What is cefdinir and how does it work. What types of infections can cefdinir effectively treat. How does cefdinir compare to other antibiotics in terms of efficacy and tolerability. What are the key benefits and potential side effects of cefdinir treatment.

Overview of Cefdinir: A Third-Generation Cephalosporin Antibiotic

Cefdinir (brand name Omnicef) is an oral third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a variety of mild-to-moderate bacterial infections. As a broad-spectrum antibiotic, cefdinir is effective against many common pathogens that cause community-acquired infections.

How does cefdinir work? Cefdinir inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins. This action disrupts the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell lysis and death of susceptible bacteria. Importantly, cefdinir is stable against hydrolysis by many plasmid-mediated beta-lactamases, allowing it to retain activity against certain beta-lactamase-producing strains.

Key Features of Cefdinir

• Oral third-generation cephalosporin
• Broad-spectrum activity against common respiratory and skin pathogens
• Stable against many beta-lactamases
• Once or twice daily dosing
• Available for both adult and pediatric use

Antimicrobial Spectrum and Activity of Cefdinir

Cefdinir demonstrates good in vitro activity against many pathogens commonly implicated in community-acquired infections. Which microorganisms is cefdinir most effective against?

Cefdinir shows particularly good coverage against:

• Haemophilus influenzae (including beta-lactamase-producing strains)
• Moraxella catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase-producing strains)
• Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains)
• Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A streptococcus)
• Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains)

Its activity against these pathogens makes cefdinir an excellent choice for treating many common respiratory tract and skin infections. The drug’s stability against beta-lactamases allows it to maintain efficacy against certain resistant strains that may be problematic for other antibiotics.

Pharmacokinetics and Tissue Distribution of Cefdinir

Understanding the pharmacokinetic profile of cefdinir is crucial for optimizing its therapeutic use. How does cefdinir distribute throughout the body?

Cefdinir demonstrates favorable pharmacokinetic properties:

• Good oral bioavailability
• Distribution into various tissues including sinuses and tonsils
• Penetration into middle ear fluid
• Elimination half-life allowing for once or twice daily dosing

These characteristics contribute to cefdinir’s efficacy in treating infections at various anatomical sites. The drug’s ability to reach adequate concentrations in target tissues is particularly important for respiratory tract infections.

Clinical Efficacy of Cefdinir in Adult and Adolescent Infections

Numerous randomized controlled trials have evaluated the efficacy of cefdinir in treating various infections in adults and adolescents. For which conditions has cefdinir shown good clinical and bacteriological efficacy?

Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

Cefdinir has demonstrated effectiveness in treating:

• Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (ABECB)
• Community-acquired pneumonia

In these infections, cefdinir’s efficacy was generally equivalent to comparator antibiotics like cefprozil, loracarbef, cefuroxime axetil, and cefaclor. Notably, one trial in ABECB patients showed a higher clinical cure rate with cefdinir compared to cefprozil.

Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

Cefdinir has shown good results in treating:

• Acute bacterial rhinosinusitis
• Streptococcal pharyngitis/tonsillitis

For acute bacterial rhinosinusitis, cefdinir produced clinical and bacteriological responses equivalent to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. In streptococcal pharyngitis/tonsillitis, it was at least as effective as penicillin V.

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

Cefdinir has demonstrated efficacy in treating uncomplicated skin infections, with results comparable to cefalexin.

Cefdinir in Pediatric Infections: Efficacy and Safety

Cefdinir has also been extensively studied in pediatric populations. How effective is cefdinir in treating common childhood infections?

In children aged 6 months and older, cefdinir has shown efficacy comparable to other antibiotics in treating:

• Acute otitis media
• Streptococcal pharyngitis/tonsillitis
• Uncomplicated skin infections

For acute otitis media, cefdinir demonstrated similar efficacy to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and cefprozil. In streptococcal pharyngitis/tonsillitis, 5 or 10-day courses of cefdinir were at least as effective as a 10-day course of penicillin V. For skin infections, cefdinir’s efficacy was comparable to cefalexin.

These findings suggest that cefdinir is a valuable option for treating various bacterial infections in pediatric patients, offering a convenient dosing schedule and good tolerability profile.

Tolerability and Safety Profile of Cefdinir

When prescribing any antibiotic, it’s crucial to consider its safety profile. How well-tolerated is cefdinir, and what are its most common side effects?

Overall, cefdinir is generally well-tolerated in both adult and pediatric populations. The most commonly reported adverse event across all age groups is diarrhoea. While the incidence of diarrhoea tends to be higher with cefdinir compared to some other antibiotics, it rarely leads to treatment discontinuation.

Key Points on Cefdinir Tolerability:

• Most adverse events are mild to moderate in severity
• Diarrhoea is the most frequent side effect
• Discontinuation rates due to adverse events are generally similar to comparator antibiotics
• Cefdinir has a superior taste profile compared to many other antibiotics, potentially improving adherence, especially in pediatric patients

The good tolerability profile of cefdinir, combined with its efficacy and convenient dosing, contributes to its value as a treatment option for various bacterial infections.

Advantages of Cefdinir in Clinical Practice

Considering its efficacy, safety profile, and pharmacokinetic properties, what are the key advantages of using cefdinir in clinical practice?

