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SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS

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About the medicine

How to use SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS

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This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. Always consult a doctor before taking any medication. Seek urgent medical care if symptoms are severe.

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Introduction

Package Leaflet: Information for the User

SPECTRACEF 400 mg film-coated tablets

Cefditoren

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine because it contains important information for you.

  • Keep this leaflet, you may need to read it again.
  • If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
  • This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their signs of illness are the same as yours.
  • If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4.

Contents of the pack

  1. What SPECTRACEF 400 mg film-coated tablets are and what they are used for
  2. What you need to know before you take SPECTRACEF 400 mg film-coated tablets
  3. How to take SPECTRACEF 400 mg film-coated tablets
  4. Possible side effects
  5. Storage of SPECTRACEF 400 mg film-coated tablets
  6. Contents of the pack and other information

1. What SPECTRACEF 400 mg film-coated tablets are and what they are used for

SPECTRACEF belongs to a group of antibiotics called cephalosporins, which work by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall.

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and do not work for viral infections such as the flu or the common cold.

It is important that you follow the instructions regarding dosage, administration interval, and treatment duration as indicated by your doctor.

Do not store or reuse this medication. If you have any leftover antibiotic after completing treatment, return it to the pharmacy for proper disposal. Do not throw away medications via wastewater or trash.

SPECTRACEF is used in adult patients for the treatment of moderate community-acquired pneumonia.

Doctor consultation

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2. What you need to know before you take SPECTRACEF 400 mg film-coated tablets

Do not take SPECTRACEF

  • if you are allergic to antibiotics, particularly penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics, or to any of the other components of this medication (listed in section 6)
  • if you have a casein allergy, you should be aware that this medication contains sodium caseinate
  • if you have a condition called primary carnitine deficiency.

Warnings and precautions

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting to take SPECTRACEF

  • if you have any liver and/or kidney disease
  • if you are receiving anticoagulant therapy
  • if you have a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis
  • if you are receiving treatment with nephrotoxic agents such as aminoglycoside antibiotics or potent diuretics (such as furosemide), as these combinations may have undesirable effects on renal function and have been associated with ototoxicity.

Consult your doctor if you experience any of the following effects during treatment:

  • If during treatment you present any allergic reaction characterized by symptoms such as itching, redness, skin rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
  • If you present diarrhea while taking this medication or once treatment is finished.

As with other antibiotics, prolonged treatment with SPECTRACEF may lead to an overgrowth of non-susceptible microorganisms, which requires the interruption of treatment and the establishment of suitable therapy.

Treatment with SPECTRACEF may interfere with the results of some analytical tests, which may lead to false positives in:

  • The direct Coombs test.
  • Glucose determination in urine.

And false negatives in:

  • Glucose determination in blood or plasma.

Other medications and SPECTRACEF

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken, or may take any other medication.

Between the administration of antacids and SPECTRACEF, it is recommended to wait at least two hours.

The concomitant administration of SPECTRACEF with probenecid increases the amount of cefditoren in the blood.

Concomitant administration of SPECTRACEF with intravenous famotidine is not recommended because it may hinder the achievement of the necessary amount in the blood.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.

SPECTRACEF is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Driving and using machines

SPECTRACEF may cause dizziness and drowsiness, which can interfere with your ability to drive or operate any tool or machine.

SPECTRACEF 400 mg film-coated tablets contain sodium

This medication contains 26.2 mg of sodium (main component of table salt) per tablet. This is equivalent to 1.3% of the maximum recommended daily sodium intake for an adult.

Medicine questions

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3. How to take SPECTRACEF 400 mg film-coated tablets

Follow exactly the administration instructions of this medication as indicated by your doctor or pharmacist. In case of doubt, consult your doctor or pharmacist again. Remember to take your medication. Your doctor will indicate the duration of treatment with SPECTRACEF.

Swallow the tablets whole, with a sufficient amount of liquid (a glass of water) during meals.

The recommended dose of this medication and the frequency of administration is as follows:

Adults and adolescents (over 12 years)

It is recommended to take 1 tablet (400 mg of cefditoren) every 12 hours for 14 days.

Use in children

The use of SPECTRACEF has not been studied in patients under 12 years of age, so its administration is not recommended.

