Cefdinir
Cefdinir is an oral cephalosporin antibiotic used for selected susceptible bacterial infections of the respiratory tract or ear. It does not treat colds or influenza. Listed uses include acute bacterial otitis media, community-acquired pneumonia, pharyngitis and acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis.
Key points
- Cefdinir selection depends on the infection, likely bacteria and resistance patterns rather than symptom severity alone.
- Iron products and some antacids can reduce cefdinir absorption; iron can also cause a harmless reddish stool colour with cefdinir.
- Severe allergy or persistent watery or bloody diarrhoea requires prompt medical attention.
Listings are for comparison only; suitability and supply depend on clinician and pharmacy checks, prescription requirements and the infection being treated.
How it works
Cefdinir disrupts bacterial cell-wall formation. It should be used only for a bacterial infection judged susceptible to the medicine.
Important safety checks
Review serious penicillin or cephalosporin allergy, kidney function, previous antibiotic-associated colitis, pregnancy, iron supplements, antacids and anticoagulants.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, fainting, a blistering rash, severe or bloody diarrhoea, confusion or very little urine.