Cefuroxime is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic with broad-spectrum bactericidal activity. It is more resistant to beta-lactamases than first-generation cephalosporins and exhibits good activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms, including Haemophilus influenzae and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is widely used in the Indian healthcare setting for respiratory, skin, soft tissue, and urinary tract infections.
Adult: Most infections: 250 mg orally twice daily. For more severe infections, lower respiratory tract infections, or skin/soft tissue infections: 500 mg twice daily. Uncomplicated Gonorrhea: Single 1 g dose. Lyme Disease: 500 mg twice daily for 20 days.
Note: Take with food to enhance absorption and minimize gastrointestinal upset. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, break, or chew. Maintain adequate hydration. Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve.
Cefuroxime is a bactericidal beta-lactam antibiotic. It inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall. This binding inhibits the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis, leading to the formation of a defective cell wall and eventual osmotic lysis of the bacterium.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy Category B (US FDA). Animal studies have shown no risk, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women are lacking. Use only if clearly needed. Crosses the placenta. Generally considered safe when indicated.
Driving: May cause dizziness. Patients should be cautioned about operating machinery or driving until they know how the medication affects them.
| Probenecid | Inhibits renal tubular secretion of cefuroxime, increasing and prolonging its serum levels. | Moderate |
| Oral Anticoagulants (Warfarin) | Cefuroxime may potentiate anticoagulant effect by reducing vitamin K-producing gut flora and possibly affecting platelet function. Monitor INR closely. | Moderate to High |
| Aminoglycosides (e.g., Gentamicin) | Potential additive nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function. | Moderate |
| Loop Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide) | May increase the risk of nephrotoxicity. | Moderate |
| Oral Typhoid Vaccine | Antibiotics may render the live bacterial vaccine ineffective. Avoid concurrent use. | Moderate |
| Antacids / H2 Blockers / PPIs | May reduce gastric acidity and potentially decrease the absorption/bioavailability of cefuroxime axetil. Separate administration by 2 hours. | Mild |