What is cefdinir usually prescribed for? A comprehensive guide

October 12, 2025 •

3 min read

Cefdinir, a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, is prescribed for a wide range of bacterial infections in both adults and children. It works by killing bacteria and is ineffective against viruses, including the common cold or flu.

Quick Summary

Cefdinir is an oral antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections like pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, strep throat, and skin infections in adults and children, as well as ear infections in children.

Key Points

Broad Spectrum Activity: Cefdinir is a third-generation cephalosporin that effectively treats a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial infections.
Common Indications: It is typically prescribed for respiratory tract infections like pneumonia and bronchitis, ear infections (acute otitis media), throat and sinus infections, and uncomplicated skin infections.
Administration Frequency: Cefdinir can be taken once or twice daily, depending on the infection, offering dosing convenience for patients.
Not for Viruses: This medication is only for bacterial infections and will not work against viral illnesses, such as the common cold or flu.
Important Interactions: Cefdinir absorption can be affected by antacids and iron supplements, which should be taken at least two hours apart.
Risk of C. diff: Like many antibiotics, cefdinir can cause severe diarrhea related to a Clostridioides difficile infection.

What is cefdinir?

Cefdinir is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic available in capsule and oral suspension forms. It's effective against various bacteria by inhibiting cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial death. Cefdinir is only for bacterial infections, not viruses, and misuse can cause antibiotic resistance.

Conditions treated by cefdinir

Cefdinir treats a variety of mild to moderate bacterial infections, with specific uses varying by age and infection type. For a comprehensive list of conditions treated by cefdinir, consult {Link: MedCentral https://www.medcentral.com/drugs/monograph/5543-398001/cefdinir-oral}. These include:

Respiratory Tract Infections

Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP): Used in adults and adolescents for CAP caused by susceptible bacteria.
Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis: Treats sudden bacterial flare-ups in adults and adolescents.
Acute Maxillary Sinusitis: Approved for bacterial sinus infections in adults and children 6 months and older.

Ear, Nose, and Throat Infections

Acute Otitis Media (AOM): Treats ear infections in children 6 months to 12 years, especially for those with penicillin allergies.
Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis: Effective for strep throat in adults and children 6 months and older. A course of treatment with cefdinir has shown comparable effectiveness to a course of penicillin V for this condition.

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

Uncomplicated Skin Infections: Prescribed for mild to moderate skin infections caused by susceptible Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. It has comparable efficacy to cephalexin.

Administration

Cefdinir is taken orally, and can be taken with or without food. The oral suspension needs shaking before use. The frequency of administration varies by condition. Completing the full course is essential to prevent infection resurgence and antibiotic resistance.

Cefdinir vs. other common antibiotics


Feature	Cefdinir	Amoxicillin	Cephalexin
Drug Class	Cephalosporin (3rd-gen)	Penicillin	Cephalosporin (1st-gen)
Typical Administration	Once or twice daily	Multiple times daily	Multiple times daily
Spectrum	Broad (gram-pos & gram-neg)	Broad (gram-pos & some gram-neg)	Broad (gram-pos & some gram-neg)
Usage	Respiratory, ear, sinus, throat, skin infections	Respiratory, ear, sinus, throat, skin, UTI, H. pylori infections	Respiratory, ear, skin, bone, UTI infections
Best For...	Penicillin-allergic patients needing once-daily option, specific strep strains	First-line for many infections, broad coverage	Alternative for penicillin allergy, effective on many skin infections
Penicillin Allergy Risk	Cross-sensitivity can occur, but may be safer for mild allergies	Direct penicillin class, high risk	Cross-sensitivity possible

Risks and side effects

Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and rash. The oral suspension contains sucrose, which may affect blood sugar in diabetic patients. Serious rare side effects include C. difficile infection, causing severe diarrhea, and allergic reactions, which are medical emergencies.

Drug interactions can reduce cefdinir's effectiveness. Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, and iron supplements, should be taken at least two hours before or after cefdinir.

Conclusion

Cefdinir is an effective oral antibiotic for various bacterial infections in the respiratory tract, ears, throat, and skin. Its administration frequency and broad-spectrum activity make it a convenient option for adults and children. While generally well-tolerated, be aware of side effects and drug interactions. Always complete the prescribed course to eradicate the infection and combat antibiotic resistance. Consult MedlinePlus for more clinical information.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, cefdinir is an antibiotic that specifically targets bacteria. It is not effective against viruses, so it will not work for viral illnesses such as the common cold or flu.

You should begin to feel better within the first few days of treatment with cefdinir. However, the full prescribed course must be completed to ensure the infection is completely treated.

Cefdinir is typically administered orally to adults, and the frequency of administration depends on the specific infection being treated. The duration of therapy is usually for a specified number of days.

No, cefdinir can be taken with or without food. However, it should be taken at least two hours before or after antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, or any iron supplements.

The most common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and skin rash. In rare cases, more serious side effects like severe diarrhea from C. difficile can occur.

Cefdinir is FDA-approved for certain bacterial infections in children aged 6 months and older. Administration is based on the child's weight and the type of infection.

There is a risk of cross-sensitivity between penicillin and cephalosporin antibiotics like cefdinir. Your doctor will determine if cefdinir is a safe alternative for you, especially if your penicillin allergy was mild.