What to Know About Cefdinir Side Effects

Cefdinir is a widely prescribed antibiotic, and like all medications, it can cause side effects. Most are mild and go away on their own, but a few require prompt medical attention. Understanding what's normal — and what's not — helps you finish your treatment safely.

This guide covers the most common Cefdinir side effects, the serious ones to watch for, and when to contact your doctor.

What Is Cefdinir?

Cefdinir is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, including ear infections, sinus infections, strep throat, bronchitis, pneumonia, and skin infections. It's available as 300 mg capsules and as an oral suspension for children. For a full overview, see our guide on what Cefdinir is and how it's used.

Common Side Effects

The following side effects are the most frequently reported with Cefdinir. They're usually mild and resolve once you finish your course:

• Diarrhea — the most common side effect, affecting up to 15% of patients
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain or stomach discomfort
• Headache
• Vaginal yeast infections — antibiotics can disrupt normal flora
• Reddish or rust-colored stools — this is harmless and caused by Cefdinir interacting with iron in your digestive tract. It is not blood. If you're taking iron-fortified foods, formula, or supplements, this discoloration is expected.

Most of these side effects are dose-related and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication.

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects from Cefdinir are rare but important to recognize. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — symptoms include hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a rapid heartbeat. Call 911 immediately.
• Severe diarrhea or bloody stools — watery diarrhea that persists or includes blood could indicate Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), a potentially dangerous bowel infection. This can occur during or even weeks after finishing Cefdinir.
• Skin reactions — severe rash, blistering, or peeling skin may be a sign of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a rare but serious condition.
• Seizures — rare, and more likely in patients with kidney problems.
• Signs of hemolytic anemia — unusual fatigue, pale skin, dark urine, or rapid heartbeat.
• Superinfection — new or worsening symptoms may indicate a secondary infection with organisms resistant to Cefdinir.

Specific Populations

Children

Cefdinir is approved for children 6 months and older. Side effects in children are similar to adults, with diarrhea being the most common. The reddish stool discoloration is particularly common in children taking the suspension alongside iron-fortified formula — parents should know this is not blood.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

Cefdinir is classified as Pregnancy Category B, meaning animal studies haven't shown harm but there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It does pass into breast milk in small amounts. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.

People With Kidney Problems

Patients with reduced kidney function (creatinine clearance below 30 mL/min) need a lower dose — typically 300 mg once daily instead of twice daily. Those on hemodialysis may take 300 mg every other day. Kidney impairment increases the risk of side effects, including seizures, because the drug is cleared more slowly.

How to Manage Common Side Effects

Here are practical tips for handling the most common Cefdinir side effects:

For Diarrhea

• Stay hydrated — drink plenty of water and electrolyte drinks
• Eat bland foods (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast)
• Consider a probiotic supplement to help restore gut flora
• Avoid dairy products and high-fiber foods until symptoms improve
• Do not take anti-diarrheal medications like Loperamide (Imodium) without asking your doctor — they can mask serious infections like C. difficile

For Nausea

• Take Cefdinir with food to reduce stomach irritation
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoid greasy or spicy foods during your course

For Yeast Infections

• Over-the-counter antifungal treatments (Miconazole, Clotrimazole) are usually effective
• Eating yogurt with live cultures may help prevent yeast overgrowth

For Reddish Stools

• No treatment needed — this is a cosmetic effect from Cefdinir's interaction with iron
• If you're concerned, separate Cefdinir from iron supplements by at least 2 hours (which is already recommended to avoid absorption issues)

Important: Do not stop taking Cefdinir early because of mild side effects. Stopping an antibiotic before completing the full course increases the risk of antibiotic resistance and incomplete treatment. If side effects are severe or intolerable, call your doctor — they may adjust your dose or switch you to a different antibiotic.

Final Thoughts

Most people tolerate Cefdinir well. Diarrhea and mild stomach symptoms are the most common issues, and they usually resolve on their own. The reddish stool discoloration can be alarming but is completely harmless.

The key is knowing when something isn't normal: severe diarrhea, allergic reactions, or unusual bleeding warrant an immediate call to your doctor. When in doubt, reach out — it's always better to ask.

If you're ready to fill your Cefdinir prescription, use Medfinder to check pharmacy availability near you.