Cefdinir (By Mouth)

Cefdinir (SEF-di-ner)

Treats certain types of skin infections, and upper respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, or tonsillitis. Also treats ear infections in children 6 months or older. Belongs to a class of drugs called cephalosporins (SEF-a-loh-SPOR-ins).

Brand Name(s):

Omnicef
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any type of cephalosporin or to penicillin.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• You may take this medicine with or without food.
• Keep taking the medicine for the full time of treatment, even if you begin to feel well. Your infection may return if you stop taking this medicine too soon.
• Shake the oral liquid bottle thoroughly before using the medicine.
• Measure each oral liquid dose with a measuring spoon, medicine cup, or marked medicine dropper.

If a dose is missed:

• Take your medicine as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• Do not take two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not use any oral liquid that is older than 10 days.
• Keep this and all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• If you use antacids or iron supplements (including those found in multivitamins), take them at least 2 hours before or after taking cefdinir.
• However, infant formulas that contain iron are safe to give to a child while he or she is receiving cefdinir.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also taking probenecid (Benemid®) while you are taking cefdinir.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Before taking this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease, or a history of colitis.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms get worse or do not improve after a few days of taking this medicine.
• If you have diabetes, you should be aware that the liquid form of this medicine contains about 3 grams of sugar per teaspoon. Cefdinir taken in either the capsule or the liquid form may cause a false positive result on a urine glucose (sugar) test.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Vaginal itching, swelling, or discharge

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Nausea
• Rash

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.