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Cefuroxime - Uses - Dosages - Side Effects - Precautions

Cefuroxime: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Cefuroxime?

Cefuroxime is a generic antibiotic that treats bacterial infections. Some infections that the drug can help treat are:

  • Bronchitis (a common medical issue that causes inflammation of bronchial tubes).
  • Urinary tract infection (an infection of the bladder, kidneys, or urethra).
  • Lyme disease (a tick-borne disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi).
  • Gonorrhea (a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that may cause infertility).
  • Tonsillitis (infected tonsils can cause the condition).
  • Infections in the middle ear, skin, tonsils, and throat.

What are the uses of Cefuroxime?

The drug belongs to a class of medicines called cephalosporin antibiotics. The antibiotic is taken orally or through an injection. It comes in the form of a tablet and suspension. Different people absorb Cefuroxime in different ways.  

Doctors usually recommend Cefuroxime for 5-10 days, according to the severity of the infection. It helps to treat the following medical conditions.

  • Pneumonia.
  • Meningitis.
  • Sepsis.
  • Lyme disease.
  • Urinary tract infections.
  • Otitis Media.
  • Bronchitis.
  • Gonorrhea.
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What are the side effects of Cefuroxime?

If you are allergic to Cefuroxime, let your doctor know in advance. Patients with gastrointestinal disease, malnourishment, colitis, kidney, or liver disease, must inform the doctor beforehand. The antibiotic is sometimes recommended before surgery to prevent an infection. It is a well-treated drug, and side effects are usually not adverse.

  • Nausea.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Rash.
  • Itching.
  • Hives.
  • Wheezing.
  • Swelling on the face, lips, or eyes.
  • Bloody stools or stomach cramps.

Call a doctor immediately if you have a high fever, chills, severe stomach pain, seizure, kidney problem, or jaundice.

Dosages and Precautions

Adults and children are administered different dosages per the nature of the bacterial infection and severity. 

Take the dosage per the doctor’s advice to prevent any complications. Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush or chew. 

Antibiotics are taken along with the meals unless otherwise prescribed. 

Keep the drug in a tight container and store it at room temperature. Store the medication away from children. 

Call Yashoda Hospitals to receive medical expert advice about the necessary precautions, uses, dosages and side effects of Cefuroxime.

S.no Product Name Dosage Form
1. Ceroxim Ceroxim 500mg Tablet
2. Ceftum Cefuroxime 125mg Tablet
3. Zocef Cefuroxime 125mg Dry Syrup
4. Cefakind Cefuroxime 125mg Dry Syrup
5. Altacef Cefuroxime 125mg Suspension

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Cefuroxime

1. What infections does Cefuroxime treat?

Cefuroxime is available for people of all age groups to treat bacterial infections. The drug treats conditions like strep throat, tonsillitis, Lyme disease, skin infections, sinuses, infections in the ears and throat. The drug does not help to treat viral infections such as the common cold or flu.

2. How long does it take for Cefuroxime to work?

Doctors usually recommend Cefuroxime for 5-10 days to be taken after every 12 hours. It can take up to 48 hours to get relief from the symptoms after starting the medication. The doctor will recommend other supporting drugs (like medicine to reduce stomach acids) along with Cefuroxime.

3. Is Cefuroxime a strong antibiotic?

Cefuroxime is a strong antibiotic to treat bacterial infections. It helps reduce the growth of bacteria and does not work for viral infections. The drug is available as tablets (125, 250, and 500 mg), suspension, and injection. Speak to a physician if the symptoms do not improve in a few days.

4. Is Cefuroxime a penicillin?

Cefuroxime is a class of antibiotics known as cephalosporin. It is chemically like penicillin and is used to treat bacterial infections. If you are allergic to penicillin, let your physician know, as you might be allergic to Cefuroxime as well. The doctor may recommend an antibiotic that is considered safe for penicillin-allergic people.

5. Is Cefuroxime good for sinus infections?

Acute bacterial rhinosinusitis (ABRS) is an acute bacterial infection of the nasal cavity and sinuses. Symptoms usually include face pain, fever, and headache. The antibiotic Cefuroxime treats acute sinus infections. After starting Cefuroxime, it may take two or three weeks to cure the sinus. It is usually the first-line antibiotic to treat a sinus infection.

6. Can Cefuroxime cause a miscarriage?

Cefuroxime will usually not cause a miscarriage. It is a safe drug to consume during pregnancy; however, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking any medication. There is an increased risk of miscarriage in the first twenty weeks, and you should be careful with all medications during this time.

7. Is Cefuroxime safe during pregnancy?

Cefuroxime is usually safe during pregnancy. However, consult a doctor before taking the antibiotic during pregnancy (so the doctor can consider all risk factors and determine if it’s safe for consumption). If you are breastfeeding, let your doctor know as Cefuroxime or other medications can cause adverse effects in infants.

8. What bacteria does Cefuroxime treat?

Cefuroxime is an FDA-approved antibiotic effective against Streptococcus pneumonia, E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Haemophilus influenzae. Doctors recommend a Cefuroxime dose every 12 hours for five to ten days (depending on the severity of the infection, age, and condition of the patient).

9. Is Cefuroxime stronger than amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic. It goes by the brand names - Moxatag and Amoxil. Cefuroxime is different from amoxicillin, but both treat bacterial infections. Both the drugs help to slow the growth of bacteria. Cefuroxime belongs to the Cephalosporin class of antibiotics. Amoxicillin and Cefuroxime may have similar side effects.

10. Can Cefuroxime make you sleepy?

It is unusual for patients taking Cefuroxime to feel sleepy. However, one of the rare side effects may include drowsiness and dizziness. In case the symptoms persist or get worse, speak to your doctor immediately. Some common side effects include nausea, cough, stuffy nose, abdominal pain, itching, or a rash.

Do you have any more questions related to Cefuroxime? Get in touch with one of our specialists at Yashoda Hospitals.

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Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.