Cefuroxime Sodium: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo
Cefuroxime Sodium
Rx Only
Generic NameCefuroxime Sodium
Therapeutic ClassSecond-Generation Cephalosporin Antibiotic
Common Dose750–1500 mg every 8–12 h
Max / 24h6 g
PregnancyCategory B
Indications ▼
Severe respiratory tract infections (pneumonia, bronchitis)
Urinary tract infections (including pyelonephritis)
Skin and soft tissue infections
Septicemia
Bone and joint infections (osteomyelitis, septic arthritis)
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell lysis and death.
Pharmacokinetics: Rapidly distributed after IV/IM administration; not significantly metabolized; excreted mainly via urine; half-life ~1–2 hr; dose adjustment required in renal impairment.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Category | Recommended Dose | Max / 24h |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 750 mg–1.5 g IV/IM every 8–12 h | 6 g |
| Elderly | Same as adults; adjust for renal impairment | 6 g |
| Children (≥3 months) | 50–100 mg/kg/day IV/IM in 2–3 divided doses | 6 g |
Note: Reconstitute injection with sterile water or appropriate diluent as directed; administer slowly IV or by deep IM injection.
Side Effects ▼
Common: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, rash
Occasional: Headache, dizziness, mild hypersensitivity
Rare: Severe allergic reactions, thrombocytopenia, liver enzyme elevation, Clostridium difficile infection
Contraindications ▼
Hypersensitivity to cefuroxime, cephalosporins, or penicillin
History of severe allergic reactions to beta-lactams
Drug Interaction ▼
Probenecid: increases cefuroxime plasma levels
Live bacterial vaccines: efficacy may be reduced
Concurrent nephrotoxic drugs: monitor renal function
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 coverage against gram-positive and gram-negative pathogens; effective in severe systemic infections.
Clinical Outcomes: Rapid resolution of infection signs and symptoms, reduces hospitalization duration in systemic infections.
Pharmacokinetic Advantage: Allows multiple daily dosing; IV/IM route suitable for severe infections or patients unable to take oral therapy.
Safety Profile: Generally well-tolerated; hypersensitivity reactions are rare but must be monitored.
Current Research: Resistance monitoring, combination therapy in sepsis, and pediatric dosing optimization studies.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Administer IV slowly or deep IM as prescribed; follow reconstitution instructions carefully.
Complete the full course even if symptoms improve.
Report any allergic reactions, severe diarrhea, or unusual symptoms.
Maintain hydration during therapy.
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) ▼
Bangladesh (Local Brands):
Global / International Brands:
Cefotil®
Cefuroxime
Zinacef
Cefuroxime
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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