Label: CEFDINIR capsule

  • Category: HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL

Drug Label Information

Updated March 20, 2012

If you are a healthcare professional or from the pharmaceutical industry please visit this version.

View All Sections
  • SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION

    To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of cefdinir capsules and other antibacterial drugs, cefdinir capsules should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria.

  • DESCRIPTION

    Cefdinir capsules contain the active ingredient cefdinir, an extended-spectrum, semisynthetic cephalosporin, for oral administration. Chemically, cefdinir is (6R,7R)-7-[[(2Z)-(2-amino-4-thiazolyl)(hydroxyimino)acetyl]amino]-3-ethenyl-8-oxo-5-thia-1-azabicyclo[4.2.0]oct-2-ene-2-carboxylic acid. Cefdinir is a white to light yellow crystalline powder. Its solubility is 19.56 mg/mL in 0.1 M pH 7.0 phosphate buffer. Cefdinir has the structural formula shown below:

    chemical structure for cefdinir

    C14H13N5O5S2 M.W. 395.41

    Cefdinir capsules contain 300 mg cefdinir and the following inactive ingredients: carboxymethylcellulose calcium, colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, D&C red #28, D&C yellow #10, D&C yellow #10 aluminum lake, FD&C blue #1, FD&C blue #1 aluminum lake, FD&C blue #2 aluminum lake, FD&C green #3, FD&C red #40, FD&C red #40 aluminum lake, gelatin, iron oxide black, magnesium stearate, polyoxyl 40 stearate, propylene glycol, shellac glaze, sodium lauryl sulfate, and titanium dioxide.

  • CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

    Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism

    Absorption

    Oral bioavailability

    Maximal plasma cefdinir concentrations occur 2 to 4 hours postdose following capsule administration. Plasma cefdinir concentrations increase with dose, but the increases are less than dose-proportional from 300 mg (7 mg/kg) to 600 mg (14 mg/kg). Following administration of suspension to healthy adults, cefdinir bioavailability is 120% relative to capsules. Estimated bioavailability of cefdinir capsules is 21% following administration of a 300 mg capsule dose, and 16% following administration of a 600 mg capsule dose.

    Effect of food

    The Cmax and AUC of cefdinir from the capsules are reduced by 16% and 10%, respectively, when given with a high-fat meal. The magnitude of these reductions is not likely to be clinically significant because the safety and efficacy studies of oral suspension in pediatric patients were conducted without regard to food intake. Therefore, cefdinir may be taken without regard to food.

    Cefdinir capsules

    Cefdinir plasma concentrations and pharmacokinetic parameter values following administration of single 300 and 600 mg oral doses of cefdinir to adult subjects are presented in the following table:

    Mean (± SD) Plasma Cefdinir Pharmacokinetic Parameter Values Following Administration of Capsules to Adult Subjects
    DoseCmax (mcg/mL)tmax (hr)AUC (mcg•hr/mL)
    300 mg1.602.97.05
    (0.55)(0.89)(2.17)
    600 mg2.873.011.1
    (1.01)(0.66)(3.87)

    Multiple dosing

    Cefdinir does not accumulate in plasma following once- or twice-daily administration to subjects with normal renal function.

    Distribution

    The mean volume of distribution (Vdarea) of cefdinir in adult subjects is 0.35 L/kg (± 0.29); in pediatric subjects (age 6 months to 12 years), cefdinir Vdarea is 0.67 L/kg (± 0.38). Cefdinir is 60% to 70% bound to plasma proteins in both adult and pediatric subjects; binding is independent of concentration.

    Skin blister

    In adult subjects, median (range) maximal blister fluid cefdinir concentrations of 0.65 (0.33 to 1.1) and 1.1 (0.49 to 1.9) mcg/mL were observed 4 to 5 hours following administration of 300 and 600 mg doses, respectively. Mean (± SD) blister Cmax and AUC(0-∞) values were 48% (± 13) and 91% (± 18) of corresponding plasma values.

    Tonsil tissue

    In adult patients undergoing elective tonsillectomy, respective median tonsil tissue cefdinir concentrations 4 hours after administration of single 300 and 600 mg doses were 0.25 (0.22 to 0.46) and 0.36 (0.22 to 0.80) mcg/g. Mean tonsil tissue concentrations were 24% (± 8) of corresponding plasma concentrations.

    Sinus tissue

    In adult patients undergoing elective maxillary and ethmoid sinus surgery, respective median sinus tissue cefdinir concentrations 4 hours after administration of single 300 and 600 mg doses were < 0.12 (< 0.12 to 0.46) and 0.21 (< 0.12 to 2.0) mcg/g. Mean sinus tissue concentrations were 16% (± 20) of corresponding plasma concentrations.

    Lung tissue

    In adult patients undergoing diagnostic bronchoscopy, respective median bronchial mucosa cefdinir concentrations 4 hours after administration of single 300 and 600 mg doses were 0.78 (< 0.06 to 1.33) and 1.14 (< 0.06 to 1.92) mcg/mL, and were 31% (± 18) of corresponding plasma concentrations. Respective median epithelial lining fluid concentrations were 0.29 (< 0.3 to 4.73) and 0.49 (< 0.3 to 0.59) mcg/mL, and were 35% (± 83) of corresponding plasma concentrations.