1. Broad-spectrum activity: Effective against many common respiratory and skin pathogens, including some beta-lactamase-producing strains.
2. Convenient dosing: Once or twice daily administration, improving patient compliance.
3. Flexible treatment duration: Effective in both 5 and 10-day regimens for many infections.
4. Good tissue penetration: Reaches therapeutic concentrations in relevant tissues such as sinuses, tonsils, and middle ear fluid.
5. Pediatric formulation: Available and well-studied in children, with a palatable taste improving adherence.
6. Generally well-tolerated: Most adverse events are mild and rarely lead to treatment discontinuation.
7. No probenecid interaction: Unlike some other cephalosporins, cefdinir does not require probenecid for enhanced renal tubular secretion.

These advantages make cefdinir a valuable option in the antibiotic armamentarium, particularly for outpatient management of mild-to-moderate bacterial infections.

Potential Limitations and Considerations for Cefdinir Use

While cefdinir offers many benefits, it’s important to consider potential limitations and specific considerations for its use. What factors should healthcare providers keep in mind when prescribing cefdinir?

Antimicrobial Resistance Concerns

As with all antibiotics, the potential for developing resistance is a concern. Judicious use of cefdinir is crucial to preserve its efficacy. It should be reserved for infections where it is clearly indicated and where narrower-spectrum antibiotics are not appropriate.

Limited Anaerobic Coverage

Cefdinir has limited activity against anaerobic bacteria. For infections where anaerobic coverage is necessary, alternative or additional antibiotics may be required.

Food and Drug Interactions

Cefdinir absorption can be affected by certain foods and medications:

• Iron supplements and iron-fortified foods can decrease cefdinir absorption
• Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum may reduce cefdinir absorption
• Probenecid can increase cefdinir plasma concentrations

Healthcare providers should counsel patients on proper timing of cefdinir administration in relation to these substances.

Renal Dosing Adjustments

Cefdinir is primarily eliminated by the kidneys. Dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with significant renal impairment to avoid drug accumulation and potential toxicity.

Allergy Considerations

As with other cephalosporins, there is a potential for cross-reactivity in patients with penicillin allergies. While the risk is generally low, caution is warranted in patients with severe penicillin allergies.

By considering these factors, healthcare providers can optimize the use of cefdinir and minimize potential risks associated with its administration.

Cefdinir: a review of its use in the management of mild-to-moderate bacterial infections

Review

. 2004;64(13):1433-64.

doi: 10.2165/00003495-200464130-00004.

Caroline M Perry 
¹
, Lesley J Scott

Affiliations

Affiliation

• ¹ Adis International Limited, 41 Centorian Drive, Private Bag 65901, Mairangi Bay, Auckland 1311, New Zealand. [email protected]

• PMID:

  15212560

• DOI:

  10.2165/00003495-200464130-00004

Review

Caroline M Perry et al.

Drugs.

2004.

. 2004;64(13):1433-64.

doi: 10.2165/00003495-200464130-00004.

Authors

Caroline M Perry 
¹
, Lesley J Scott

Affiliation

• ¹ Adis International Limited, 41 Centorian Drive, Private Bag 65901, Mairangi Bay, Auckland 1311, New Zealand. [email protected]

• PMID:

  15212560

• DOI:

  10.2165/00003495-200464130-00004

Abstract

Cefdinir (Omnicef) is an oral third-generation cephalosporin with good in vitro activity against many pathogens commonly causative in community-acquired infections. The drug provides good coverage against Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis and penicillin-susceptible Streptococcus pneumoniae, the most common respiratory tract pathogens. Cefdinir is stable to hydrolysis by commonly occurring plasmid-mediated beta-lactamases and retains good activity against beta-lactamase-producing strains of H. influenzae and M. catarrhalis. The drug distributes into various tissues (e.g. sinus and tonsil) and fluids (e.g. middle ear), and has a pharmacokinetic profile that allows for once- or twice-daily administration.Cefdinir, administered for 5 or 10 days, has shown good clinical and bacteriological efficacy in the treatment of a wide range of mild-to-moderate infections of the respiratory tract and skin in adults, adolescents and paediatric patients in randomised, controlled trials. In adults and adolescents, cefdinir is an effective treatment for both lower (acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis [ABECB], community-acquired pneumonia) and upper (acute bacterial rhinosinusitis, streptococcal pharyngitis) respiratory tract infections, and uncomplicated skin infections. Its bacteriological and clinical efficacy in patients with lower respiratory tract infections was equivalent to that of comparator agents (cefprozil [bacteriological only], loracarbef, cefuroxime axetil and cefaclor). In one trial in patients with ABECB, cefdinir produced a higher rate of clinical cure than cefprozil (95% CIs indicated nonequivalence). Cefdinir also produced good clinical and bacteriological responses equivalent to responses with amoxicillin/clavulanic acid in patients with acute bacterial rhinosinusitis. In addition, it was at least as effective as penicillin V (phenoxymethylpenicillin) in streptococcal pharyngitis/tonsillitis and as effective as cefalexin in uncomplicated skin infections. In paediatric patients aged > or =6 months, cefdinir showed similar efficacy to that of amoxicillin/clavulanic acid or cefprozil in acute otitis media, and cefalexin in uncomplicated skin infections. Cefdinir given for 5 or 10 days was at least as effective as penicillin V for 10 days in patients with streptococcal pharyngitis/tonsillitis. Cefdinir is usually well tolerated. Diarrhoea was the most common adverse event in trials in all age groups. Although the incidence of diarrhoea in cefdinir recipients was generally higher than in adults and adolescents treated with comparators, discontinuation rates due to adverse events were generally similar for cefdinir and comparator groups. In conclusion, cefdinir is a third-generation cephalosporin with a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity encompassing pathogens that are commonly causative in infections of the respiratory tract or skin and skin structure. Depending on the infection being treated, cefdinir can be administered as a convenient once- or twice-daily 5- or 10-day regimen. Clinical evidence indicates that cefdinir is an effective and generally well tolerated drug with superior taste over comparator antibacterial agents and is therefore a good option for the treatment of adults, adolescents and paediatric patients with specific mild-to-moderate respiratory tract or skin infections, particularly in areas where beta-lactamase-mediated resistance among common community-acquired pathogens is a concern.

