Cefdinir binds to 1 or more of the penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) which inhibit the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis in bacterial cell wall, thus inhibiting biosynthesis and arresting cell wall assembly resulting in bacterial cell death.

Cefdinir is indicated for the treatment of Community Acquired Pneumonia, Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis, Acute Maxillary Sinusitis, Pharyngitis, Tonsillitis, Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure, Infections

Adult: 600 mg daily as a single or in 2 divided doses for 5-10 days.

Child: ≥6 months: 14 mg/kg daily as a single or in 2 divided doses. Max: 600 mg daily.

Cefdinir is contraindicated in patients with known allergy to the cephalosporin class of antibiotics.

Common side effects are Diarrhea, Vaginal moniliasis, Nausea & Vomiting, Headache, Rash etc.

Overdose Effects

Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhoea, convulsions.

Management: Haemodialysis may be useful in the event of a serious toxic reaction particularly if renal function is compromised.

Cefdinir, as with other broad-spectrum antibiotics, should be prescribed with caution in individuals with a history of colitis. In patients with transient or persistent renal insufficiency (creatinine clearance <30 ml/min), the total daily dose of Cefdinir should be reduced.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Following administration of single 600 mg doses, Cefdinir was not detected in human breast milk.