Generic Name

Cefdinir

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Classification

FDA Approved Indications

• Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections
• Pharyngitis and tonsillitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes
• Otitis media (middle ear infections)
• Sinusitis

Mechanism of Action

Cefdinir inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell lysis and death.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: 300 mg every 12 hours or 600 mg once daily for 5-10 days, depending on infection severity.

Pediatric: 14 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours; maximum dose typically not exceeding adult doses.

Geriatric: Adjust dose based on renal function; no specific dose reduction required in absence of renal impairment.

Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment needed; typically reduce frequency or dose depending on severity.

Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustment required but caution advised.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed orally, with bioavailability around 50-70%.

Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues and fluids.

Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism, predominantly excreted unchanged.

Excretion: Primarily renal excretion via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.

Half Life: Approximately 1.7 hours.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or penicillins.

Precautions

• History of allergic reactions to beta-lactam antibiotics, renal impairment, antibiotic-associated colitis.

Adverse Reactions - Common

• Diarrhea (Common)
• Nausea (Common)
• Rash (Uncommon)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

• Anaphylaxis (Rare)
• Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

• Probenecid (may increase cefdinir levels)

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Patient/Family Teaching

• Take medication exactly as prescribed and complete the full course.
• Report signs of allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Notify healthcare provider if diarrhea worsens or persists.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

• None currently for cefdinir.

Genetic Factors: None specific.

Lab Test Interference: May cause false-positive urine glucose tests with glucose oxidase methods.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain.

Treatment: Supportive care; hemodialysis may be considered in severe cases.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

Stability: Stable up to the expiration date printed on the packaging.