Cefdinir (Omnicef): Uses, MOA, Warnings

What is cefdinir?

Cefdinir is an antibiotic used for the treatment of certain bacterial infections. The source content identifies the ingredient as cefdinir monohydrate.

In the United States, the brand name mentioned in the source content is Omnicef.

How cefdinir works

Cefdinir works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. This makes it harder for susceptible bacteria to grow and survive.

What cefdinir is used for

The original content lists cefdinir for several bacterial infections, including:

• Pharyngitis and tonsillitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes
• Acute otitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae (only strains susceptible to penicillin), and Moraxella catarrhalis
• Skin infections with or without complications caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes
• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
• Acute sinusitis

For each use, the exact diagnosis and suitability of treatment should be confirmed by a healthcare professional using the official product information.

Dosage information from the source content

The source content provides the following oral dosing information:

• Adolescents and adults: 14 mg/kg per day, up to a maximum of 600 mg/day
• Patients on chronic hemodialysis: initial dose of 300 mg or 7 mg/kg/day; 300 mg (or 7 mg/kg) should be given at the end of each hemodialysis session, with subsequent doses administered daily

Because dosing can vary by age, infection, kidney function, and formulation, readers should verify the exact regimen in the official leaflet or with a pharmacist.

Contraindications

The source content lists known allergy to cephalosporin antibiotics as a contraindication.

Warnings and precautions

• History of colitis
• Renal insufficiency with creatinine clearance below 30 mL/min: the daily dose should be reduced
• Safety and efficacy in neonates and infants younger than 6 months have not been established

Kidney function

The source content advises caution and dose adjustment in renal insufficiency.

Interactions and test results to know about

The original content lists the following interactions and laboratory considerations:

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: cefdinir should be taken at least 2 hours before or after the antacid
• Probenecid
• Iron supplements and iron-fortified foods: cefdinir should be taken at least 2 hours before or after the supplement or food
• Urine ketone tests using nitroprusside may show false positives
• Urine glucose tests using test strips, Benedict solution, or Fehling solution may show false positives
• Coombs test: cephalosporins may occasionally cause a positive result

If you are having laboratory testing, it is important to tell the healthcare team that cefdinir is being used.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

The source content states: Do not use during pregnancy.

For breastfeeding, the source content says cefdinir was not detected in breast milk after a 600 mg dose.

Pregnancy and lactation decisions should always be confirmed using the official prescribing information and individualized medical advice.

Possible adverse reactions and side effects

The source content lists the following adverse reactions and side effects:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Rash
• Seizures
• Allergic reactions
• Anaphylaxis
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome
• Erythema multiforme
• Toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Renal dysfunction
• Toxic nephropathy
• Liver dysfunction, including cholestasis
• Aplastic anemia
• Hemolytic anemia
• Hemorrhage
• False positive urine glucose test
• Neutropenia
• Pancytopenia
• Agranulocytosis
• Pseudomembranous colitis, which may begin during or after treatment

Any severe rash, breathing difficulty, swelling, or severe diarrhea should be treated as urgent and reviewed promptly by a healthcare professional.

Key facts at a glance

Frequently asked questions

Safety reminder

If you have a severe allergic reaction, trouble breathing, swelling, a serious rash, or severe diarrhea, seek urgent medical help. For any medicine-related question, confirm the details in the official FDA medication guide or with a licensed healthcare professional.

Sources and reference links

The original content cites FDA and U.S. drug-information resources. Helpful reference points include the FDA medication guide and the UNII/drug database entries listed below.