Cefdinir, sold under the brand name Omnicef, is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic widely used to treat various bacterial infections.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this effective medication, from its uses and dosage to potential side effects and storage recommendations.
What is Cefdinir?
Cefdinir is a broad-spectrum, third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that treats various bacterial infections by disrupting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
It works by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in bacterial cell walls, preventing bacteria from forming their protective barriers and ultimately causing bacterial cell death.
In India, Cefdinir is marketed under several brand names including Adcef, Kefnir, Zinir, Aldinir, Maxicef O-300, Sefdin, Cefdiel, Zefnir, Idinir, and Kefdure. It's available in multiple formulations, including capsules (typically 300mg) and oral suspensions for pediatric use.
What are the uses of cefdinir?
Cefdinir is an effective antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections throughout the body. Its broad-spectrum activity makes it valuable for addressing various types of infections.
Throat and tonsil infections (pharyngitis, tonsillitis)
Skin and soft tissue infections (cellulitis)
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Secondary Uses of Cefdinir
Cefdinir is often prescribed for individuals with severe penicillin allergies as an alternative antibiotic option. It's also frequently used in pediatric patients, with formulations specifically designed for children as young as 6 months.
For UTIs specifically, while not typically a first-line treatment, studies have shown cefdinir to be effective with a relatively low treatment failure rate, making it a valuable second-line option.
How Does Cefdinir Work?
Cefdinir works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) within the bacterial cell wall, blocking the final step of peptidoglycan synthesis, which is crucial for maintaining cell wall strength and integrity. This disruption leads to cell lysis and the death of the bacteria.
Cefdinir is classified as a bactericidal antibiotic and is effective against a broad range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including some that produce beta-lactamase enzymes, which can inactivate other antibiotics.
How to Use Cefdinir
Dosage: Take cefdinir orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily (every 12 hours). Shake the bottle well before each dose.
Duration: Continue taking the medication for the full prescribed duration, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication early can cause the infection to return.
Interaction: Some medications, such as magnesium or aluminum-containing antacids, iron supplements, or vitamin/mineral products, can interfere with cefdinir's absorption. Maintain a 2-hour gap between these and cefdinir. Iron-fortified infant formulas do not interfere and can be given concurrently.
Cefdinir Available Forms:
Cefdinir is available in the following oral forms:
Capsules: 300 mg strength.
Powder for oral suspension (Syrup):
125 mg per 5 mL
250 mg per 5 mL.
These oral suspensions are often referred to as Cefdinir syrup (omnicef syrup), especially in pediatric use. They are reconstituted with water before administration and flavored to improve taste for children.
Note: There are no injectable or intravenous forms of cefdinir. It is only taken by mouth, either as a capsule or syrup (oral suspension).
Cefdinir Dosage
The appropriate dosage of cefdinir depends on the type and severity of infection, patient age, weight, and kidney function. Always follow your healthcare provider's prescription instructions.
Typical Dosage Instructions
For adults and adolescents (13 years and older):
Common dosage: 300 mg twice daily or 600 mg once daily for 5-10 days
For UTIs: 300 mg twice daily for 5-7 days
For children (6 months to 12 years):
Dosage is based on weight, typically 7 mg/kg every 12 hours or 14 mg/kg once daily
Available as oral suspension (125 mg/5 mL or 250 mg/5 mL)
Cefdinir can be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, taking it with food may help.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Cefdinir?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What Happens if an Overdose Occurs?
Taking more than the recommended dosage can lead to serious side effects. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
What to Avoid
While taking cefdinir, avoid antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, iron supplements, or multivitamins within 2 hours of taking cefdinir, as these can interfere with proper absorption. However, iron-fortified infant formulas can be given concurrently with cefdinir.
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If any side effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor immediately.
Precautions and Warnings
Certain individuals should use cefdinir with caution or avoid it altogether. Always inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history.
Who Should Avoid This Medicine
Cefdinir should be avoided by individuals with:
Known allergy to cefdinir or other cephalosporin antibiotics
Previous severe allergic reactions to penicillin antibiotics (use with caution)
Severe kidney disease without appropriate dose adjustment
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor as cefdinir can affect an unborn child.
The excretion of cefdinir in breast milk is unclear. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Conditions Where Caution is Needed
Use cefdinir with caution if you have:
Kidney disease (dosage adjustments may be necessary)
History of gastrointestinal disease, especially colitis
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Cefdinir?
