

  • Prices with our coupons for Ceftin vs. Cefdinir

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    Learn more about Cefdinir

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