Medically reviewed and written by Sarah Mitchell, MD – Board-Certified Infectious Disease Specialist with 15+ years of experience in pediatric and adult bacterial infections. Last updated: November 2025
What Is Omnicef and What Is It Used For?
Omnicef (cefdinir) is an extended-spectrum, third-generation oral cephalosporin antibiotic approved by the FDA in December 1997. It exhibits bactericidal activity against a broad range of gram-positive and gram-negative pathogens commonly implicated in community-acquired infections.
FDA-approved indications include:
- Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP)
- Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
- Acute maxillary sinusitis
- Pharyngitis/tonsillitis (caused by Streptococcus pyogenes)
- Acute otitis media (AOM) in children
- Uncomplicated skin and skin-structure infections
Comparative Table: Cefdinir vs Other Oral Antibiotics for Common Infections
| Infection | Cefdinir | Amoxicillin | Amox/Clav | Azithromycin | Cefuroxime |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strep throat cure rate | 92–96% | 90–95% | 94–98% | 85–90% | 93% |
| H. influenzae coverage | Excellent | Poor | Good | Moderate | Excellent |
| M. catarrhalis (β-lactamase +) | Excellent | None | Excellent | Moderate | Excellent |
| Dosing frequency | Once or twice daily | Three times daily | Twice–three times daily | Once daily | Twice daily |
| Duration for AOM | 5–10 days | 10 days | 10 days | 1–5 days | 10 days |
Dosage and Treatment Regimens (2025 Guidelines)
| Indication | Age Group | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pharyngitis/tonsillitis | ≥13 years | 300 mg | Twice daily | 5–10 days |
| Acute sinusitis | ≥13 years | 300 mg | Twice daily or 600 mg once daily | 10 days |
| Community-acquired pneumonia | ≥13 years | 300 mg | Twice daily | 10 days |
| Skin infections | ≥13 years | 300 mg | Twice daily | 10 days |
| Acute otitis media | 6 months–12 years | 7 mg/kg | Twice daily or 14 mg/kg once daily | 5–10 days |
| All indications | Renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min) | 300 mg (adults) / 7 mg/kg (children) | Once daily | Same |
Side Effects Profile (IDSA & FDA Post-Marketing Data)
- Diarrhea – 8–15% (higher in children)
- Nausea – 3%
- Abdominal pain – 1–2%
- Rash – 1–3%
- C. difficile-associated diarrhea – <1% but serious
Patient Reviews (Real-World Experience 2024–2025)
Emily R., 34, Ohio ★★★★★
“My daughter (4 yo) had recurrent ear infections. Omnicef cleared it in 5 days with the once-daily dose – strawberry flavor she actually liked.”
Michael T., 49, Texas ★★★★★
“Sinus infection gone in 7 days. No stomach issues unlike with Augmentin.”
Jennifer L., 29, Florida ★★★★☆
“Worked great for strep throat, but I did have mild diarrhea for 2 days.”
David P., 57, Arizona ★★★★★
“Bronchitis cleared faster than Z-Pak ever did for me. No side effects at all.”
Samantha K., 38, California ★★★★★
“Best antibiotic for my kids – once-daily dosing makes life so much easier.”
Official Sources & References
- FDA Label – Omnicef Prescribing Information
- PubMed – Cefdinir vs. amoxicillin/clavulanate in acute otitis media
- EMA – Cefdinir EMA Assessment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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