Similar articles

• Cefdinir: an advanced-generation, broad-spectrum oral cephalosporin.

  Guay DR.

  Guay DR.
  Clin Ther. 2002 Apr;24(4):473-89. doi: 10.1016/s0149-2918(02)85125-6.
  Clin Ther. 2002.

  PMID: 12017394

  Review.

• Cefuroxime axetil: an updated review of its use in the management of bacterial infections.

  Scott LJ, Ormrod D, Goa KL.

  Scott LJ, et al.
  Drugs. 2001;61(10):1455-500. doi: 10.2165/00003495-200161100-00008.
  Drugs. 2001.

  PMID: 11558834

  Review.

• Cefprozil. A review of its antibacterial activity, pharmacokinetic properties, and therapeutic potential.

  Wiseman LR, Benfield P.

  Wiseman LR, et al.
  Drugs. 1993 Feb;45(2):295-317. doi: 10.2165/00003495-199345020-00008.
  Drugs. 1993.

  PMID: 7681376

  Review.

• Review of in vitro activity, pharmacokinetic characteristics, safety, and clinical efficacy of cefprozil, a new oral cephalosporin.

  Barriere SL.

  Barriere SL.
  Ann Pharmacother. 1993 Sep;27(9):1082-9. doi: 10.1177/106002809302700914.
  Ann Pharmacother. 1993.

  PMID: 8219444

  Review.

• Cefdinir: an oral cephalosporin for the treatment of respiratory tract infections and skin and skin structure infections.

  Sader HS, Jones RN.

  Sader HS, et al.
  Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2007 Feb;5(1):29-43. doi: 10.1586/14787210.5.1.29.
  Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2007.

  PMID: 17266451

  Review.

See all similar articles

Cited by

• Are Prophylactic Systemic Antibiotics Required in Patients with Cataract Surgery at Local Anesthesia?

  Matsuo T, Iguchi M, Morisato N, Murasako T, Hagiya H.

  Matsuo T, et al.
  Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Nov 27;19(23):15796. doi: 10.3390/ijerph292315796.
  Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022.

  PMID: 36497871
  Free PMC article.

• Predicting Oral Beta-lactam susceptibilities against Streptococcus pneumoniae.

  Murphy ME, Powell E, Courter J, Mortensen JE.

  Murphy ME, et al.
  BMC Infect Dis. 2021 Jul 13;21(1):679. doi: 10.1186/s12879-021-06341-y.
  BMC Infect Dis. 2021.

  PMID: 34256734
  Free PMC article.

• Cefdinir and β-Lactamase Inhibitor Independent Efficacy Against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

  Srivastava S, Thomas T, Howe D, Malinga L, Raj P, Alffenaar JW, Gumbo T.

  Srivastava S, et al.
  Front Pharmacol. 2021 Jun 7;12:677005. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2021. 677005. eCollection 2021.
  Front Pharmacol. 2021.

  PMID: 34163361
  Free PMC article.

• A network medicine approach to investigation and population-based validation of disease manifestations and drug repurposing for COVID-19.

  Zhou Y, Hou Y, Shen J, Mehra R, Kallianpur A, Culver DA, Gack MU, Farha S, Zein J, Comhair S, Fiocchi C, Stappenbeck T, Chan T, Eng C, Jung JU, Jehi L, Erzurum S, Cheng F.

  Zhou Y, et al.
  PLoS Biol. 2020 Nov 6;18(11):e3000970. doi: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000970. eCollection 2020 Nov.
  PLoS Biol. 2020.

  PMID: 33156843
  Free PMC article.

• A Network Medicine Approach to Investigation and Population-based Validation of Disease Manifestations and Drug Repurposing for COVID-19.

  Zhou Y, Hou Y, Shen J, Kallianpur A, Zein J, Culver DA, Farha S, Comhair S, Fiocchi C, Gack MU, Mehra R, Stappenbeck T, Chan T, Eng C, Jung JU, Jehi L, Erzurum S, Cheng F.

  Zhou Y, et al.
  ChemRxiv. 2020 Jul 2. doi: 10.26434/chemrxiv.12579137. Preprint.
  ChemRxiv. 2020.

  PMID: 32676577
  Free PMC article.
  Updated.

