Cefuroxime Axetil: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo
Cefuroxime Axetil
Rx Only
Generic NameCefuroxime Axetil
Therapeutic ClassSecond-Generation Cephalosporin Antibiotic
Common Dose250–500 mg every 12 h
Max / 24h1000 mg
PregnancyCategory B
Indications ▼
Upper and lower respiratory tract infections (sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia)
Urinary tract infections (cystitis, pyelonephritis)
Skin and soft tissue infections
Otitis media (middle ear infection)
Lyme disease (early stage)
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, resulting in bacterial lysis and death.
Pharmacokinetics: Oral bioavailability ~37% (increased with food); peak plasma 2–3 hr; widely distributed; partially metabolized in liver; excreted mainly in urine; half-life ~1–2 hr.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Category | Recommended Dose | Max / 24h |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 250–500 mg orally every 12 h | 1000 mg |
| Elderly | Same as adults; adjust for renal impairment | 1000 mg |
| Children (≥3 months) | 30 mg/kg/day orally in 2 divided doses | 1000 mg |
Side Effects ▼
Common: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort
Occasional: Rash, urticaria, headache
Rare: Severe hypersensitivity reactions, liver enzyme elevation, Clostridium difficile colitis
Contraindications ▼
Hypersensitivity to cefuroxime, cephalosporins, or penicillin
History of severe allergic reactions to beta-lactams
Drug Interaction ▼
Antacids containing Al/Mg: reduce absorption
Probenecid: increases plasma concentration of cefuroxime
Live bacterial vaccines: efficacy may be reduced
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Generally considered safe (Category B)
Excreted in breast milk in small amounts; monitor infant for diarrhea or rash
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Effectiveness: Broad-spectrum activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and E. coli.
Clinical Outcomes: Rapid symptom relief in respiratory and urinary infections; reduces duration and severity of illness.
Pharmacokinetic Advantage: Oral absorption enhanced with food; allows twice-daily dosing for better compliance.
Safety Profile: Generally well-tolerated; gastrointestinal upset is most common adverse effect.
Current Research: Studies on resistance trends, optimal pediatric dosing, and combination therapy in severe infections.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Take at the same time daily; can be taken with or without water, preferably after meals.
Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve.
Maintain hydration to prevent kidney complications.
Avoid concurrent antacids or inform doctor if taking any.
Report allergic reactions, severe diarrhea, or unusual symptoms immediately.
Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if advised by physician.
Storage & Handling ▼
Store at 20–25°C; protect from moisture & light
Keep out of reach of children
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Cefotil®
Cefurox
Cefuzole
Zinnat
Cefurox
Medical Disclaimer: This clinical summary is for informational purposes only. Always follow guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for dosage, interactions, and use.
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