Elderly patients

In elderly patients, no dose adjustments are necessary except in cases of advanced hepatic and/or renal impairment.

Patients with renal insufficiency

No dose adjustment is necessary in patients with mild renal impairment. In patients with moderate renal insufficiency, do not exceed the dose of 200 mg of cefditoren (SPECTRACEF 200 mg) every 12 hours. In patients with severe renal insufficiency, a single dose of 200 mg of cefditoren (SPECTRACEF 200 mg) per day is recommended. The appropriate dose has not been determined in patients undergoing dialysis.

Patients with hepatic insufficiency

In mild or moderate hepatic insufficiency, it is not necessary to modify the treatment regimen. In cases of severe hepatic insufficiency, there is no data available to make a dose recommendation.

If you take more SPECTRACEF than you should

If you have taken more SPECTRACEF than recommended, consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately, or call the Toxicology Information Service, phone 91 562 04 20, indicating the medication and the amount ingested. It is recommended to bring the packaging and leaflet of the medication to the healthcare professional.

If you forget to take SPECTRACEF

In case you have forgotten a dose, take another as soon as possible and continue with the usual schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for forgotten doses.

If you stop treatment with SPECTRACEF

Do not stop treatment before the duration indicated by your doctor, as there is a risk of relapse of the disease.

4. Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Side effects can occur mainly of a gastrointestinal nature.

Very common (more than 1 in 10 people):

  • diarrhea.

Common (1 to 10 in 100 people):

  • headache, nausea, abdominal pain, feeling of indigestion, and vaginal infection.

Uncommon (1 to 10 in 1,000 people):

  • fungal infection
  • anorexia
  • nervousness, dizziness, and sleep disorders
  • pharyngitis, rhinitis, and sinusitis
  • constipation, flatulence, vomiting, oral candidiasis, eructation, dry mouth, and loss of taste
  • liver function alteration
  • skin rash, itching, and urticaria
  • vaginal inflammation and vaginal discharge
  • fever, weakness, and sweating
  • alterations in blood cell count (leukopenia and thrombocytosis), liver function test disorders (elevation of ALT).

Rare (1 to 10 in 10,000 people):

  • hemolytic anemia and lymph node alteration
  • dehydration
  • dementia, depersonalization, emotional weakness, euphoria, hallucinations, and increased libido
  • memory loss, discoordination, increased muscle tone, meningitis, and tremor
  • photosensitivity, visual acuity loss, eye pain, and eyelid inflammation
  • tinnitus
  • heart rhythm alterations, heart failure, and fainting
  • low blood pressure
  • asthma
  • oral ulcers, stomatitis, hemorrhagic colitis, ulcerative colitis, gastrointestinal bleeding, hiccups, tongue inflammation and discoloration, diarrhea associated with Clostridium difficile
  • acne, hair loss, eczema, exfoliative dermatitis (cracked and scaly skin), and herpes simplex
  • muscle pain
  • urination pain, kidney inflammation, alterations in urination frequency, incontinence, and urinary tract infection
  • breast pain, menstrual disorders, and erectile dysfunction
  • body odor and chills
  • alterations in blood cell count (eosinophilia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia), coagulation disorders (prolongation of coagulation time, decrease in thromboplastin time, platelet alteration), liver function test disorders (increase in AST, alkaline phosphatase), alterations in certain blood components (hyperglycemia, hypokalemia, bilirubinemia, elevation of LDH, hypoproteinemia, elevation of creatinine), or urine (albuminuria).

Frequency not known (cannot be estimated from the available data):

  • pneumonia
  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome (blisters and erosion of the skin and mucous membranes)
  • skin redness
  • toxic epidermal necrolysis (severe form of Stevens-Johnson syndrome followed by skin pain and peeling of the upper layer of the skin)
  • acute kidney failure
  • anaphylactic shock
  • serum sickness-like reaction (late allergic skin reaction)
  • decrease in blood cells (agranulocytosis)
  • decrease in carnitine values in the blood
  • cholestasis (the flow of bile from the liver is obstructed)
  • aplastic anemia (decrease in the number of blood cells)
  • liver damage
  • hepatitis.

