Cefdinir: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of cefdinir for oral suspension USP and other antibacterial drugs, cefdinir for oral suspension USP should be used only to treat or prev
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label 7640dd80…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
| Adverse reaction (as reported in labeling) | Reported frequency* |
|---|---|
| Incidence ≥ 1% | 8% |
| Rash | 3% |
| Vomiting | 1% |
| ↓bicarbonate | 1% |
| ↑eosinophils | 1% |
| ↑lactate dehydrogenase | 1% |
| ↑platelets | 1% |
| ↑urine protein | 1% |
| Incidence < 1% but > 0.1% | 0.9% |
| Abdominal pain | 0.8% |
| ↑urine ph | 0.8% |
| ↓calcium | 0.5% |
| ↓hemoglobin | 0.5% |
| ↑urine leukocytes | 0.5% |
| ↑monocytes | 0.4% |
| Leukopenia | 0.3% |
| ↑ast | 0.3% |
| ↑potassium | 0.3% |
| Hyperkinesia | 0.2% |
| Increased ast | 0.2% |
*Highest percentage reported for the active moiety across placebo-controlled trial tables in current FDA labeling. Values reflect trial reporting, not your individual risk.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of cefdinir for oral suspension USP and other antibacterial drugs, cefdinir for oral suspension USP should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy. Cefdinir for oral suspension USP is indicated for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the conditions listed below. Adults and Adolescents Community-Acquired Pneumonia Caused by Haemophilus influenzae (including β-lactamase producing strains), Haemophilus parainfluenzae (including β-lactamase producing strains), Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains only), and Moraxella catarrhalis (including β-lactamase producing strains) (seeCLINICAL STUDIES). Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis Caused by Haemophilus influe…
Conditions associated with Cefdinir in labeling
Bronchitis
Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, usually viral, causing a productive cough that can last several weeks....
COPD
A group of progressive lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that cause airflow obstructi...
Pneumonia
Infection of the lung tissue that can cause cough, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Can be caused by b...
Rheumatic fever
Rheumatic fever is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
Sinus Infection
Inflammation of the sinuses, often viral or bacterial, causing facial pressure, congestion, and headache....
Tonsillitis
Inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infection, causing sore throat, fever, and swo...
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cefdinir used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Cefdinir?
The table above shows adverse reactions and the highest frequencies reported in placebo-controlled trials summarized in current FDA labeling for Cefdinir. Individual risk varies.
Does Cefdinir require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Cefdinir.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.