Cefdinir is approved for children 6 months and older. Dosage adjustments are made based on weight for pediatric patients. The safety and efficacy in infants younger than 6 months have not been established.
Alcohol or Food Interactions
While cefdinir is not known to interact with alcohol, drinking alcohol may worsen certain side effects like nausea, headache, and stomach upset. It's generally best to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking antibiotics.
Possible Interactions with Other Medications (Drug Interactions)
Cefdinir may interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
Medications That May Interact with Cefdinir
Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium (take at least 2 hours apart)
Iron supplements (take at least 2 hours apart)
Probenecid (may increase cefdinir blood levels)
Blood thinners like warfarin (may increase bleeding risk)
Certain diuretics (may increase kidney side effect risk)
Oral contraceptives (reduced effectiveness possible with severe diarrhea)
Cefdinir may also interfere with certain laboratory tests, including some urine glucose tests, potentially causing false results.
How Should Cefdinir Be Stored?
Proper storage of cefdinir helps maintain its effectiveness and safety throughout its shelf life.
Recommended Storage Temperature for Cefdinir
For capsules:
Store at room temperature between 68° F and 77° F (20° C to 25° C)
Keep in a tightly closed container
Protect from light and moisture
For oral suspension:
Before reconstitution, store the powder at room temperature
After reconstitution, store at room temperature
Shake well before each use
Discard any unused portion after 10 days
What Happens If Cefdinir Is Not Stored Properly?
Improper storage may reduce the effectiveness of cefdinir or cause it to degrade prematurely. This could potentially result in treatment failure or unexpected side effects. Always check the appearance of your medication before use and never use expired antibiotics.
Keep all medications, including cefdinir, out of reach of children and pets. Never flush medications down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so. Consult your pharmacist about proper disposal of unused medication.
By following your healthcare provider's instructions and the guidelines in this comprehensive guide, you can maximize the benefits of cefdinir while minimizing potential risks and side effects.
Cefdinir vs Ceftriaxone
Cefdinir
Ceftriaxone
Cefdinir, also called Omnicef, is an antibiotic used for treating pneumonia, otitis media, strep throat, and cellulitis.
Ceftriaxone, also known as Rocephin, is an antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections.
This antibiotic is classified as a cephalosporin. It is used for treating a wide range of bacterial infections.
Used to treat bacterial infections that are serious or life-threatening, such as E. coli, pneumonia, or meningitis. Ceftriaxone is also used to prevent infection in patients undergoing specific types of surgery.
It works by preventing bacterial growth. This antibiotic only treats bacterial infections.
It works by interfering with the cell wall formation of bacteria. Ceftriaxone weakens the bonds that hold the bacterial cell wall together, allowing holes to form. This kills the bacteria that are causing the infection.
Cefdinir is a cephalosporin antibiotic that treats mild-to-moderate infections caused by susceptible gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The majority of the time, the side effects are minor and infrequent.
Antibiotics such as cefdinir and amoxicillin are used to treat bacterial infections. The drugs are classified into various classes. Cefdinir is a cephalosporin antibiotic, whereas amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic. Cefdinir is only available in generic form.
Avoid taking aluminum, magnesium, or iron-containing antacids or mineral supplements within 2 hours of taking cefdinir. Antacids and iron may make it more difficult for your body to absorb cefdinir. This does not include iron-fortified baby formula.
The common side effects are nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, or rash.
Cefdinir should be taken exactly as directed. Cefdinir is available in oral capsule and suspension forms and should be taken once or twice daily. To avoid stomach upset, take with food or milk.
When patients require antibiotic treatment and remember that antibiotics are only used to treat bacterial infections, not viral infections, they should feel better in three to seven days.
No, they are different antibiotics. Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic, while cefdinir is a cephalosporin antibiotic.
Cefdinir usually starts working within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment. Most people begin to feel improvement in symptoms such as fever, pain, or inflammation within 2 to 3 days, though it’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed—even if you feel better sooner.
No, Cefdinir is not recommended for meningitis. Meningitis requires antibiotics that penetrate the blood-brain barrier, and Cefdinir does not achieve adequate concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). For bacterial meningitis, stronger IV antibiotics like Ceftriaxone or Cefotaxime are typically used.
Yes, Omnicef (Cefdinir) is effective against Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria that cause strep throat. It can be a suitable alternative for patients who are allergic to penicillin. However, penicillin or amoxicillin remains the first-line treatment unless an allergy is present.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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