    Middle ear fluid

    In 14 pediatric patients with acute bacterial otitis media, respective median middle ear fluid cefdinir concentrations 3 hours after administration of single 7 and 14 mg/kg doses were 0.21 (< 0.09 to 0.94) and 0.72 (0.14 to 1.42) mcg/mL. Mean middle ear fluid concentrations were 15% (± 15) of corresponding plasma concentrations.

    CSF

    Data on cefdinir penetration into human cerebrospinal fluid are not available.

    Metabolism and Excretion

    Cefdinir is not appreciably metabolized. Activity is primarily due to parent drug. Cefdinir is eliminated principally via renal excretion with a mean plasma elimination half-life (t1/2) of 1.7 (± 0.6) hours. In healthy subjects with normal renal function, renal clearance is 2.0 (± 1.0) mL/min/kg, and apparent oral clearance is 11.6 (± 6.0) and 15.5 (± 5.4) mL/min/kg following doses of 300 and 600 mg, respectively. Mean percent of dose recovered unchanged in the urine following 300 and 600 mg doses is 18.4% (± 6.4) and 11.6% (± 4.6), respectively. Cefdinir clearance is reduced in patients with renal dysfunction (see Special Populations, Patients with renal insufficiency).

    Because renal excretion is the predominant pathway of elimination, dosage should be adjusted in patients with markedly compromised renal function or who are undergoing hemodialysis (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

    Special Populations

    Patients with renal insufficiency

    Cefdinir pharmacokinetics were investigated in 21 adult subjects with varying degrees of renal function. Decreases in cefdinir elimination rate, apparent oral clearance (CL/F), and renal clearance were approximately proportional to the reduction in creatinine clearance (CLcr). As a result, plasma cefdinir concentrations were higher and persisted longer in subjects with renal impairment than in those without renal impairment. In subjects with CLcr between 30 and 60 mL/min, Cmax and t1/2 increased by approximately 2 fold and AUC by approximately 3 fold. In subjects with CLcr < 30 mL/min, Cmax increased by approximately 2 fold, t1/2 by approximately 5 fold, and AUC by approximately 6 fold. Dosage adjustment is recommended in patients with markedly compromised renal function (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min; see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

    Hemodialysis

    Cefdinir pharmacokinetics were studied in 8 adult subjects undergoing hemodialysis. Dialysis (4 hours duration) removed 63% of cefdinir from the body and reduced apparent elimination t1/2 from 16 (± 3.5) to 3.2 (± 1.2) hours. Dosage adjustment is recommended in this patient population (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

    Hepatic disease

    Because cefdinir is predominantly renally eliminated and not appreciably metabolized, studies in patients with hepatic impairment were not conducted. It is not expected that dosage adjustment will be required in this population.

    Geriatric patients

    The effect of age on cefdinir pharmacokinetics after a single 300 mg dose was evaluated in 32 subjects 19 to 91 years of age. Systemic exposure to cefdinir was substantially increased in older subjects (N = 16), Cmax by 44% and AUC by 86%. This increase was due to a reduction in cefdinir clearance. The apparent volume of distribution was also reduced, thus no appreciable alterations in apparent elimination t1/2 were observed (elderly: 2.2 ± 0.6 hours vs young: 1.8 ± 0.4 hours). Since cefdinir clearance has been shown to be primarily related to changes in renal function rather than age, elderly patients do not require dosage adjustment unless they have markedly compromised renal function (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min, see Patients with renal insufficiency).

    Gender and race

    The results of a meta-analysis of clinical pharmacokinetics (N = 217) indicated no significant impact of either gender or race on cefdinir pharmacokinetics.

    Microbiology

    As with other cephalosporins, bactericidal activity of cefdinir results from inhibition of cell wall synthesis. Cefdinir is stable in the presence of some, but not all, β-lactamase enzymes. As a result, many organisms resistant to penicillins and some cephalosporins are susceptible to cefdinir.

    Cefdinir has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections as described in INDICATIONS AND USAGE.

    Aerobic Gram-Positive Microorganisms

    Staphylococcus aureus (including β-lactamase producing strains)

    NOTE: Cefdinir is inactive against methicillin-resistant staphylococci.

    Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains only)

    Streptococcus pyogenes

    Aerobic Gram-Negative Microorganisms

    Haemophilus influenzae (including β-lactamase producing strains)

    Haemophilus parainfluenzae (including β-lactamase producing strains)

    Moraxella catarrhalis (including β-lactamase producing strains)

    The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown.

    Cefdinir exhibits in vitro minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 1 mcg/mL or less against (≥ 90%) strains of the following microorganisms; however, the safety and effectiveness of cefdinir in treating clinical infections due to these microorganisms have not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials.

    Aerobic Gram-Positive Microorganisms

    Staphylococcus epidermidis (methicillin-susceptible strains only)

    Streptococcus agalactiae

    Viridans group streptococci

    NOTE: Cefdinir is inactive against Enterococcus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus species.

    Aerobic Gram-Negative Microorganisms

    Citrobacter diversus

    Escherichia coli

    Klebsiella pneumoniae

    Proteus mirabilis

    NOTE: Cefdinir is inactive against Pseudomonas and Enterobacter species.

