Omnicef (Cefdinir) Drug Information

  • Why is this medication prescribed?

    Omnicef (cefdinir) is an antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, ear infections, sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and skin infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

    This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

  • How should this medicine be used?

    Omnicef (cefdinir) comes as a capsule and as an oral suspension. It is usually taken once or twice a day. Shake the suspension well before each use to mix the medication evenly. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Omnicef (cefdinir) exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

    Continue to take Omnicef (cefdinir) even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Omnicef (cefdinir) without talking to your doctor.

  • Other uses for this medicine

    This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

  • What special precautions should I follow?

    Before taking Omnicef (cefdinir):

    • tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Omnicef (cefdinir) or any other cephalosporin antibiotic such as cefaclor (Ceclor) or cephalexin (Keflex), penicillin, or any other drugs.
    • tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially probenecid (Benemid, Probalan) and vitamins.
    • be aware that antacids containing magnesium or aluminum and products containing iron interfere with Omnicef (cefdinir), making it less effective. Take Omnicef (cefdinir) 2 hours before or 2 hours after antacids or iron products.
    • tell your doctor if you have or have ever had colitis, diabetes, or kidney disease.
    • tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Omnicef (cefdinir), call your doctor.

  • What special dietary instructions should I follow?

    Omnicef (cefdinir) may cause an upset stomach. Take Omnicef (cefdinir) with food or milk.

  • What should I do if I forget a dose?

    Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

  • What side effects can this medication cause?

    Omnicef (cefdinir) may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

    • upset stomach
    • vomiting
    • loss of appetite
    • diarrhea
    • headache
    • dizziness
    • fatigue

    If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

    • rash
    • hives
    • swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
    • difficulty breathing or swallowing
    • vaginal infection

    If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

  • What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

    Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

  • In case of emergency/overdose

    In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

  • What other information should I know?

    Keep all appointments with your doctor and laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your response to Omnicef (cefdinir).

    If you are diabetic, use Clinistix or TesTape (but not Clinitest) to test your urine for sugar while taking this drug; Omnicef (cefdinir) may cause false positive results.

    It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

  • Brand Names

    • Omnicef®

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