See all “Cited by” articles

References

1. 1. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 1999 Dec;18(12):1152-5

      –

      PubMed

2. 1. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 1999 Feb;43(2):385-9

      –

      PubMed

3. 1. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2000;257(3):140-8

      –

      PubMed

4. 1. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 1994 Dec;38(12):2902-4

      –

      PubMed

5. 1. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis. 1995 May-Jun;22(1-2):89-96

      –

      PubMed

Publication types

MeSH terms

Substances

Cefdinir: an advanced-generation, broad-spectrum oral cephalosporin

Review

. 2002 Apr;24(4):473-89.

doi: 10.1016/s0149-2918(02)85125-6.

David R P Guay 
¹

Affiliations

Affiliation

• ¹ Institute for the Study of Geriatric Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55455, USA. [email protected]

• PMID:

  12017394

• DOI:

  10.1016/s0149-2918(02)85125-6

Review

David R P Guay.

Clin Ther.

2002 Apr.

. 2002 Apr;24(4):473-89.

doi: 10.1016/s0149-2918(02)85125-6.

Author

David R P Guay 
¹

Affiliation

• ¹ Institute for the Study of Geriatric Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55455, USA. [email protected]

• PMID:

  12017394

• DOI:

  10.1016/s0149-2918(02)85125-6

Abstract

Background:

Cefdinir is an advanced-generation, broad-spectrum cephalosporin antimicrobial agent that has been approved for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia, acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, acute maxillary sinusitis, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, acute bacterial otitis media, and uncomplicated skin and skin-structure infections in adult and pediatric patients.

Objective:

The purpose of this article was to review the in vitro antimicrobial activity, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, safety, and potential role of cefdinir.

Methods:

Studies were identified by a MEDLINE search (January 1983-September 2001) of the English-language medical literature, a review of identified articles and their bibliographies, and a review of data on file with the manufacturer. Clinical efficacy data were selected from all published trials mentioning cefdinir. Information concerning in vitro susceptibility, safety, chemistry, and the pharmacokinetic profile of cefdinir also was reviewed.

Results:

Cefdinir has a broad spectrum of activity against many gram-negative and gram-positive aerobic organisms, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. Cefdinir is stable to hydrolysis by 13 of the common beta-lactamases. It is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (mean time to peak plasma concentration, 3 hours) and is almost entirely eliminated via renal clearance of unchanged drug. The terminal disposition half-life of cefdinir is approximately 1.5 hours. Efficacy has been demonstrated in 19 clinical trials in adults and children with upper and lower respiratory tract infections (eg, pharyngitis, sinusitis, acute otitis media, acute bronchitis, acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, community-acquired pneumonia), and skin and skin-structure infections. The adverse-event profile is similar to that of comparator agents, although in 4 adult and adolescent studies and 1 adult study, diarrhea occurred significantly more frequently in cefdinir recipients than in recipients of penicillin V, cephalexin, cefaclor, and cefprozil.

Conclusions:

Cefdinir is an alternative to other antimicrobial agents and can be dosed once or twice daily for the treatment of upper and lower respiratory tract infections and skin and skin-structure infections. Similar to other oral expanded-spectrum cephalosporins, cefdinir has activity against common pathogens of the respiratory tract and skin and is stable in the presence of selected beta-lactamases. The clinical choice of an oral expanded-spectrum cephalosporin will be based on patient acceptance, frequency of administration, and cost.

Similar articles

• Cefdinir: an expanded-spectrum oral cephalosporin.

  Guay DR.

  Guay DR.
  Ann Pharmacother. 2000 Dec;34(12):1469-77. doi: 10.1345/aph.19407.
  Ann Pharmacother. 2000.

  PMID: 11144705

  Review.

• Cefdinir: a review of its use in the management of mild-to-moderate bacterial infections.

  Perry CM, Scott LJ.

  Perry CM, et al.
  Drugs. 2004;64(13):1433-64. doi: 10.2165/00003495-200464130-00004.
  Drugs. 2004.

  PMID: 15212560

  Review.

• Ceftibuten: a new expanded-spectrum oral cephalosporin.

  Guay DR.

  Guay DR.
  Ann Pharmacother. 1997 Sep;31(9):1022-33. doi: 10.1177/106002809703100913.
  Ann Pharmacother. 1997.

  PMID: 9296244

  Review.

• Review of cefditoren, an advanced-generation, broad-spectrum oral cephalosporin.

  Guay DR.

  Guay DR.
  Clin Ther. 2001 Dec;23(12):1924-37; discussion 1923. doi: 10.1016/s0149-2918(01)80147-8.
  Clin Ther. 2001.

  PMID: 11813929

  Review.

• Cefprozil. A review of its antibacterial activity, pharmacokinetic properties, and therapeutic potential.

  Wiseman LR, Benfield P.

  Wiseman LR, et al.
  Drugs. 1993 Feb;45(2):295-317. doi: 10.2165/00003495-199345020-00008.
  Drugs. 1993.

  PMID: 7681376

  Review.

See all similar articles

Cited by

• Convergent synthesis, kinetics insight and allosteric computational ascriptions of thiazole-(5-aryl)oxadiazole hybrids embraced with propanamides as alkaline phosphatase inhibitors.

  Butt ARS, Abbasi MA, Aziz-Ur-Rehman, Siddiqui SZ, Muhammad S, Raza H, Shah SAA, Shahid M, Alsehemi AG, Kim SJ.