    Susceptibility Tests

    Dilution techniques

    Quantitative methods are used to determine antimicrobial minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). These MICs provide estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. The MICs should be determined using a standardized procedure. Standardized procedures are based on a dilution method1 (broth or agar) or equivalent with standardized inoculum concentrations and standardized concentrations of cefdinir powder. The MIC values should be interpreted according to the following criteria:

    For organisms other than Haemophilus spp. and Streptococcus spp:

    MIC (mcg/mL)Interpretation
    ≤ 1Susceptible (S)
    2Intermediate (I)
    ≥ 4Resistant (R)

    For Haemophilus spp:a

    MIC (mcg/mL)Interpretationb
    ≤ 1Susceptible (S)

    a These interpretive standards are applicable only to broth microdilution susceptibility tests with Haemophilus spp. using Haemophilus Test Medium (HTM).1

    b The current absence of data on resistant strains precludes defining any results other than “Susceptible.” Strains yielding MIC results suggestive of a “nonsusceptible” category should be submitted to a reference laboratory for further testing.

    For Streptococcus spp:

    Streptococcus pneumoniae that are susceptible to penicillin (MIC ≤ 0.06 mcg/mL), or streptococci other than S. pneumoniae that are susceptible to penicillin (MIC ≤ 0.12 mcg/mL), can be considered susceptible to cefdinir. Testing of cefdinir against penicillin-intermediate or penicillin-resistant isolates is not recommended. Reliable interpretive criteria for cefdinir are not available.

    A report of "Susceptible" indicates that the pathogen is likely to be inhibited if the antimicrobial compound in the blood reaches the concentration usually achievable. A report of "Intermediate" indicates that the result should be considered equivocal, and, if the microorganism is not fully susceptible to alternative, clinically feasible drugs, the test should be repeated. This category implies possible clinical applicability in body sites where the drug is physiologically concentrated or in situations where high dosage of drug can be used. This category also provides a buffer zone which prevents small uncontrolled technical factors from causing major discrepancies in interpretation. A report of "Resistant" indicates that the pathogen is not likely to be inhibited if the antimicrobial compound in the blood reaches the concentrations usually achievable; other therapy should be selected.

    Standardized susceptibility test procedures require the use of laboratory control microorganisms to control the technical aspects of laboratory procedures. Standard cefdinir powder should provide the following MIC values:

    MicroorganismMIC Range (mcg/mL)
    Escherichia coli ATCC 259220.12 to 0.5
    Haemophilus influenzae ATCC 49766c0.12 to 0.5
    Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 292130.12 to 0.5

    c This quality control range is applicable only to H.influenzae ATCC 49766 tested by a broth microdilution procedure using HTM.

    Diffusion techniques

    Quantitative methods that require measurement of zone diameters also provide reproducible estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. One such standardized procedure2 requires the use of standardized inoculum concentrations. This procedure uses paper disks impregnated with 5 mcg cefdinir to test the susceptibility of microorganisms to cefdinir.

    Reports from the laboratory providing results of the standard single-disk susceptibility test with a 5 mcg cefdinir disk should be interpreted according to the following criteria:

    For organisms other than Haemophilus spp. and Streptococcus spp:d

    Zone Diameter (mm)Interpretation
    ≥ 20Susceptible (S)
    17 to 19Intermediate (I)
    ≤ 16Resistant (R)

    d Because certain strains of Citrobacter, Providencia, and Enterobacter spp. have been reported to give false susceptible results with the cefdinir disk, strains of these genera should not be tested and reported with this disk.

    For Haemophilus spp:e

    Zone Diameter (mm)Interpretationf
    ≥ 20Susceptible (S)

    e These zone diameter standards are applicable only to tests with Haemophilus spp. using HTM.2

    f The current absence of data on resistant strains precludes defining any results other than “Susceptible.” Strains yielding MIC results suggestive of a “nonsusceptible” category should be submitted to a reference laboratory for further testing.

    For Streptococcus spp:

    Isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae should be tested against a 1 mcg oxacillin disk. Isolates with oxacillin zone sizes ≥ 20 mm are susceptible to penicillin and can be considered susceptible to cefdinir. Streptococci other than S. pneumoniae should be tested with a 10 unit penicillin disk. Isolates with penicillin zone sizes ≥ 28 mm are susceptible to penicillin and can be considered susceptible to cefdinir.

    As with standardized dilution techniques, diffusion methods require the use of laboratory control microorganisms to control the technical aspects of laboratory procedures. For the diffusion technique, the 5 mcg cefdinir disk should provide the following zone diameters in these laboratory quality control strains:

    OrganismZone Diameter (mm)
    Escherichia coli ATCC 2592224 to 28
    Haemophilus influenzae ATCC 49766g24 to 31
    Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 2592325 to 32

    g This quality control range is applicable only to testing of H.influenzae ATCC 49766 using HTM.

  • INDICATIONS AND USAGE

    To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of cefdinir capsules and other antibacterial drugs, cefdinir capsules 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 capsules are 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) (see CLINICAL STUDIES).

    Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis

    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).

    Acute Maxillary Sinusitis

    caused by Haemophilus influenzae (including β-lactamase producing strains), Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains only), and Moraxella catarrhalis (including β-lactamase producing strains).

