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Compare Ceftin vs. Keflex

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

Key takeaways

Cefuroxime (Ceftin) and cephalexin (Keflex) are both cephalosporin antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, such as ear infections, sinus infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, they have some differences. Cefuroxime, previously known by the brand name Ceftin, is available as tablets and injections, while cephalexin, once branded as Keflex, is available as capsules, tablets, and liquid suspensions. Cefuroxime is typically taken 2 times a day, whereas cephalexin can be taken 2 to 4 times a day. Cefuroxime is also used for conditions like gonorrhea and Lyme disease, which are not listed for cephalexin. Both medications can cause side effects like diarrhea and nausea, but cephalexin may also cause dizziness and fatigue. You should avoid heartburn medications with cefuroxime, while cephalexin can interact with metformin and probenecid. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics, but only cephalexin offers a liquid form for those who have trouble swallowing pills.

  • Cefuroxime
    Cephalexin
  • Cefuroxime
    Cephalexin

  • Summary of Ceftin vs. Keflex

    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

    Cephalexin is a common antibiotic that's used to treat many different bacterial infections including urinary tract infections (UTIs), ear infections, and sinus infections, to name a few. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic that kills bacteria to fight the infection. It's safe to use in people over the age of 1, and it's typically taken by mouth 2 to 4 times per day. This medication is available as a lower-cost generic capsule, tablet, and suspension; the brand name Keflex is no longer available. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

  • Indications of Ceftin vs. Keflex

    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
    •Respiratory tract infections
    •Ear infections
    •Skin infections
    •Bone infections
    •Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
    •Reproductive system infections

  • Pros and Cons of Ceftin vs. Keflex

    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
    •Treats several common types of bacterial infections
    •Can use for adults and children over the age of 1
    •Available as a liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    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)

  • Common Side Effects of Ceftin vs. Keflex

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (4%)
    •Nausea or vomiting (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Indigestion
    •Stomach pain

  • Warnings of Ceftin vs. Keflex

    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reaction
    •Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
    •Possible development of drug-resistant bacteria
    Common Side Effects for
    •Allergic reactions
    •Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
    •Development of drug-resistant bacteria
    •Seizures
    •Higher risk of bleeding

  • Prices with our coupons for Ceftin vs. Keflex

    Learn more about Cefuroxime
    Learn more about Cephalexin

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