Cefdinir

DEA Class; Rx

Common Brand Names; 

Indicated for the treatment of acute otitis media.

Documented hypersensitivity

• Diarrhea (8-15%)
• Vaginal moniliasis (<4%)
• Nausea (3%)
• Rash (3%)
• Headache (2%)
• Increased urine leukocytes (2%)
• Increased urine protein (1-2%)
• Decreased lymphocytes (1%)
• Glycosuria (1%)
• Increased alkaline phosphatase (1%)
• Increased eosinophils (1%)
• Increased platelets (1%)

Note differences between twice-daily and once-daily dosing regimens

Use with caution in patients with history of penicillin allergy; if allergic reaction to cefdinir occurs, discontinue therapy

Dosage adjustments may be necessary if CrCl is <30 mL/min

Bacterial or fungal overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms may occur with prolonged or repeated therapy

Use caution in patients with history of colitis

Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum interfere with absorption of cefdinir; if this required during therapy, administer at least 2 hr before or after antacid

Iron supplements, including multivitamins that contain iron, interfere with absorption of cefdinir; if iron supplements required administer at least 2 hours before or after supplement

Pregnancy category: B

Lactation: Unknown whether drug is excreted in milk