  Butt ARS, et al.
  RSC Adv. 2023 May 15;13(20):13798-13808. doi: 10.1039/d3ra01348k. eCollection 2023 May 2.
  RSC Adv. 2023.

  PMID: 37197574
  Free PMC article.

• Synthesis of New Binary Thiazole-Based Heterocycles and Their Molecular Docking Study as COVID-19 Main Protease (M^pro) Inhibitors.

  Abdel-Latif E, Khatab TK, Fekri A, Khalifa ME.

  Abdel-Latif E, et al.
  Russ J Gen Chem. 2021;91(9):1767-1773. doi: 10.1134/S1070363221090231. Epub 2021 Oct 27.
  Russ J Gen Chem. 2021.

  PMID: 34720568
  Free PMC article.

• Cefdinir associated bloody stool in Riyadh infant: A case report.

  Bahkali HA, Alshuraim RA, Alghalbi M, Mohzari YA, Asdaq SMB.

  Bahkali HA, et al.
  J Family Med Prim Care. 2020 Jun 30;9(6):3162-3164. doi: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_505_20. eCollection 2020 Jun.
  J Family Med Prim Care. 2020.

  PMID: 32984193
  Free PMC article.

• Designing, synthesis and characterization of 2-aminothiazole-4-carboxylate Schiff bases; antimicrobial evaluation against multidrug resistant strains and molecular docking.

  Ejaz S, Nadeem H, Paracha RZ, Sarwar S, Ejaz S.

  Ejaz S, et al.
  BMC Chem. 2019 Sep 14;13(1):115. doi: 10.1186/s13065-019-0631-6. eCollection 2019 Dec.
  BMC Chem. 2019.

  PMID: 31535091
  Free PMC article.

• Design, Synthesis and DFT/DNP Modeling Study of New 2-Amino-5-arylazothiazole Derivatives as Potential Antibacterial Agents.

  Abu-Melha S.

  Abu-Melha S.
  Molecules. 2018 Feb 15;23(2):434. doi: 10.3390/molecules23020434.
  Molecules. 2018.

  PMID: 29462895
  Free PMC article.

See all “Cited by” articles

Publication types

MeSH terms

Substances

What to treat Cefdinir for? – BALLA

• Quick Navigation
• What is cefdinir?
  1. Definition
  2. Pharmacological effects
• effects of cefdinir
  1. Cefdinir Dosge
  2. Side effects
• Precautions
• Conclusion

What is cefdinir?

Definition silt) – ( oximino)acetyl]amino]-3-vinyl-8-oxo-5-thia-1-azabicyclo [4. 2.0]oct-2-ene-2-carboxylic acid, in 0.1 mol/L phosphate buffer [0.1 Slightly soluble in mol/l sodium hydrogen phosphate solution-0.1 mol/l potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution (2:1)], but insoluble in water, ethanol or ether.

Cefdinir refers to 3rd generation cephalosporin , which can interfere with the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. It has a good bactericidal effect on both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, especially on golden yellow grapes and streptococci among gram-positive bacteria.

Not only is Cefdinir not degraded by lactamase produced by bacteria, but it also has excellent antibacterial activity against bacteria produced by lactamase. Clinically, it can be used to treat respiratory, urinary tract, ear and nose infections caused by Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pneumococcus, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Proteus mirabilis, Haemophilus influenzae, etc. Throat, skin and soft tissue infections.

It should be recalled that patients allergic to penicillin should not use cephalosporin antibacterial drugs. If your skin is allergic to it, it can be replaced with special antibacterial drugs such as roxithromycin.

2. Pharmacological effects

It has a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, especially against staphylococcus and streptococcus among gram-positive bacteria. It has stronger antibacterial activity than the previous oral cephalosporins . The mechanism of action is bactericidal.

It is resistant to beta-lactamase produced by various bacteria and has excellent antibacterial activity against beta-lactamase producing bacteria. The mechanism of action is that it prevents the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. It has strong binding to penicillin binding protein (PBP) 1 (1a, 1bs), 2, 3, but has different active sites for different bacteria.

This product has a broad spectrum antibacterial action against gram positive and negative aerobes and anaerobes. Compared to other existing oral cephalosporin antibiotics , the antibacterial activity of this product is strong against Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Peptostreptococcus, Propionibacteriu. A clinical study of 1433 cases (100 mg each time, 3 times a day) showed that the effective rate of this product against various infections: superficial purulent diseases 89.2%, surgical infections 90%, acute respiratory infections 82.8%, chronic respiratory infections 63.1%, urinary tract infections 82.8%, gynecological infections 88.4%, ophthalmic infections 94.3% and otolaryngology infections 75%. The bacteriological clearance rate for Gram-positive bacteria was 91.9% and the bacteriological clearance rate for Gram-negative bacteria was 91.4%.

Cefdinir uses

Cefdinir-uses

Although the abuse of antibiotics in China is serious, it also confirms the strong effect of antibiotics on the other hand. According to relevant data and information, the average consumption of antibiotics in China is 138 grams, which is ten times more than the world’s No. 1 UK. In addition, the antibiotic use rate of hospitalized patients in China has reached 80%, and the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and synergists has reached 58%, far exceeding the international level of 30%.

Cefdinir is one of the cephalosporins which mainly kills bacteria by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. Its antibacterial spectrum is relatively broad, including some Gram-positive bacteria as well as Gram-negative bacteria. Therefore, cefdinir can be used clinically to treat multi-site infections caused by susceptible bacteria.

