Drug Title

Omnicef (Cefdinir)

Drug Uses
 
Omnicef is a semi synthetic cephalosporin antibiotic that is used in the treatment of bacterial infections of the middle ear (otitis media), tonsils (tonsillitis), throat, larynx (laryngitis), bronchi (bronchitis), lungs (pneumonia), and skin and other soft tissues.

How it is taken

Omnicef can be taken by mouth with or without food. The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor. Here is the suggested dosage schedule for various age groups and infections.

300 mg every 12 hours or 600 mg per day for 5-10 days for adult infections (depends on the severity of the infection)

7 mg/kg every 12 hours or 14 mg/kg per day for 5-10 days for children 6 months to 12 years of age (depends on the severity of the infection)

Drug Class & Mechanism

Omnicef is a semi synthetic cephalosporin antibiotic that is used in the treatment of bacterial infections of the middle ear (otitis media), tonsils (tonsillitis), throat, larynx (laryngitis), bronchi (bronchitis), lungs (pneumonia), and skin and other soft tissues.

It works by breaking the formation of the cell wall of the bacteria and thereby prevents the bacteria from surviving.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Omnicef then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Warnings/Precautions

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, asthma, emphysema/bronchitis along with asthma, certain heart problems (e.g., congestive heart failure, cardiogenic shock, heart block or any conduction/sinus node problems, very slow heartbeat), untreated blood mineral imbalance (electrolyte imbalance), very low blood pressure, kidney or liver problems, artificial heart pacemaker.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Omnicef and contact your doctor immediately.

Certain drugs can interact with Omnicef and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

Omnicef is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Ensure that you inform your doctor and your dentist about Omnicef before receiving any form of medical treatment or dental treatment or emergency surgery.

It has been noted that elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.

Possible Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, gas, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, weakness or changes in sleep habits, muscle aches, sweating, dry mouth, tremors and unusual taste in the mouth. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include allergic reactions, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), sudden weight gain, swelling of the ankles/feet, trouble breathing, unusually fast/slow/irregular heartbeat.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.

Periodic lab tests (EKG, pacemaker testing if applicable) may be recommended to monitor your health while taking the drug. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests