Compare ceftriaxone vs. Vantin

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

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Rocephin (ceftriaxone)

Prescription only

Vantin (cefpodoxime)

Prescription only
Treats bacterial infections.

Rocephin (ceftriaxone) is good for treating many bacterial infections, but it is only available as an injectable, so it is usually only used in a hospital or doctor's office.

Treats bacterial infections.

Vantin (cefpodoxime) is good for treating many bacterial infections and it works best if you take the full course without stopping.

Upsides
  • Rocephin (ceftriaxone) is available as a generic.
  • It is good at treating many types of bacterial infections.
  • People usually have few side effects when taking it.
  • Used to treat many types of bacterial infections.
  • Available in two different forms: tablet and liquid suspension.
  • People usually have few side effects when taking it.
  • Vantin (cefpodoxime) is available as a generic.
  • The suspension may be taken with or without food.
Downsides
  • Rocephin (ceftriaxone) is only available as an injectable.
  • If you have to take Rocephin (ceftriaxone) at home, your doctor will have to place a small tube into your skin, and either you or a nurse will inject the medicine.
  • If you're taking Rocephin (ceftriaxone) at home, you have to store it in the fridge, and a nurse might have to see you often to do blood tests.
  • You might not be able to use Rocephin (ceftriaxone) if you've had problems with your large intestine or gallbladder.
  • If you're on blood thinners, let your doctor know. Vantin (cefpodoxime) can interact with your medications and make you more likely to bleed.
  • You can't take antacids within 2 hours of this drug.
  • Vantin (cefpodoxime) can affect certain lab tests, let all your healthcare providers know that you're taking Vantin (cefpodoxime).
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Injection
  • Pill
  • Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$66.47
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Lowest price
$56.31
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Reviews
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Side effects
4possible side effects
  • High platelets
    5%
  • Diarrhea
    3%
  • Abnormal liver tests
    3%
  • Rash
    2%
See more detailed side effects
5possible side effects
  • Diarrhea
    7%
  • Nausea
    3%
  • Diaper rash/fungal skin rash
    2%
  • Other skin rashes
    2%
  • Vomiting
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Allergic reaction
    • Allergic to antibiotics (penicillins, cephalosporins)
  • Diarrhea
  • Low blood count
  • Gallbladder problems
    • History of gallbladder disease
    • Severe kidney problems
    • Child
  • Pancreas problems
    • Severe illness
    • Receiving TPN: nutrition given through a vein
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Diarrhea
  • Allergic reaction
    • Allergy to antibiotics
  • New infection
    • Taking Vantin (cefpodoxime) for a long time
  • Kidney problems
    • Kidney problems
    • Kidney disease
    • Hemodialysis
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Rocephin (ceftriaxone)
Learn more about Vantin (cefpodoxime)