Cefuroxime Axetil

Cefuroxime Axetil or Ceftin, bacteria-fighting drug in a group known as cephalosporin antibiotics, used to treat mild or moderate infections of the ears, throat, chest, urinary tract, and skin. It is also used to treat gonorrhea. Cefuroxime axetil works by interfering with the invading bacteria’s ability to multiply in the body.

Available by prescription only, this drug is taken orally in tablet form, and a liquid form is administered intravenously. Depending on the severity of infection, the adult dosage may range from 125 to 500 mg taken twice a day. A single dose of 1 g is used to treat gonorrhea. Children under the age of 12 may take this drug safely, usually in two daily doses of 125 or 250 mg per dose.

Cefuroxime axetil works fastest when taken on an empty stomach, but it may be taken with food if it causes stomach upset. For children the tablets may be crushed and mixed with food. The drug is effective within three to five days, but to prevent a recurrence of infection, the entire course of medication should be taken. However, prolonged use is not recommended as it may lead to a secondary infection.

Patients with diabetes should be aware that cefuroxime axetil may affect the accuracy of urine glucose monitoring tests. Patients with colitis (inflamed colon) or other gastrointestinal problems should use this drug with caution. Its safety for use during pregnancy has not been determined, and it does appear in breast milk.

Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, colitis, or skin problems such as redness, itching, or rash. Other side effects sometimes observed are dizziness, headache, seizures, vaginitis, or yeast infection. A severe allergic reaction to cefuroxime axetil may occur in patients who are sensitive to both cephalosporin antibiotics and penicillin. This drug may interact adversely with the drug probenecid and with diarrhea medications, prolonging the diarrhea or making it more severe.