Cefuroxime Axetil

Generic Name: cefuroxime axetil

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Cefuroxime Axetil

Cefuroxime axetil is a semisynthetic cephalosporin antibacterial drug for oral administration. Indicated for treatment of infections including pharyngitis/tonsillitis, acute bacterial otitis media, sinusitis, bronchitis, skin infections, urinary tract infections, gonorrhea, and early Lyme disease.

Overview

Cefuroxime axetil is a semisynthetic cephalosporin antibacterial drug for oral administration. Indicated for treatment of infections including pharyngitis/tonsillitis, acute bacterial otitis media, sinusitis, bronchitis, skin infections, urinary tract infections, gonorrhea, and early Lyme disease.

Uses

Treatment of pharyngitis/tonsillitis, acute bacterial otitis media, acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis, acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, uncomplicated skin and skin-structure infections, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, uncomplicated gonorrhea, and early Lyme disease.

Dosage

Adults: 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 7-20 days depending on infection type; single 1,000 mg dose for gonorrhea. Pediatric patients under 13 years: 250 mg every 12 hours for 10 days. Dosage adjustment required for creatinine clearance under 30 mL/min.

Side Effects

Most common (3% or more): diarrhea (4%), nausea/vomiting (3%), Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction (5.6% in Lyme disease), vaginitis. Post-marketing: anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, pseudomembranous colitis.

Interactions

Drugs reducing gastric acidity may lower bioavailability. Probenecid increases serum cefuroxime concentrations; coadministration not recommended. May cause false-positive glucose in urine with copper reduction tests.

Warnings

Serious hypersensitivity and anaphylactic reactions possible; discontinue if reaction occurs. Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea reported. Consider superinfections. False-positive urine glucose with copper reduction tests. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to cefuroxime axetil or other beta-lactam antibacterial drugs.

Pregnancy

Available data over several decades with cephalosporin use, including cefuroxime axetil, in pregnant women have not established drug-associated risks of major birth defects or miscarriage.

Storage

Store at 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). Excursions permitted to 15 to 30 degrees C. Replace cap securely after each opening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cefuroxime Axetil used for?

Treatment of pharyngitis/tonsillitis, acute bacterial otitis media, acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis, acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, uncomplicated skin and skin-structure infections, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, uncomplicated gonorrhea, and early Lyme disease.

What are the side effects of Cefuroxime Axetil?

Most common (3% or more): diarrhea (4%), nausea/vomiting (3%), Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction (5.6% in Lyme disease), vaginitis. Post-marketing: anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, pseudomembranous colitis.

Can I take Cefuroxime Axetil during pregnancy?

Available data over several decades with cephalosporin use, including cefuroxime axetil, in pregnant women have not established drug-associated risks of major birth defects or miscarriage.

What are the important warnings for Cefuroxime Axetil?

Serious hypersensitivity and anaphylactic reactions possible; discontinue if reaction occurs. Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea reported. Consider superinfections. False-positive urine glucose with copper reduction tests. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to cefuroxime axetil or other beta-lactam antibacterial drugs.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.