    NOTE: For information on use in pediatric patients, see Pediatric Use and DOSAGE ANDADMINISTRATION.

    Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis

    caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (see CLINICAL STUDIES).

    NOTE: Cefdinir is effective in the eradication of S. pyogenes from the oropharynx. Cefdinir has not, however, been studied for the prevention of rheumatic fever following S. pyogenes pharyngitis/tonsillitis. Only intramuscular penicillin has been demonstrated to be effective for the prevention of rheumatic fever.

    Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections

    caused by Staphylococcus aureus (including β-lactamase producing strains) and Streptococcus pyogenes.

    Pediatric Patients

    Acute Bacterial Otitis Media caused by Haemophilus influenzae (including β-lactamase producing strains), Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains only), and Moraxella catarrhalis (including β-lactamase producing strains).

    Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis

    caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (see CLINICAL STUDIES).

    NOTE: Cefdinir is effective in the eradication of S. pyogenes from the oropharynx. Cefdinir has not, however, been studied for the prevention of rheumatic fever following S. pyogenes pharyngitis/tonsillitis. Only intramuscular penicillin has been demonstrated to be effective for the prevention of rheumatic fever.

    Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections

    caused by Staphylococcus aureus (including β-lactamase producing strains) and Streptococcus pyogenes.

  • CONTRAINDICATIONS

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

  • WARNINGS

    BEFORE THERAPY WITH CEFDINIR IS INSTITUTED, CAREFUL INQUIRY SHOULD BE MADE TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE PATIENT HAS HAD PREVIOUS HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS TO CEFDINIR, OTHER CEPHALOSPORINS, PENICILLINS, OR OTHER DRUGS. IF CEFDINIR IS TO BE GIVEN TO PENICILLIN-SENSITIVE PATIENTS, CAUTION SHOULD BE EXERCISED BECAUSE CROSS-HYPERSENSITIVITY AMONG β-LACTAM ANTIBIOTICS HAS BEEN CLEARLY DOCUMENTED AND MAY OCCUR IN UP TO 10% OF PATIENTS WITH A HISTORY OF PENICILLIN ALLERGY. IF AN ALLERGIC REACTION TO CEFDINIR OCCURS, THE DRUG SHOULD BE DISCONTINUED. SERIOUS ACUTE HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS MAY REQUIRE TREATMENT WITH EPINEPHRINE AND OTHER EMERGENCY MEASURES, INCLUDING OXYGEN, INTRAVENOUS FLUIDS, INTRAVENOUS ANTIHISTAMINES, CORTICOSTEROIDS, PRESSOR AMINES, AND AIRWAY MANAGEMENT, AS CLINICALLY INDICATED.

    Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including cefdinir, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.

    C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.

    If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.

  • PRECAUTIONS

    General

    Prescribing cefdinir capsules in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.

    As with other broad-spectrum antibiotics, prolonged treatment may result in the possible emergence and overgrowth of resistant organisms. Careful observation of the patient is essential. If superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate alternative therapy should be administered.

    Cefdinir, as with other broad-spectrum antimicrobials (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 because high and prolonged plasma concentrations of cefdinir can result following recommended doses (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

    Information for Patients

    Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including cefdinir capsules should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When cefdinir capsules are prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by cefdinir capsules or other antibacterial drugs in the future.

    Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum interfere with the absorption of cefdinir. If this type of antacid is required during cefdinir therapy, cefdinir should be taken at least 2 hours before or after the antacid.

    Iron supplements, including multivitamins that contain iron, interfere with the absorption of cefdinir. If iron supplements are required during cefdinir therapy, cefdinir should be taken at least 2 hours before or after the supplement.

    Iron-fortified infant formula does not significantly interfere with the absorption of cefdinir.

    Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible.

    Drug Interactions

    Antacids (Aluminum- or Magnesium-Containing)

    Concomitant administration of 300 mg cefdinir capsules with 30 mL Maalox® TC suspension reduces the rate (Cmax) and extent (AUC) of absorption by approximately 40%. Time to reach Cmax is also prolonged by 1 hour. There are no significant effects on cefdinir pharmacokinetics if the antacid is administered 2 hours before or 2 hours after cefdinir. If antacids are required during cefdinir therapy, cefdinir should be taken at least 2 hours before or after the antacid.

    Probenecid

    As with other β-lactam antibiotics, probenecid inhibits the renal excretion of cefdinir, resulting in an approximate doubling in AUC, a 54% increase in peak cefdinir plasma levels, and a 50% prolongation in the apparent elimination t1/2.

    Iron Supplements and Foods Fortified With Iron

    Concomitant administration of cefdinir with a therapeutic iron supplement containing 60 mg of elemental iron (as FeSO4) or vitamins supplemented with 10 mg of elemental iron reduced extent of absorption by 80% and 31%, respectively. If iron supplements are required during cefdinir therapy, cefdinir should be taken at least 2 hours before or after the supplement.

    The effect of foods highly fortified with elemental iron (primarily iron-fortified breakfast cereals) on cefdinir absorption has not been studied.

    Concomitantly administered iron-fortified infant formula (2.2 mg elemental iron/6 oz) has no significant effect on cefdinir pharmacokinetics.

