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Rocephin vs. Ceftin

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

Key takeaways

Ceftriaxone (generic name) and Cefuroxime (generic name) are both cephalosporin antibiotics, but they have some key differences. Ceftriaxone is typically given as an injection either into the veins or muscles, making it more suitable for hospital or clinic settings. In contrast, Cefuroxime is available as an oral tablet, which you can take at home. Ceftriaxone is used to treat a wide range of infections, including lower respiratory tract infections, ear infections, and meningitis, and is usually given once per day. Cefuroxime, on the other hand, is often prescribed for strep throat, sinus infections, and Lyme disease, and is typically taken every 12 hours. While both medications can cause side effects like diarrhea and allergic reactions, Ceftriaxone can also lead to more serious nervous system side effects and is not recommended close to delivery during pregnancy. Cefuroxime is generally considered safe during pregnancy and has fewer common side effects.

Ceftriaxone

 

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Cefuroxime

 

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Summary for Rocephin

Prescription only

Ceftriaxone is one of the most commonly used antibiotics because of its low risk for side effects and its ability to treat several types of bacterial infections. Ceftriaxone is an injection given either into the veins or into the muscle, so it's used most often in the hospital or a clinic setting (e.g., nursing home, provider's office). But it can also be used at home in certain situations. The dosage depends on the type and severity of your infection, but it's usually given once per day. If you have a penicillin allergy, you might still be able to receive ceftriaxone depending on your reaction to penicillin.

Indications for Rocephin

Pros and Cons for Rocephin

Pros

  • Can treat many different types of infections
  • Can use in people with kidney problems
  • Can use in children
  • Typically given once per day

Cons

  • Must be given by an injection into the veins or into the muscle
  • Sometimes requires twice-daily dosing for more severe infections
  • Not a good choice for treating infections caused by resistant bacteria
  • Might not be the best choice if you've had an allergic reaction to penicillins or other cephalosporin antibiotics

Common Side Effects for Rocephin

  • Side effects aren't common. See Other Side Effects.

Warnings for Rocephin

  • Allergic reactions
  • Avoid administration with calcium-containing medications
  • Nervous system side effects
  • Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
  • Low red blood cell count (hemolytic anemia)
  • Development of drug-resistant bacteria

Summary for Ceftin

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.

Indications for Ceftin

Cefuroxime tablets:

Cefuroxime injection:

Pros and Cons for Ceftin

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

Common Side Effects for Ceftin

  • Diarrhea (4%)
  • Nausea or vomiting (3%)

Warnings for Ceftin

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

Prices with our coupons for Rocephin vs. Ceftin

Price Card Drug Icon
Ceftriaxone1 vial / 500mg
$5.36$30.75
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Cefuroxime Axetil14 tablets / 500mg
$17.12$41.65
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