Teflaro vs. Ceftin for Skin Infection and Bacterial Infection: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Teflaro (ceftaroline) and cefuroxime axetil are both cephalosporin antibiotics, but they have some key differences. Teflaro (ceftaroline) is a fifth-generation cephalosporin given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, while cefuroxime axetil is a second-generation cephalosporin available as an oral tablet and injection. Teflaro is used to treat pneumonia and skin infections, including those caused by resistant bacteria like MRSA, whereas cefuroxime axetil treats a wider range of infections such as sinus infections, ear infections, UTIs, and Lyme disease. Teflaro is only available as a brand-name medication, while cefuroxime axetil is available in generic form. Both medications can cause side effects like diarrhea and nausea, but Teflaro can also cause nervous system side effects like confusion and seizures, especially in people with kidney problems. Additionally, Teflaro needs to be administered by a healthcare provider, whereas cefuroxime axetil can be taken at home.

Ceftaroline

(Teflaro)

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Cefuroxime

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Summary for Teflaro

Prescription only

Ceftaroline, also known by its brand name Teflaro, is a fifth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that's used to treat pneumonia and skin infections. It's usually used for people who might have an infection from resistant bacteria, such as MRSA. Ceftaroline (Teflaro) is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion. Side effects can include diarrhea, nausea, and rash. Ceftaroline (Teflaro) is similar to penicillin, so it might not be a good choice for people with a penicillin allergy.

Indications for Teflaro

Pneumonia
Bacterial skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)

Pros and Cons for Teflaro

Pros

Works well at treating serious bacterial infections of the skin and lungs
Can use to treat adults and children of all ages
Doesn't interact with other medications
Can fight against resistant bacteria like MRSA

Cons

Needs to be given as an IV infusion by a healthcare provider
Only approved for skin infections and certain types of pneumonia
Given every 8 to 12 hours
Available as a brand-name medication only

Common Side Effects for Teflaro

Adults:

Diarrhea (5%)
Nausea (4%)
Rash (3%)

Children:

Diarrhea (8%)
Rash (7%)
Vomiting (5%)
Nausea (3%)
Fever (3%)

Warnings for Teflaro

Allergic reactions
Diarrhea from Clostridioides difficile infection
Nervous system side effects
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:

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

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