    There have been reports of reddish stools in patients receiving cefdinir. In many cases, patients were also receiving iron-containing products. The reddish color is due to the formation of a nonabsorbable complex between cefdinir or its breakdown products and iron in the gastrointestinal tract.

    Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions

    A false-positive reaction for ketones in the urine may occur with tests using nitroprusside, but not with those using nitroferricyanide. The administration of cefdinir may result in a false-positive reaction for glucose in urine using Clinitest®, Benedict's solution, or Fehling's solution. It is recommended that glucose tests based on enzymatic glucose oxidase reactions (such as Clinistix® or Tes-Tape®) be used. Cephalosporins are known to occasionally induce a positive direct Coombs' test.

    Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

    The carcinogenic potential of cefdinir has not been evaluated. No mutagenic effects were seen in the bacterial reverse mutation assay (Ames) or point mutation assay at the hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase locus (HGPRT) in V79 Chinese hamster lung cells. No clastogenic effects were observed in vitro in the structural chromosome aberration assay in V79 Chinese hamster lung cells or in vivo in the micronucleus assay in mouse bone marrow. In rats, fertility and reproductive performance were not affected by cefdinir at oral doses up to 1000 mg/kg/day (70 times the human dose based on mg/kg/day, 11 times based on mg/m2/day).

    Pregnancy

    Teratogenic Effects

    Pregnancy category B

    Cefdinir was not teratogenic in rats at oral doses up to 1000 mg/kg/day (70 times the human dose based on mg/kg/day, 11 times based on mg/m2/day) or in rabbits at oral doses up to 10 mg/kg/day (0.7 times the human dose based on mg/kg/day, 0.23 times based on mg/m2/day). Maternal toxicity (decreased body weight gain) was observed in rabbits at the maximum tolerated dose of 10 mg/kg/day without adverse effects on offspring. Decreased body weight occurred in rat fetuses at ≥ 100 mg/kg/day, and in rat offspring at ≥ 32 mg/kg/day. No effects were observed on maternal reproductive parameters or offspring survival, development, behavior, or reproductive function.

    There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

    Labor and Delivery

    Cefdinir has not been studied for use during labor and delivery.

    Nursing Mothers

    Following administration of single 600 mg doses, cefdinir was not detected in human breast milk.

    Pediatric Use

    Safety and efficacy in neonates and infants less than 6 months of age have not been established. Use of cefdinir for the treatment of acute maxillary sinusitis in pediatric patients (age 6 months through 12 years) is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies in adults and adolescents, the similar pathophysiology of acute sinusitis in adult and pediatric patients, and comparative pharmacokinetic data in the pediatric population.

    Geriatric Use

    Efficacy is comparable in geriatric patients and younger adults. While cefdinir has been well-tolerated in all age groups, in clinical trials geriatric patients experienced a lower rate of adverse events, including diarrhea, than younger adults. Dose adjustment in elderly patients is not necessary unless renal function is markedly compromised (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

  • ADVERSE REACTIONS

    Clinical Trials

    Cefdinir Capsules (Adult and Adolescent Patients)

    In clinical trials, 5093 adult and adolescent patients (3841 U.S. and 1252 non-U.S.) were treated with the recommended dose of cefdinir capsules (600 mg/day). Most adverse events were mild and self-limiting. No deaths or permanent disabilities were attributed to cefdinir. One hundred forty-seven of 5093 (3%) patients discontinued medication due to adverse events thought by the investigators to be possibly, probably, or definitely associated with cefdinir therapy. The discontinuations were primarily for gastrointestinal disturbances, usually diarrhea or nausea. Nineteen of 5093 (0.4%) patients were discontinued due to rash thought related to cefdinir administration.

    In the U.S., the following adverse events were thought by the investigators to be possibly, probably, or definitely related to cefdinir capsules in multiple-dose clinical trials (N = 3841 cefdinir-treated patients):

    ADVERSE EVENTS ASSOCIATED WITH CEFDINIR CAPSULES
    *
    1733 males, 2108 females
    U.S. TRIALS IN ADULT AND ADOLESCENT PATIENTS
    (N = 3841)*
    Incidence ≥ 1%Diarrhea15%
    Vaginal moniliasis4% of women
    Nausea3%
    Headache2%
    Abdominal pain1%
    Vaginitis1% of women
    Incidence < 1% but > 0.1%Rash0.9%
    Dyspepsia0.7%
    Flatulence0.7%
    Vomiting0.7%
    Abnormal stools0.3%
    Anorexia0.3%
    Constipation0.3%
    Dizziness0.3%
    Dry mouth0.3%
    Asthenia0.2%
    Insomnia0.2%
    Leukorrhea0.2% of women
    Moniliasis0.2%
    Pruritus0.2%
    Somnolence0.2%

    The following laboratory value changes of possible clinical significance, irrespective of relationship to therapy with cefdinir, were seen during clinical trials conducted in the U.S.:

