What is cefuroxime and what is it used for?
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Cefuroxime is an antibiotic for use in adults and children.
It works by killing the bacteria that cause inflammation.
It belongs to a group of medicines called cephalosporins.
Cefuroxime is used to treat infections of the throat, sinuses, middle ear, lungs or chest, urinary tract, skin and soft tissues.
Cefuroxime may also be used to treat Lyme disease (an infection spread by parasites called ticks).
Your doctor may test the type of bacteria causing your infection and monitor whether the bacteria are sensitive to cefuroxime during treatment.
What you need to know before you take cefuroxime:
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Do not use cefuroxime if:
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You are allergic to cefuroxime or any of the other ingredients of cefuroxime.
You are allergic to any other cephalosporin antibiotic
You have had a severe allergic reaction to any penicillin in the past.
Warnings and precautions:
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The tablets should not be crushed
Cefuroxime can affect the results of a test for blood sugar levels, or a blood test called a Coombs test.
Tell your doctor if you have a history of colitis, kidney failure, or seizure disorders
Other medicines and cefuroxime:
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Cefuroxime may interact with:
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antacids
probenecid
Oral anticoagulants
Contraceptive pills
How to take cefuroxime:
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Take cefuroxime after food. This will help make the treatment more effective.
Swallow cefuroxime tablets whole with some water.
Do not chew, crush or split the tablets - this may make the treatment less effective.
Recommended dose:
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grown ups:
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The recommended dose of cefuroxime is 250 mg to 500 mg twice daily, depending on the severity and type of infection.
children:
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The recommended dose of cefuroxime is 10 mg/kg (maximum 125 mg) to 15 mg/kg (maximum 250 mg) twice daily depending on the severity and type of infection.
Cefuroxime is not recommended for use in children under 3 months of age, as safety and efficacy are not known in this age group.
Depending on the disease or how you or your child responds to treatment, the initial dose may be changed or more than one course of treatment may be needed.
Patients with kidney problems
If you have a kidney problem, your doctor may change your dose.
Possible side effects:
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Stop using the product and seek immediate medical attention if you develop hives, rash, chest tightness, wheezing, and hypotension.
How to store cefuroxime:
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Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.
Store in the original package at 30°C or below.
Do not use cefuroxime if the tablets are torn or if there are other visible signs of damage.
