Omnicef

Overview

About Omnicef

SUSPENSION

More common side effects may include:
Diarrhea, rash

Why should Omnicef not be prescribed?

If you've ever had an allergic reaction to a cephalosporin antibiotic, you should not take this medication. Note, too, that if you are allergic to penicillin, you may also be allergic to cephalosporins. The reaction can be extremely severe. Be sure to let the doctor know about any allergies you may have.

Special warnings about Omnicef

Use Omnicef with caution if you suffer from colitis (inflammation of the bowel). Omnicef has been known to cause colitis. If you develop symptoms such as diarrhea while taking this medication, notify your doctor.

The use of an antibiotic to kill one type of germ can sometimes promote the growth of other germs that are resistant to the drug. If a new infection (called a superinfection) occurs, alert your doctor. You may need to take a different antibiotic.

If you suffer from seizures, use Omnicef with caution. If you have a seizure while using Omnicef, stop taking it and call your doctor immediately.

Omnicef suspension contains 2.86 grams of sugar per teaspoonful. If a child is diabetic, this could cause an increase in blood sugar levels.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Omnicef

If Omnicef is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Omnicef with the following:

Antacids such as Maalox and Mylanta
Iron supplements
Multivitamins containing iron
Probenecid (Benemid)

The combination of iron and Omnicef sometimes turns the stool red. This is not a cause for concern.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Omnicef during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant, inform your doctor. Omnicef does not appear in breast milk.