    LABORATORY VALUE CHANGES OBSERVED WITH CEFDINIR CAPSULES
    *
    N < 3841 for these parameters
    U.S. TRIALS IN ADULT AND ADOLESCENT PATIENTS
    (N = 3841)
    Incidence ≥ 1%↑ Urine leukocytes2%
    ↑ Urine protein2%
    ↑ Gamma-glutamyltransferase*1%
    ↓ Lymphocytes, ↑ Lymphocytes1%, 0.2%
    ↑ Microhematuria1%
    Incidence < 1% but > 0.1%↑ Glucose*0.9%
    ↑ Urine glucose0.9%
    ↑ White blood cells, ↓ White blood cells0.9%, 0.7%
    ↑Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)0.7%
    ↑ Eosinophils0.7%
    ↑ Urine specific gravity, ↓ Urine specific gravity*0.6%, 0.2%
    ↓ Bicarbonate*0.6%
    ↑ Phosphorus, ↓ Phosphorus*0.6%, 0.3%
    ↑ Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)0.4%
    ↑ Alkaline phosphatase0.3%
    ↑ Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)0.3%
    ↓ Hemoglobin0.3%
    ↑ Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs), ↓ PMNs0.3%, 0.2%
    ↑ Bilirubin0.2%
    ↑ Lactate dehydrogenase*0.2%
    ↑ Platelets0.2%
    ↑ Potassium*0.2%
    ↑ Urine pH*0.2%

    Postmarketing Experience

    The following adverse experiences and altered laboratory tests, regardless of their relationship to cefdinir, have been reported during extensive postmarketing experience, beginning with approval in Japan in 1991: shock, anaphylaxis with rare cases of fatality, facial and laryngeal edema, feeling of suffocation, serum sickness-like reactions, conjunctivitis, stomatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, exfoliative dermatitis, erythema multiforme, erythema nodosum, acute hepatitis, cholestasis, fulminant hepatitis, hepatic failure, jaundice, increased amylase, acute enterocolitis, bloody diarrhea, hemorrhagic colitis, melena, pseudomembranous colitis, pancytopenia, granulocytopenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, hemolytic anemia, acute respiratory failure, asthmatic attack, drug-induced pneumonia, eosinophilic pneumonia, idiopathic interstitial pneumonia, fever, acute renal failure, nephropathy, bleeding tendency, coagulation disorder, disseminated intravascular coagulation, upper GI bleed, peptic ulcer, ileus, loss of consciousness, allergic vasculitis, possible cefdinir-diclofenac interaction, cardiac failure, chest pain, myocardial infarction, hypertension, involuntary movements, and rhabdomyolysis.

    Cephalosporin Class Adverse Events

    The following adverse events and altered laboratory tests have been reported for cephalosporin-class antibiotics in general:

    Allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme, toxic epidermal necrolysis, renal dysfunction, toxic nephropathy, hepatic dysfunction including cholestasis, aplastic anemia, hemolytic anemia, hemorrhage, false-positive test for urinary glucose, neutropenia, pancytopenia, and agranulocytosis. Pseudomembranous colitis symptoms may begin during or after antibiotic treatment (see WARNINGS).

    Several cephalosporins have been implicated in triggering seizures, particularly in patients with renal impairment when the dosage was not reduced (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and OVERDOSAGE). If seizures associated with drug therapy occur, the drug should be discontinued. Anticonvulsant therapy can be given if clinically indicated.

  • OVERDOSAGE

    Information on cefdinir overdosage in humans is not available. In acute rodent toxicity studies, a single oral 5600 mg/kg dose produced no adverse effects. Toxic signs and symptoms following overdosage with other β-lactam antibiotics have included nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and convulsions. Hemodialysis removes cefdinir from the body. This may be useful in the event of a serious toxic reaction from overdosage, particularly if renal function is compromised.

  • DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

    (See INDICATIONS AND USAGE for Indicated Pathogens.)

    Capsules

    The recommended dosage and duration of treatment for infections in adults and adolescents are described in the following chart; the total daily dose for all infections is 600 mg. Once-daily dosing for 10 days is as effective as BID dosing. Once-daily dosing has not been studied in pneumonia or skin infections; therefore, cefdinir capsules should be administered twice daily in these infections. Cefdinir capsules may be taken without regard to meals.

    Adults and Adolescents (Age 13 Years and Older)
    Type of InfectionDosageDuration
    Community-Acquired Pneumonia300 mg q12h10 days
    Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis300 mg q12h5 to 10 days
    or
    600 mg q24h10 days
    Acute Maxillary Sinusitis300 mg q12h10 days
    or
    600 mg q24h10 days
    Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis300 mg q12h5 to 10 days
    or
    600 mg q24h 10 days
    Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections300 mg q12h10 days

    Pediatric Patients

    Alternate dosage forms of cefdinir (e.g., cefdinir for oral suspension) may be best suited for pediatric dosing. The recommended dosage and duration of treatment for infections in pediatric patients are described in the following chart; the total daily dose for all infections is 14 mg/kg, up to a maximum dose of 600 mg per day. Once-daily dosing for 10 days is as effective as BID dosing. Once-daily dosing has not been studied in skin infections; therefore, cefdinir for oral suspension should be administered twice daily in this infection. Cefdinir for oral suspension may be administered without regard to meals.