Reporting of side effects

If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist, even if it is possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report them directly through the Spanish Pharmacovigilance System for Human Use Medicines: https://www.notificaRAM.es. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medication.

5. Storage of SPECTRACEF 400 mg film-coated tablets

Keep this medication out of sight and reach of children.

Store in the original packaging.

Do not store above 30°C.

Do not use SPECTRACEF after the expiration date stated on the packaging. The expiration date is the last day of the month indicated.

Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Place the packaging and any unused medication in the pharmacy's SIGRE collection point. If in doubt, ask your pharmacist how to dispose of the packaging and any unused medication. This will help protect the environment.

6. Contents of the pack and other information

Composition of SPECTRACEF 400 mg film-coated tablets
  • The active substance is cefditoren. Each tablet contains 400 mg of cefditoren (as cefditoren pivoxil).
    • Other components are:

core: sodium caseinate, sodium croscarmellose, mannitol E421, sodium tripolyphosphate, and magnesium stearate.

coating: opadry Y-1-7000 (hypromellose, titanium dioxide E171, macrogol 400) and carnauba wax.

printing ink Opacode S-1-20986 blue: shellac, brilliant blue lacquer, titanium dioxide E171, propylene glycol, and concentrated ammonia solution.

Appearance of the product and contents of the pack

SPECTRACEF 400 mg is presented in the form of film-coated tablets. Each pack contains 10 tablets. Other presentations:

SPECTRACEF 200 mg film-coated tablets: pack with 16 or 20 tablets.

Marketing authorization holder and manufacturer:

Meiji Pharma Spain, S.A.

Avda. de Madrid, 94.

28802 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid (Spain)

Date of the last revision of this leaflet:November 2020.

Detailed and updated information on this medication is available on the website of the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) http://www.aemps.gob.es

Online doctors for SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS

Discuss questions about SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS, including use, safety considerations and prescription review, subject to medical assessment and local regulations.

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Tarek Agami

General medicine 11 years exp.

Dr. Tarek Agami is a general practitioner registered in both Portugal and Israel, with broad experience in family and preventive medicine. He offers online consultations for adults and children, providing personalised support for primary care needs, chronic disease management, and everyday health concerns.

Dr. Agami received clinical training and worked in leading medical institutions in Israel (Kaplan Medical Center, Barzilai Medical Center, Wolfson Medical Center) and Portugal (European Healthcare City, Viscura Internacional, Hospital Dr. José Maria Grande, Hospital Vila Franca de Xira). His approach combines international medical standards with individualised attention to each patient.

Main areas of consultation:

  • Diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic conditions (high blood pressure, diabetes, respiratory infections, cardiovascular symptoms)
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  • Medical support during travel or after relocation
  • Treatment adjustments and lifestyle recommendations based on your personal history
Dr. Agami provides medical support for patients using GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic or Mounjaro) as part of a weight loss strategy. He offers individualised treatment planning, regular follow-up, dose adjustment, and advice on combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes. Consultations follow the medical standards accepted in Portugal and Israel.

Dr. Agami is committed to evidence-based, patient-centred care, ensuring that each person receives trusted medical support tailored to their health goals.

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Nuno Tavares Lopes

Family medicine 18 years exp.

Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes is a licensed physician in Portugal with 17 years of experience in emergency medicine, family and general practice, and public health. He is the Director of Medical and Public Health Services at an international healthcare network and serves as an external consultant for the WHO and ECDC.

  • Emergency care: infections, fever, chest/abdominal pain, minor injuries, paediatric emergencies
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  • IMT medical certificates for driving licence exchange
Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes provides medical support for patients using GLP-1 medications (Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) as part of a weight loss strategy. He offers individualised treatment planning, regular follow-up, dose adjustment, and advice on combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes. Consultations follow the medical standards accepted in Europe.

Dr. Lopes also provides interpretation of medical tests, follow-up care for complex patients, and multilingual support. Whether for urgent concerns or long-term care, he helps patients act with clarity and confidence.

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Anastasiia Shalko

Family medicine 13 years exp.

Dr. Anastasiia Shalko is a general practitioner with a background in both paediatrics and general medicine. She graduated from Bogomolets National Medical University in Kyiv and completed her paediatric internship at the P.L. Shupyk National Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education. After working as a paediatrician in Kyiv, she relocated to Spain, where she has been practising general medicine since 2015, providing care for both adults and children.

