What is Cefdinir (Cefdinir) prescribed for?

A Bacterial infection is caused by microbes, and it spreads by things such as; Coughing and sneezing, contact with infected people, contact with a contaminated surface, and contaminated food and water, as well as contact with infected creatures including pets and livestock, the creatures may also include fleas and ticks.

This medication is known as a cephalosporin antibiotic. It functions by stopping the growth of the bacteria. This antibiotic only treats bacterial infections. It will not work on viral infections such as the common cold and the flu. Using any antibiotic with it is not needed may cause the drug not to work for future infections.

This medication comes in a singular dose which is 300mg. Remember, your dose is based on your medical background and your overall response to the treatment. If your doctor or pharmacist has given you some information in the form of a pamphlet, take the time to read up on this drug, and if you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please consult your doctor.

This medication is to be taken by mouth, with or without food. And is usually taken once or twice a day. Remember that the dosage given to you is based on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment. For the best outcome, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times.

Make sure you continue to use this medication until the prescribed amount is complete, regardless if symptoms have disappeared within a few days. Discontinuing the medication at an early date may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may lead into a relapse of the infection.

Some medications can bind with cefdinir preventing its full absorption. If you take antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, iron supplements, or vitamin/mineral products, take them at least 2 hours apart from cefdinir.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Cefdinir, or to any other medications or allergies in general. Also it is best to notify your doctor of your medical history. Inform them you have had the following; kidney disease, intestinal disease (colitis).

Cefdinir may cause live bacterial vaccines (such as typhoid vaccine) to not work as well. Do not have any immunizations/vaccinations while using this medication unless your doctor tells you to.

Diarrhea, headache, or nausea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

This medication may cause your stools to turn a reddish color, especially if you also take iron products. This is harmless.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, unusual fatigue, new signs of infection (e.g., persistent sore throat, fever), easy bruising/bleeding, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), mental/mood changes (such as confusion).

This medication may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition (Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea) due to a resistant bacteria. This condition may occur weeks to months after treatment has stopped. Do not use anti-diarrhea or opioid medications if you have the following symptoms because these products may make them worse. Tell your doctor right away if you develop: persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, or blood/mucus in your stool.

Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in oral thrush or a new vaginal yeast infection (oral or vaginal fungal infection). Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth, a change in vaginal discharge or other new symptoms.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What is Cefdinir used for?

Cefdinir is an antibiotic used for the treatment of various bacterial infections. It is effective against gram-positive bacteria such as Haemophilus influenza, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and penicillin-susceptible strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae. Examples of infections caused by bacteria that Cefdinir can treat include strep throat, pneumonia, bronchitis, and infections of the skin, ears, throat, and tonsils. There may also be other conditions treatable with Cefdinir not listed here.

How does Cefdinir work?

Cefdinir works by killing the bacteria. It does this by interfering with the synthesis of the polymer layer that forms over the bacterial cell wall, which is a crucial for the bacteria to grow. Cefdinir binds to the enzymes responsible for producing peptidoglycan (the polymer layer) and prevents it from doing so.

How long does it take Cefdinir to work?

Each patient who takes Cefdinir will likely have a different experience when it comes to the onset of action. It depends on many factors, but most importantly, your infection and the severity of it. Mild infections will likely heal more quickly than infections on the moderate to severe side. The medication will begin to work towards you infection right away, with peak concentration seen only 2-4 hours after administration. From there, it may take a few days for noticeable improvement. Keep in mind, many infections may show improvement and appear to be healed, but the bacteria can still be present and the infection can come back if treatment is stopped early. This is why it is important to continue taking your medication for the entire prescribed time, even if you feel like your infection has healed.

What are the side effects of Cefdinir?

Some common side effects of Cefdinir include diarrhea, headache, or nausea. Additional side effects may include stomach pain, vaginal itching, and reddish colored stools. These side effects should not alarm you. However, you should consult with your doctor if they become unmanageable or do not go away over time.

How long does Cefdinir stay in your system?

Cefdinir has a short half-life seen around 2 hours; this means in 2 hours, the medication will clear by 50% (half). It generally takes most medications around 5 half-lives to clear the system. Cefdinir will remain in the system for up to 10 hours, which is less than half a day.

What type of antibiotic is Cefdinir?

Cefdinir is a cephalosporin antibiotic. There are many different classes of antibiotics; each class contains antibiotics that work similarly. Some examples of different antibiotics include penicillins, tetracyclines, quinolones, macrolides, and sulfonamides.  Additionally, different types of antibiotics work against certain types of bacteria. Cephalosporin antibiotics, like Cefdinir, are derived from Acremonium (previously called Cephalosporium); a type of mold. There are also different types of cephalosporin antibiotics based off their antimicrobial properties, such as first, second, third, and fourth generation cephalosporins, next generation cephalosporins, and cephalosporins/ beta-lactamase inhibitors. Cefdinir is a third generation cephalosporin antibiotic.

How to pronounce Cefdinir?

Cefdinir is pronounced as SEF – DIH – NEER. Cefdinir can affect the results of certain medical tests; therefore, it may be important to know how to properly pronounce the medication name.

How much does Cefdinir cost?

The cost of the medication will depend on where you purchase your supply from. Many medications are found cheaper internationally than in the United States. For example, when you order internationally through My Drug Center, you can purchase 50 Cefdinir tablets for $106.00; this exact same supply would cost close to double the cost in the United States, on average.

How much Cefdinir should I take?

Take only the recommended amount prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than suggested. There are many factors that may influence how much of the drug you can take both safely and effectively. In general, Cefdinir is usually taken at 300mg every 12 hours or 600mg every 24 hours. The duration of treatment will vary depending on your condition and dosage strength; Cefdinir is usually taken for 10-14 days for pneumonia, 5-10 days for bronchitis, and about 10 days for most other infections, such as sinusitis, tonsillitis or pharyngitis, and skin or soft tissue infections. Keep in mind, your doctor may have a different dosing regimen set in place for you; it is important to take this medication exactly as directed by your doctor.

How to take Cefdinir?

Ensure you are taking this medication exactly the way it has been prescribed to you. If you are unsure how to use Cefdinir, consult with your doctor before proceeding. In general, Cefdinir can be taken with or without food but should be swallowed whole without chewing, crushing, or breaking the capsule open.