    Pediatric Patients (Age 6 Months Through 12 Years)
    Type of InfectionDosageDuration
    Acute Bacterial Otitis Media7 mg/kg q12h5 to 10 days
    or
    14 mg/kg q24h10 days
    Acute Maxillary Sinusitis7 mg/kg q12h10 days
    or
    14 mg/kg q24h10 days
    Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis7 mg/kg q12h5 to 10 days
    or
    14 mg/kg q24h10 days
    Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections7 mg/kg q12h10 days
    Pediatric patients who weigh ≥ 43 kg should receive the maximum daily dose of 600 mg.

    Patients With Renal Insufficiency

    For adult patients with creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min, the dose of cefdinir should be 300 mg given once daily.

    Creatinine clearance is difficult to measure in outpatients. However, the following formula may be used to estimate creatinine clearance (CLcr) in adult patients. For estimates to be valid, serum creatinine levels should reflect steady-state levels of renal function.

    Males: CLcr =   (weight) (140 – age)
      (72) (serum creatinine)
    Females:    CLcr = 0.85 x above value

    where creatinine clearance is in mL/min, age is in years, weight is in kilograms, and serum creatinine is in mg/dL.3

    The following formula may be used to estimate creatinine clearance in pediatric patients:

    CLcr = K ×body length or height
    serum creatinine

    where K = 0.55 for pediatric patients older than 1 year4 and 0.45 for infants (up to 1 year).5

    In the above equation, creatinine clearance is in mL/min/1.73 m2, body length or height is in centimeters, and serum creatinine is in mg/dL.

    For pediatric patients with a creatinine clearance of < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2, the dose of cefdinir should be 7 mg/kg (up to 300 mg) given once daily.

    Patients on Hemodialysis

    Hemodialysis removes cefdinir from the body. In patients maintained on chronic hemodialysis, the recommended initial dosage regimen is a 300 mg or 7 mg/kg dose every other day. At the conclusion of each hemodialysis session, 300 mg (or 7 mg/kg) should be given. Subsequent doses (300 mg or 7 mg/kg) are then administered every other day.

  • HOW SUPPLIED

    Cefdinir capsules are available as follows:

    300 mg - hard gelatin capsules with a light green-opaque body and a lavender-opaque cap, imprinted with “93” over “3160” on both body and cap, in bottles of 5.

    Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].

    Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP, with a child-resistant closure (as required).

  • CLINICAL STUDIES

    Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia

    In a controlled, double-blind study in adults and adolescents conducted in the U.S., cefdinir BID was compared with cefaclor 500 mg TID. Using strict evaluability and microbiologic/clinical response criteria 6 to 14 days posttherapy, the following clinical cure rates, presumptive microbiologic eradication rates, and statistical outcomes were obtained:

    U.S. Community-Acquired Pneumonia Study Cefdinir vs Cefaclor
      Cefdinir BIDCefaclor TIDOutcome
    Clinical Cure Rates 150/187 (80%) 147/186 (79%) Cefdinir equivalent to control
    Eradication Rates    
    Overall 177/195 (91%) 184/200 (92%) Cefdinir equivalent to control
    S. pneumoniae 31/31 (100%) 35/35 (100%)  
    H. influenzae 55/65 (85%)60/72 (83%)
    M. catarrhalis 10/10 (100%)11/11 (100%)
    H. parainfluenzae81/89 (91%)78/82 (95%)

    In a second controlled, investigator-blind study in adults and adolescents conducted primarily in Europe, cefdinir BID was compared with amoxicillin/clavulanate 500/125 mg TID. Using strict evaluability and clinical response criteria 6 to 14 days posttherapy, the following clinical cure rates, presumptive microbiologic eradication rates, and statistical outcomes were obtained:

    European Community-Acquired Pneumonia Study Cefdinir vs Amoxicillin/Clavulanate
    Cefdinir BIDAmoxicillin/ Clavulanate TIDOutcome
    Clinical Cure Rates 83/104 (80%)86/97 (89%)Cefdinir not equivalent to control
    Eradication Rates
    Overall85/96 (89%)84/90 (93%)Cefdinir equivalent   to control
    S. pneumoniae 42/44 (95%)43/44 (98%)
    H. influenzae 26/35 (74%)21/26 (81%)
    M. catarrhalis 6/6 (100%)8/8 (100%)
    H. parainfluenzae 11/11 (100%)12/12 (100%)

    Streptococcal Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis

    In four controlled studies conducted in the United States, cefdinir was compared with 10 days of penicillin in adult, adolescent, and pediatric patients. Two studies (one in adults and adolescents, the other in pediatric patients) compared 10 days of cefdinir QD or BID to penicillin 250 mg or 10 mg/kg QID. Using strict evaluability and microbiologic/clinical response criteria 5 to 10 days posttherapy, the following clinical cure rates, microbiologic eradication rates, and statistical outcomes were obtained:

    Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis Studies Cefdinir (10 Days) vs Penicillin (10 Days)
    StudyEfficacy ParameterCefdinir QDCefdinir BIDPenicillin QIDOutcome
    Adults/ AdolescentsEradication of S. pyogenes192/210 (91%)199/217 (92%)181/217 (83%)Cefdinir superior to control
    Clinical Cure Rates199/210 (95%)209/217 (96%)193/217 (89%)Cefdinir superior to control
    Pediatric PatientsEradication of S. pyogenes215/228 (94%)214/227 (94%)159/227 (70%)Cefdinir superior to control
    Clinical Cure  Rates222/228 (97%)218/227 (96%)196/227 (86%)Cefdinir superior to control

