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Omnicef Side Effects

Adverse effects may develop with the use of Omnicef. Side effects can include diarrhea, nausea, unexplained rash, and headache. It is also possible to develop more serious side effects that may require medical attention, such as blurred vision, severe diarrhea, or peeling of the skin. Less than 1 percent of people taking the drug experience rare Omnicef side effects, such as heart or kidney failure.

 

An Introduction to Omnicef Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Omnicef® (cefdinir). However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate Omnicef quite well. If side effects do occur, they are generally minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. In previous research studies, up to 3 percent of adults or adolescents and 2 percent of children stopped taking Omnicef because of side effects.
 
(The Omnicef side effects discussed below are not a complete list of reported side effects. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
 

Common Omnicef Side Effects

Omnicef has been studied extensively in clinical trials, with thousands of people worldwide having been evaluated. In these studies, side effects are always documented. The most common side effects with Omnicef seen in either adults or children included:
 
  • Diarrhea -- up to 15 percent
  • Yeast infection -- up to 4 percent of women
  • Nausea -- up to 3 percent
  • Headache -- up to 2 percent
  • Unexplained rash -- up to 3 percent
  • Vomiting -- up to 1 percent
  • Stomach pain -- up to 1 percent.
     

Serious Omnicef Side Effects

Some Omnicef side effects can indicate a potentially serious problem. If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking Omnicef and call your healthcare provider. These side effects include but are not limited to:
 
  • Blood in stools
  • Severe or watery diarrhea
  • Unusual headaches
  • Blurred vision
  • Unexplained rash
  • Itchy skin
  • Hives
  • Wheezing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of the throat
  • Peeling of the skin.
     
(Omnicef Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;