These infections occur in the upper respiratory tract and present with pharyngitis, laryngitis, and tonsillitis. It can also occur in the lower respiratory tract, such as in bronchitis and pneumonia. It can also occur in the urinary system, such as in cystitis, urethritis, and pyelonephritis. It can also occur in the reproductive system, such as accessory inflammation and prostatitis. It can also occur on the skin and soft tissues, manifesting as folliculitis, skin boils, erysipelas, cellulitis, etc.

The core value of Cefdinir capsules can be reflected in many places. First of all, Cefdinir capsules are common. It has a strong effect on the suppression of various bacteria in clinical practice. It can treat many diseases at the same time with significant pharmacological effects. It has significant therapeutic value in the treatment of gonococcal urethritis, adnexal inflammation and infection of the uterine cavity, as well as mastitis and perianal redness, as well as in the prevention of postoperative wound infection and a number of serious diseases, but a small number of people may experience this disease. intestinal upset, discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract, skin eczema and lack of blood after ingestion.

Cefdinir can treat the following infections caused by Proteus mirabilis, Providencia, Haemophilus influenzae and other strains of Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pneumococcus, Peptostreptococcus, Propionibacterium, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Moraxella catarrhalis, E. coli and Klebsiella sensitive to cefdinir:

1. Pharyngitis , tonsillitis, acute bronchitis, pneumonia;
2. Otitis, sinusitis;
3. Pyelonephritis, cystitis, gonococcal urethritis;
4. Annexitis, intrauterine infection, bartholinitis;
5. Secondary infection of mastitis, abscess around the anus, trauma or surgical wound;
6. Folliculitis, furuncle, boils, carbuncle, infectious impetigo, erysipelas, cellulitis, lymphangitis, paronychia, subcutaneous abscess, acne infection, chronic pyoderma;
7. Blepharitis, stye, meibomite.

Side effect of cefdinir s

1. Cefdinir Dosge

After dissolving in water, take orally or swallow directly. The usual adult dose is 100 mg one to three times daily. The usual dose for children is 9-18 mg/kg per day in three divided doses. The dosage may be increased or decreased as appropriate according to age and symptoms, or as directed by a physician.

2. Side effects

• Dermatology: possible toxic epidermal necrolysis (<0.1%). Patients should be closely monitored. If fever, headache, joint pain, erythema/blistering or a feeling of tightness/burning/pain develops on the skin or mucous membranes, the medication should be stopped immediately and appropriate treatment instituted.
• Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions such as dyspnoea, erythema, angioedema and urticaria may occur with a frequency of <0.1%. Patients should be closely monitored. If abnormalities occur, you should immediately stop taking the drug and conduct appropriate treatment.
• Shock: shock <0.1% may occur. Patients should be closely monitored. If symptoms such as discomfort, discomfort in the mouth, wheezing, dizziness, constipation, tinnitus or sweating appear, the drug should be stopped immediately and appropriate treatment should be carried out.
• Hematology: pancytopenia (<0. 1%), agranulocytosis (<0.1%, initial symptoms - fever, sore throat, headache, malaise), thrombocytopenia (<0.1%, initial symptoms - ecchymosis, purpura) or hemolytic anemia (< 0.1%, initial symptoms are fever, hemoglobinuria and anemia). Patients should be closely monitored. If abnormalities occur, the drug should be stopped immediately and appropriate treatment should be carried out.
• Colitis: Severe colitis (<0.1%) may develop, such as pseudomembranous colitis confirmed by blood. Patients should be closely monitored. If symptoms such as abdominal pain or frequent diarrhea appear, the drug should be stopped immediately and appropriate treatment should be carried out.
• Interstitial pneumonia or PIE syndrome: Interstitial pneumonia or PIE syndrome may occur, evidenced by fever, cough, dyspnoea, abnormal chest x-ray, or eosinophilia (<0.1%). If such symptoms appear, the drug should be stopped immediately and appropriate treatment should be prescribed, for example, the use of adrenocorticoid drugs.
• Kidney disease: possible severe kidney disease (<0.1%), eg acute renal failure. Patients should be closely monitored. If abnormalities occur, you should immediately stop taking the drug and conduct appropriate treatment.
• Fulminant hepatitis, hepatic impairment, or jaundice: Severe hepatitis (<0.1%) may develop, such as fulminant hepatitis with significant elevation of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, or alkaline phosphatase, hepatic impairment (<0.1%), or jaundice (<0.1% ). ). Patients should be closely monitored. If abnormalities occur, you should immediately stop taking the drug and conduct appropriate treatment.

Precautionary statements

Cefdinir-Precautions

According to practice, after determining the sensitivity of microorganisms to this product, the course of treatment with this product should be limited to the shortest period necessary to treat the patient in order to prevent the formation of resistant bacteria.

It is recommended to avoid combination with iron preparations. If combination use cannot be avoided, iron preparations should be used 3 hours after taking this product.

Due to the possibility of shock and other allergic reactions, a detailed allergic history should be asked.