    Two studies (one in adults and adolescents, the other in pediatric patients) compared 5 days of cefdinir BID to 10 days of penicillin 250 mg or 10 mg/kg QID. Using strict evaluability and microbiologic/clinical response criteria 4 to 10 days posttherapy, the following clinical cure rates, microbiologic eradication rates, and statistical outcomes were obtained:

    Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis Studies Cefdinir (5 Days) vs Penicillin (10 Days)
    StudyEfficacy ParameterCefdinir BIDPenicillin QIDOutcome
    Adults/ AdolescentsEradication of S. pyogenes 193/218 (89%)176/214 (82%)Cefdinir equivalent to control
    Clinical Cure Rates194/218 (89%)181/214 (85%)Cefdinir equivalent to control
    Pediatric PatientsEradication of S. pyogenes 176/196 (90%)135/193 (70%)Cefdinir superior to control
    Clinical Cure Rates179/196 (91%)173/193 (90%)Cefdinir equivalent to control
  • REFERENCES

    1. National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards. Methods for Dilution Antimicrobial Susceptibility Tests for Bacteria That Grow Aerobically, 4th ed. Approved Standard, NCCLS Document M7-A4, Vol 17(2). NCCLS, Villanova, PA, Jan 1997.

    2. National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards. Performance Standards for Antimicrobial Disk Susceptibility Tests, 6th ed. Approved Standard, NCCLS Document M2-A6, Vol 17(1). NCCLS, Villanova, PA, Jan 1997.

    3. Cockcroft DW, Gault MH. Prediction of creatinine clearance from serum creatinine. Nephron 1976;16:31-41.

    4. Schwartz GJ, Haycock GB, Edelmann CM, Spitzer A. A simple estimate of glomerular filtration rate in children derived from body length and plasma creatinine. Pediatrics 1976;58:259-63.

    5. Schwartz GJ, Feld LG, Langford DJ. A simple estimate of glomerular filtration rate in full-term infants during the first year of life. J Pediatrics 1984;104:849-54.

    Maalox® is a registered trademark of Novartis Consumer Health, Inc.

    Clinitest® is a registered trademark of Miles, Inc.

    Clinistix® is a registered trademark of Bayer Corporation.

    Tes-Tape® is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company.

  • SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION

    Manufactured By:

    TEVA PHARMACEUTICALS USA

    Sellersville, PA 18960

    Rev. F 1/2009

    Repackaged by:

    REBEL DISTRIBUTORS CORP

    Thousand Oaks, CA 91320

  • Principal Display Panel

    Cefdinir 300mg

  • INGREDIENTS AND APPEARANCE
    CEFDINIR 
    cefdinir capsule
    Product Information
    Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC:42254-177(NDC:0093-3160)
    Route of AdministrationORAL
    Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
    Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
    CEFDINIR (UNII: CI0FAO63WC) (CEFDINIR - UNII:CI0FAO63WC) CEFDINIR300 mg
    Inactive Ingredients
    Ingredient NameStrength
    CARBOXYMETHYLCELLULOSE CALCIUM (UNII: UTY7PDF93L)  
    SILICON DIOXIDE (UNII: ETJ7Z6XBU4)  
    CROSCARMELLOSE SODIUM (UNII: M28OL1HH48)  
    D&C RED NO. 28 (UNII: 767IP0Y5NH)  
    D&C YELLOW NO. 10 (UNII: 35SW5USQ3G)  
    ALUMINUM OXIDE (UNII: LMI26O6933)  
    FD&C BLUE NO. 1 (UNII: H3R47K3TBD)  
    FD&C BLUE NO. 2 (UNII: L06K8R7DQK)  
    FD&C GREEN NO. 3 (UNII: 3P3ONR6O1S)  
    FD&C RED NO. 40 (UNII: WZB9127XOA)  
    GELATIN (UNII: 2G86QN327L)  
    FERROSOFERRIC OXIDE (UNII: XM0M87F357)  
    MAGNESIUM STEARATE (UNII: 70097M6I30)  
    POLYOXYL 40 STEARATE (UNII: 13A4J4NH9I)  
    PROPYLENE GLYCOL (UNII: 6DC9Q167V3)  
    SHELLAC (UNII: 46N107B71O)  
    SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (UNII: 368GB5141J)  
    TITANIUM DIOXIDE (UNII: 15FIX9V2JP)  
    Product Characteristics
    ColorGREEN (light green opaque) , PURPLE (lavender opaque) Scoreno score
    ShapeCAPSULESize22mm
    FlavorImprint Code 93;3160
    Contains    
    Packaging
    #Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    1NDC:42254-177-055 in 1 BOTTLE
    Marketing Information
    Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    ANDAANDA06536801/14/2011
    Labeler - Rebel Distributors Corp (118802834)
    Establishment
    NameAddressID/FEIBusiness Operations
    Rebel Distributors Corp118802834RELABEL, REPACK
View All Sections

Find additional resources

(also available in the left menu)

Safety

Report Adverse Events, FDA Safety Recalls, Presence in Breast Milk

Related Resources

Medline Plus, Clinical Trials

More Info on this Drug

Get Label RSS Feed, View NDC Code(s)NEW!