Compare Biaxin vs. Ceftin

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

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Biaxin (clarithromycin)

Prescription only

Ceftin (cefuroxime axetil)

Prescription only
Treats bacterial infections.

Biaxin (clarithromycin) is a good first-choice medicine to treat most common respiratory infections. Side-effects are common, but mild.

Treats bacterial infections.

Ceftin (cefuroxime axetil) is good for treating many bacterial infections, but be sure to take the full course without stopping so that the medication can work.

Upsides
  • Good first-choice treatment for respiratory infections.
  • Compared to similar medicines, Biaxin (clarithromycin) is better tolerated.
  • Available as an extended-release pill for convenient once daily dosing and as a liquid for trouble swallowing pills.
  • Children as young as 6 months can use Biaxin (clarithromycin) safely and effectively.
  • Good at treating many types of bacterial infections.
  • Available in several different forms: pill, oral suspension, and injection.
  • Available in generic.
Downsides
  • Can cause changes in taste.
  • Can cause abnormal heart rhythms.
  • Biaxin (clarithromycin), can interact with other medications. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you are taking medicines for heart problems or gout.
  • If you have kidney or liver problems, Biaxin (clarithromycin) might not be a good option.
  • Must take the liquid suspension with food.
  • Acid reducers can lower the effectiveness of Ceftin (cefuroxime axetil). Talk to your doctor if you are on acid reducers.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Extended release pill
  • Liquid
  • Pill
  • Oral suspension
  • Injection
Price
Lowest price
$23.48
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Lowest price
$20.28
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Reviews
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Side effects
7possible side effects
  • Nausea
    12%
  • Vomiting
    8%
  • Abnormal changes in taste
    4%
  • Abdominal pain
    3%
  • Diarrhea
    3%
  • Rash
    3%
  • Headache
    2%
See more detailed side effects
The Ceftin (cefuroxime axetil) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
  • Serious allergic reaction
  • Abnormal heart rhythm
    • History of heart arrhythmias
    • Drugs that cause prolonged QT interval
    • Abnormal electrolytes
    • Elderly
  • Liver toxicity
  • Serious drug interactions
  • Severe diarrhea caused by bacteria
    • Antibiotic use
  • Birth defects
    • Pregnancy
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Allergic reaction
    • History of penicillin allergy
    • History of cephalosporin allergy
  • New infection
    • Taking Ceftin (cefuroxime axetil) for a long time
  • Diarrhea
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Biaxin (clarithromycin)
Learn more about Ceftin (cefuroxime axetil)