Cefuroxime
What It Is Used For
Cefuroxime is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It treats chest, throat, sinus, ear, skin and urinary tract infections, and early Lyme disease. It does not work for colds or flu.
How to Take It
Tablets (cefuroxime axetil): adults usually 250 mg to 500 mg twice a day after food, for the days on your prescription. Children: dose by weight as suspension. The injection is given in hospital. Finish the full course even if you feel better. Only take antibiotics prescribed for you; misuse makes bacteria resistant.
Who Should Not Take It
Do not take it if you are allergic to Cefuroxime or other cephalosporins, or if you have had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin.
Side Effects
Common: diarrhoea, stomach pain, nausea and headache. Get urgent help for swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or a blistering rash. Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, even weeks later, needs a doctor.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, as a lower dose may be needed, or have had bowel inflammation (colitis).
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Use only if a doctor prescribes it; it is generally considered suitable when needed.
Interactions
It can increase the effect of warfarin. Tell your doctor about all your medicines.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, out of the reach of children. Once mixed, keep suspensions as the label says and throw away what is left after the course.
Checked by the Oshud Alo pharmacy team. For information only; follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Cefuroxime