Her work focuses on urgent, short-term medical concerns – situations where patients need quick guidance, symptom assessment and clear next steps. She helps people understand whether their symptoms require in-person evaluation, home management or a change in treatment. Common reasons for booking an online consultation include:

  • acute respiratory symptoms (cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever)
  • viral illnesses such as colds and seasonal infections
  • gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, gastroenteritis)
  • sudden changes in how a child or adult feels
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  • renewal of prescriptions when clinically appropriate
Dr. Shalko works specifically with urgent and short-term problems, providing practical recommendations and helping patients determine the safest next step. She explains symptoms clearly, guides patients through decision-making and offers straightforward medical advice for everyday acute issues.

She does not provide long-term management of chronic conditions, ongoing follow-up or comprehensive care plans for complex long-term illnesses. Her consultations are designed for acute symptoms, sudden concerns and situations where timely medical input is important.

With clinical experience in both paediatrics and general medicine, Dr. Shalko confidently supports adults and children. Her communication style is clear, simple and reassuring, helping patients feel informed and supported throughout the consultation.

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Tomasz Grzelewski

Dermatology 21 years exp.

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is an MD, PhD specialist in allergy, paediatrics, general practice and sports medicine, with a clinical focus on dermatology, endocrinology, allergology and sports-related health. He has more than 20 years of clinical experience and completed his medical training at the Medical University of Łódź, where he defended his PhD thesis with distinction. His doctoral research was recognised by the Polish Society of Allergology for its innovative contribution to the field. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of allergic and paediatric conditions, including modern allergen desensitisation techniques.

For five years, Dr Grzelewski served as the Head of two paediatric departments in Poland, managing complex clinical cases and leading multidisciplinary teams. He also worked in medical centres in the United Kingdom, gaining experience across both primary care and specialist environments. With over a decade of telemedicine experience, he has provided online consultations across Europe and is valued for his clear, structured and evidence-based medical guidance.

Dr Grzelewski is actively involved in clinical programmes focused on modern anti-allergic therapies. As a Principal Investigator, he leads research projects on sublingual and oral allergen desensitisation, supporting evidence-based progress in allergy treatment for both children and adults.

In addition to his background in allergology and paediatrics, he completed dermatology studies through the Cambridge Education Group (Royal College of Physicians of Ireland) and a Clinical Endocrinology course at Harvard Medical School. This advanced training enhances his ability to manage skin manifestations of allergies, atopic conditions, urticaria, endocrine-related symptoms and complex immunological reactions.

Patients commonly seek his care for:

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  • general family medicine concerns
Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is known for his clear communication style, structured medical approach and ability to explain treatment options in a concise and accessible way. His multidisciplinary background across allergy, paediatrics, dermatology and endocrinology allows him to provide safe, up-to-date and comprehensive care for patients of all ages.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a prescription required for SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS?
SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS requires a prescription in Spain. You can check with a doctor online whether this medicine may be appropriate for your situation.
What is the active substance in SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS?
The active ingredient in SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS is cefditoren. This information helps identify medicines with the same composition but different brand names.
How much does SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS cost in pharmacies?
The average pharmacy price for SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS is around 40.01 EUR. Prices may vary depending on the manufacturer and dosage form.
Who manufactures SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS?
SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS is manufactured by Meiji Pharma Spain S.A.. Pharmacy brands and packaging may differ depending on the distributor.
Which doctors can assess the use of SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS online?
Doctors such as Family doctors, Psychiatrists, Dermatologists, Cardiologists, Endocrinologists, Gastroenterologists, Pulmonologists, Nephrologists, Rheumatologists, Hematologists, Infectious disease physicians, Allergists, Geriatricians, Paediatricians, Oncologists may assess whether SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS is appropriate, depending on your situation and local regulations. You can book an online consultation to discuss your symptoms and possible next steps.
What are the alternatives to SPECTRACEF 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS?
Other medicines with the same active substance (cefditoren) include MEIACT 200 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS, MEIACT 400 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS, SPECTRACEF 200 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS. These may have different brand names or formulations but contain the same therapeutic ingredient. Always consult a doctor before switching or starting a new medicine.
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