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Rocephin vs. Maxipime

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

Key takeaways

Ceftriaxone (generic name) and Cefepime (brand name Maxipime) are both cephalosporin antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, but they have some differences. Ceftriaxone is typically given once a day and can be administered either intravenously or intramuscularly, making it versatile for various settings, including home use. In contrast, Cefepime is usually given every 8 to 12 hours and is primarily administered intravenously, though it can be given intramuscularly for certain urinary tract infections. Cefepime is a fourth-generation cephalosporin, which means it can treat some infections caused by resistant bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, whereas Ceftriaxone is not as effective against resistant bacteria. Both medications can cause similar side effects, such as diarrhea and nervous system issues, but Cefepime may require more frequent dosing and closer monitoring, especially in people with kidney problems. Additionally, Ceftriaxone is generally considered safe during pregnancy until close to delivery, while Cefepime's safety in pregnancy isn't specified.

Ceftriaxone

 

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Cefepime

(Maxipime)

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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 Maxipime

Prescription only

Cefepime (also known by its brand name, Maxipime) is an antibiotic that treats a wide range of bacterial infections, including pneumonia, skin infections, stomach infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). It belongs to the cephalosporin drug class (fourth generation). Cefepime (Maxipime) is typically given as an injection through the veins (intravenous or IV). It can also be given as an injection into the muscle for certain UTIs. Your provider will decide on the dose depending on the type and severity of the infection and your kidney health. Some side effects include reactions at the injection site, like pain and inflammation.

Indications for Maxipime

Pros and Cons for Maxipime

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Maxipime

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

Warnings for Maxipime

  • Allergic reactions
  • Nervous system side effects
  • Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
  • Development of drug-resistant bacteria

Prices with our coupons for Rocephin vs. Maxipime

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Ceftriaxone1 vial / 1g
$11.16$40.37
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Price Card Drug Icon
Cefepime21 vials / 2g
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