• Basic Info
• Top Questions
• Clinical Info

What is this medicine?

CEFDINIR (SEF di ner) is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It is used to treat certain kinds of bacterial infections. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• bleeding problems
• kidney disease
• stomach or intestine problems (especially colitis)
• an unusual or allergic reaction to cefdinir, other cephalosporin antibiotics, penicillin, penicillamine, other foods, dyes or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Swallow it with a drink of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach it may help to take it with food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Finish all the medicine you are prescribed even if you think your infection is better.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium
• iron supplements
• other antibiotics
• probenecid

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not get better in a few days.

If you are diabetic you may get a false-positive result for sugar in your urine. Check with your doctor or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetes medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• breathing problems
• fever or chills
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• seizures
• severe or watery diarrhea
• sore throat
• swollen joints
• trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• constipation
• dizziness
• gas or heartburn
• headache
• loss of appetite
• nausea or vomiting
• stomach pain
• stool discoloration
• vaginal itching

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Last Updated: February 27, 2009