Cefdinir
Generic Details
Generic Name
Cefdinir
Other Names
- Omnicef
Drug Class
- Cephalosporin antibiotic
Chemical Formula
C19H24N6O5S2
Molecular Weight
436.57 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis
Indications
- Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
- Community-acquired pneumonia
- Acute bacterial sinusitis
- Pharyngitis/tonsillitis
- Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections
Common Dosage Forms
- Capsules
- Oral suspension
Typical Dosage
- 300 mg once daily for 10 days for most indications
Pediatric Dosage
- Based on weight and indication
Geriatric Dosage
- Dose adjustment may be required based on renal function
Side Effects
- Diarrhea
- Vaginal candidiasis
- Nausea
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
Contraindications
- Known allergy to cephalosporins
Pregnancy Category
- Category B - Animal reproduction studies have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women
Lactation Safety
- Caution advised, excretion in breast milk unknown
Drug Interactions
- Probenecid may increase cefdinir levels in the body
Overdose Symptoms
- May cause nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, manage symptoms
Storage Conditions
- Store at controlled room temperature
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues
- Metabolism: Minimal metabolism in the liver
- Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine
Precautions
- Renal impairment
- Pseudomembranous colitis
Warnings
- Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
- Hypersensitivity reactions may occur