The following patients should use it with caution:

1. Those with a history of allergy to penicillin antibiotics;
2. People prone to bronchial asthma, skin rashes, hives and other allergic symptoms in themselves or their loved ones;
3. Patients with severe renal impairment: Since cefdinir is present in the serum of patients with severe renal impairment for a long time, the dose should be reduced and the interval between doses should be increased depending on the severity of renal impairment. For patients on hemodialysis, the recommended dose is 100 mg XNUMX times a day;
4. Patients suffering from serious underlying diseases, unable to eat or not eat normally, the elderly, cachexia, etc. (As vitamin K deficiency may occur, careful clinical observation is required).
5. Red stools and red urine may occur when combined with iron supplements (such as milk powder or enteral nutrition).
6. With regard to drugs during pregnancy, their safety has not yet been confirmed. Pregnant women or women who are suspected of being pregnant should weigh the pros and cons of the medication, and it should only be used when the benefits outweigh the harms.
7. Women who are breastfeeding should weigh the pros and cons of drugs, and they should only be used when the pros outweigh the cons.
8. Medicines are not guaranteed to be safe in premature and underweight infants.
9. Elderly patients may be predisposed to adverse reactions due to decreased physical function.
10. Due to vitamin K deficiency, elderly patients may be prone to bleeding.

In addition, the effect of an overdose of cefdinir has not been studied. In a study of acute toxic and erosive ulcers, a single oral dose of 5600 mg/kg produced no adverse effects. Other beta-lactam Overdose of antibiotics may cause the following side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and convulsions. Serum dialysis can remove cefdinir from the human body. Hemodialysis is useful for patients with toxic reactions due to drug overdose, especially for patients with renal insufficiency.

Conclusion

Cefdinir belongs to 3rd generation cephalosporin . Whether it’s antibacterial spectrum or antibacterial activity, it has greatly improved over the previous two generations of cephalosporins. But it also has some special side effects, such as red stools and red urine, that require our attention.

BALLA provides combination test kit with beta-lactam cephalexin to tell you if there are beta-lactams residues and cephalosporin residues in the dairy products you eat every day.

Recommendations

• PubChem: Cefdinir
• Wickem: Cefdinir

Cefdinir vs.

Amoxicillin: Differences, Similarities, and Which is Best for You – Drug Vs. Friend

Home >> Drug Vs. Friend >> Cefdinir vs Amoxicillin: Differences, Similarities & Which is Best for You

Drug Vs. Friend

Medication Overview and Key Differences | Conditions of treatment | Efficiency | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug Interactions | Warnings | Frequently Asked Questions

Cefdinir (Omnicef) and amoxicillin (Amoxil) are two antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections. Both drugs are part of a group of antibiotics called beta-lactams. They can treat a number of different infections such as respiratory tract infections, ear infections, and skin infections.

Like most beta-lactam antibiotics, cefdinir and amoxicillin work by inhibiting the ability of bacteria to maintain their cell wall. By attacking this process, these antibiotics are able to destroy the bacteria’s primary defenses and their means of reproduction.

Although they work in the same way, cefdinir and amoxicillin are part of different subclasses of beta-lactam antibiotics. They also differ in how they are used and which bacteria are most effective.

What are the main differences between cefdinir and amoxicillin?

Cefdinir

Cefdinir is an antibiotic which is further classified as a cephalosporin. Specifically, it is a third-generation cephalosporin that covers various strains of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Compared to earlier cephalosporin antibiotics (eg, cephalexin, cefuroxime, and cefaclor), cefdinir has a wider coverage for Gram-negative bacteria.

Cefdinir (what is cefdinir?) Can treat infections such as community-acquired pneumonia, acute otitis media (AOM), bronchitis, and pharyngitis. It is available as oral capsules and liquid suspension, which can be administered once or twice a day depending on the dosage.

Want a better price for Cefdinir?

Sign up for Cefdinir price alerts and be notified when the price changes!

Get price alerts

Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic of the penicillin family, the structure of which is close to that of penicillin; however, unlike penicillin, amoxicillin covers more bacterial strains. Amoxicillin is often combined with clavulanic acid, a beta-lactamase inhibitor, making it a stronger antibiotic against certain bacteria.

Amoxicillin (what is amoxicillin?) May treat Helicobacter pylori infections, lower respiratory infections and gonorrhea among other infections. It is available as oral capsules, tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid oral suspension. Amoxicillin is usually taken two or three times a day depending on the dosage and the infection being treated.

Want a better price on amoxicillin?

Sign up for amoxicillin price alerts and find out when the price changes!

Receive price alerts

Conditions treated with cefdinir and amoxicillin

Cefdinir is FDA approved for the treatment of acute otitis media or middle ear infection, and skin and soft tissue infections. Cefdinir is also approved for the treatment of upper and lower respiratory tract infections. Upper respiratory tract infections include sinusitis, pharyngitis, and tonsillitis. Lower respiratory tract infections include community-acquired pneumonia, which cefdinir can treat in adults and children 13 years of age and older.

Amoxicillin is approved for the treatment of ear, nose and throat infections such as sinusitis, pharyngitis and tonsillitis. Amoxicillin is also approved for the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections such as community-acquired pneumonia caused by: streptococcal pneumonia . Unlike cefdinir, amoxicillin is also commonly used to treat gonorrhea and Helicobacter pylori infections.

902 97 yes

Is cefdinir or amoxicillin more effective?

