Key takeaways
Xenleta (lefamulin) and cefuroxime axetil (Ceftin) are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, but they belong to different medication classes and have different uses. Xenleta (lefamulin) is specifically FDA-approved for treating community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP) in adults. It comes as an oral tablet and an intravenous (IV) infusion. In contrast, cefuroxime is a cephalosporin antibiotic that treats a wide range of infections, including sinus infections, ear infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and Lyme disease. Cefuroxime is available as a generic tablet and injection. While both medications can cause side effects like diarrhea and nausea, Xenleta (lefamulin) has a risk of causing QT prolongation, a serious heart rhythm problem, especially when taken with certain other medications. Cefuroxime has a higher risk of allergic reactions, especially for those with penicillin allergies. Additionally, Xenleta (lefamulin) is not recommended during pregnancy, whereas cefuroxime is generally considered safe during pregnancy.
