Cefdinir is an antibiotic. It is used to treat certain bacterial infections of the nose, throat, chest, ears or skin.
Take Cefdinir exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take Cefdinir with or without food.
This medicine is available as a tablet, capsule or suspension.
If you are taking an oral suspension, shake the bottle well before you take it to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose.
Take Cefdinir at regular intervals as instructed. Continue to take it even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of antibiotic. If you don't, the infection will not clear completely.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have a history of allergic reactions (rash, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes) to similar antibiotics such as cefalexin, cefuroxime, cefixime, ceftibuten or any other cephalosporin antibiotics.
Alert your doctor if you are allergic to penicillin antibiotics, for example, amoxicillin, ampicillin and cloxacillin. Penicillins are related to cephalosporins and if you are allergic to one, you may be allergic to the other too.
Inform your doctor if you have kidney or bowel disease, especially colitis (inflammation of the colon).
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Cefdinir may cause any of the following side effects: diarrhea, headache and nausea.
If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop the medicine and inform your doctor quickly. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking probenecid (medicine for gout).
Cefdinir should not be taken together with antacids or iron supplements as these could reduce the effectiveness of this medicine. If you must take antacids, supplemental iron tablets or multivitamins containing iron, take them at least 2 hours before or after you have taken Cefdinir.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal medicines such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
The oral suspension can be stored at room temperature up to a maximum of 25°C, even after you have mixed the powder with water. However, if room temperature is more than 25°C, keep it in the fridge. Do not freeze it otherwise it will become less effective. Throw away any unused portion after 10 days.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.