Cefdinir

Generic Name: cefdinir

Cephalosporin Antibacterial [EPC]Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Cefdinir

Cefdinir is an extended-spectrum, semisynthetic cephalosporin antibiotic for oral administration. Indicated for mild to moderate infections including community-acquired pneumonia, acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, acute maxillary sinusitis, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, skin infections, and acute bacterial otitis media.

Overview

Cefdinir is an extended-spectrum, semisynthetic cephalosporin antibiotic for oral administration. Indicated for mild to moderate infections including community-acquired pneumonia, acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, acute maxillary sinusitis, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, skin infections, and acute bacterial otitis media.

Uses

Treatment of mild to moderate infections including community-acquired pneumonia, acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, acute maxillary sinusitis, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, and acute bacterial otitis media.

Dosage

Adults and adolescents (13 years and older): Community-acquired pneumonia 300 mg every 12 hours for 10 days. Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis 300 mg every 12 hours or 600 mg every 24 hours for 5-10 days. Pharyngitis/tonsillitis 300 mg every 12 hours or 600 mg every 24 hours for 5-10 days.

Side Effects

Most adverse events mild and self-limiting. Common: diarrhea (15%), vaginal moniliasis (4% of women), nausea (3%), headache (2%), abdominal pain (1%). Serious postmarketing events: anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, pseudomembranous colitis.

Interactions

Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum reduce absorption by approximately 40%; take cefdinir 2 hours before or after antacids. Iron supplements reduce absorption by 80%; separate dosing by 2 hours. Probenecid doubles AUC and increases peak levels by 54%.

Warnings

Careful inquiry regarding previous hypersensitivity to cephalosporins, penicillins, or other drugs. Cross-hypersensitivity among beta-lactam antibiotics may occur in up to 10% of penicillin-allergic patients. Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea reported. Contraindicated in patients with known allergy to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category B. Not teratogenic in rats or rabbits. Should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Storage

Store at 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). Preserve in tight, light-resistant containers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cefdinir used for?

Treatment of mild to moderate infections including community-acquired pneumonia, acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, acute maxillary sinusitis, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, and acute bacterial otitis media.

What are the side effects of Cefdinir?

Most adverse events mild and self-limiting. Common: diarrhea (15%), vaginal moniliasis (4% of women), nausea (3%), headache (2%), abdominal pain (1%). Serious postmarketing events: anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, pseudomembranous colitis.

Can I take Cefdinir during pregnancy?

Pregnancy Category B. Not teratogenic in rats or rabbits. Should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

What are the important warnings for Cefdinir?

Careful inquiry regarding previous hypersensitivity to cephalosporins, penicillins, or other drugs. Cross-hypersensitivity among beta-lactam antibiotics may occur in up to 10% of penicillin-allergic patients. Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea reported. Contraindicated in patients with known allergy to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.