Cefdinir is effective against infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus , Pneumococcus (penicillin-susceptible strains only), and Streptococcus pyogenes . Cefdinir is also effective against Gram-negative bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae , Haemophilus parainfluenzae , and Moraxella catarrhalis .

Amoxicillin is effective against infections caused by gram-positive bacteria such as streptococci and staphylococci. Amoxicillin is also active against Gram-negative bacteria, including Haemophilus influenzae , Escherichia coli , Helicobacter pylori and also Neisseria gonorrhoeae .

Clinical trials

There are not enough serious studies to show a direct comparison between cefdinir and amoxicillin. However, some multicenter clinical trials in the US and Europe have shown cefdinir and amoxicillin/clavulanate to be similar in efficacy. In the treatment of bacterial sinusitis, cefdinir was as effective as amoxicillin/clavulanate after 10 days of treatment.

In another study The tolerability of liquid suspensions of cefdinir and amoxicillin/clavulanate was compared in pediatric patients. In a sample of 715 young children aged four to eight years, 85% of them rated the taste of cefdinir as good or really good compared to 63% of them who rated amoxicillin/clavulanate, cefprozil, and azithromycin the same.

The effectiveness of these antibiotics will depend on which bacteria is causing the infection. Talk to your doctor or health care provider about which antibiotic is best for you. Because of the rise in antibiotic resistance, it is important that an antibiotic be used only after the susceptible bacteria causing the infection have been identified.

Coverage and price comparison of cefdinir and amoxicillin

Cefdinir and amoxicillin are widely available as generic antibiotics. Almost all Medicare Part D plans and insurance cover cefdinir and amoxicillin. A typical retail price for a generic cefdinir is over $100. With a SingleCare coupon, that cost can be reduced to under $25 for a 10-day supply of 300mg capsules.

Amoxicillin is available in generic and branded versions. The average cost of generic amoxicillin capsules is about $24. Using a SingleCare discount card can bring the price down to about $5 for a 10-day supply of 500mg capsules.

Get a pharmacy discount card

Common side effects of cefdinir versus amoxicillin

The most common side effects associated with cefdinir and amoxicillin are diarrhea, nausea and vomit.

Amoxicillin is more likely to cause headache when taken with clarithromycin and lansoprazole for Helicobacter pylori infections. Rash may also appear more frequently after taking amoxicillin.

More serious side effects of cefdinir and amoxicillin include allergic or hypersensitivity reactions. If you experience side effects such as difficulty breathing or a severe rash, seek medical attention immediately.

9029 7 yes

	Cefdinir	Amoxicillin 7 Side effect	Applicable?	Frequency	Applicable?	Frequency
Diarrhea	yes	fifteen%	yes	> 1%
Nausea	yes	3%	yes	>1%
Vomiting	yes	0.7%	yes	>1%
Headache	yes	two%	yes	6%
Rash	yes	0. 9%	> 1%

This may not be a complete list. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects.
Source: DailyMed (Cefdinir), DailyMed (Amoxicillin)

Drug Interactions between Cefdinir and Amoxicillin

Cefdinir interacts with antacids and also with iron preparations. Antacids and iron supplements may decrease the absorption of cefdinir and reduce its effectiveness. Cefdinir should be taken at least two hours before or after these other medicines.

Both cefdinir and amoxicillin may interact with gout medications such as probenecid and allopurinol. Gout medications can increase blood levels of cefdinir and amoxicillin, which can lead to increased side effects.

Cefdinir and amoxicillin are known to cause prolonged prochrombin time in those also taking warfarin. This drug interaction may cause an increased risk of bleeding.

Antibiotics are known to reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Alternative methods of birth control may be needed to reduce the risk of pregnancy.

This may not be a complete list of all possible drug interactions. Talk to your doctor about all medications you take.

Cefdinir and amoxicillin warnings

Cefdinir and amoxicillin should be avoided if you are allergic to penicillin. Since these drugs are chemically similar to penicillin, they can cause a severe allergic reaction if you are allergic to penicillin.

Diarrhea is one of the most common side effects of antibiotics such as cefdinir and amoxicillin. These antibiotics may also increase the risk of a more severe type of diarrhea caused by: Clostridium difficile . If you have a history of C. diff infections, you may need to monitor or stop using these antibiotics.

These antibiotics should only be used for infections caused by bacteria. They are not effective against viral infections such as COVID-19. Cefdinir and amoxicillin are most effective when they target sensitive bacteria. If used improperly, bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics and cause a more serious infection.

Frequently asked questions about cefdinir vs amoxicillin

What is cefdinir?

Cefdinir is a third generation cephalosporin used to treat bacterial infections such as acute otitis media and pharyngitis. It is also FDA approved for the treatment of certain skin infections and lower respiratory tract infections. Cefdinir is also known under the brand name Omnicef.

What is amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections of the ear, nose and throat. May also help with lower respiratory tract infections, Helicobacter pylori infections and gonorrhea. Amoxicillin is often combined with clavulanate or clavulanic acid under the brand name Augmentin.

Are cefdinir and amoxicillin the same thing?

Cefdinir and amoxicillin are not the same thing. While both are part of an umbrella group of antibiotics called beta-lactams, they have different nuances in how they are used and dosed.

Is cefdinir or amoxicillin better?

The more effective antibiotic is the one that works best against the bacterial strain causing the infection. For example, amoxicillin is better than Helicobacter pylori infection.