Cefuroxime is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic with broad-spectrum bactericidal activity. It is more resistant to beta-lactamases than first-generation cephalosporins and is effective against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In India, it is widely used for respiratory, urinary, skin, and soft tissue infections, and as surgical prophylaxis.
Adult: Most infections: 250mg to 500mg orally twice daily. For more severe infections, lower respiratory tract infections, or Lyme disease: 500mg twice daily. Duration: Typically 5-10 days, depending on infection.
Note: Swallow tablet whole with a glass of water. Take with food to enhance absorption. Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve. Space doses evenly (e.g., every 12 hours).
Cefuroxime is a bactericidal antibiotic that 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 subsequent osmotic lysis of the bacterium.
Pregnancy: Category B. Animal studies have not shown teratogenic risk, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women are lacking. Should be used only if clearly needed, typically after first trimester. Considered relatively safe for use in pregnancy when indicated.
Driving: Generally no effect. However, patients who experience dizziness or other CNS effects should avoid driving or operating machinery.
| Probenecid | Inhibits renal tubular secretion of cefuroxime, increasing and prolonging its blood levels. | Moderate |
| Oral Anticoagulants (Warfarin, Acenocoumarol) | Cefuroxime may potentiate anticoagulant effect, increasing risk of bleeding. Monitor INR closely. | Major |
| Aminoglycosides (e.g., Gentamicin) | Increased potential for nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function. | Moderate |
| Loop Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide) | Potential for increased nephrotoxicity. | Moderate |
| Oral Typhoid Vaccine | Antibiotics may render the live bacterial vaccine ineffective. Avoid concurrent use. | Moderate |
| Alcohol (disulfiram-like reaction is rare with cephalosporins) | Theoretical risk, though more common with certain cephalosporins (cefamandole, cefoperazone). Generally not a concern with cefuroxime, but caution advised. | Low |