Cefuroxime

Cefuroxime — Uses and Benefits

Cefuroxime is used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria in various parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis, sinusitis, and tonsillitis
• Ear infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Gonorrhoea (a sexually transmitted infection)
• Prevention of infection during certain surgeries, as decided by your doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Cefuroxime belongs to a class of antibiotics called cephalosporins
• It works by stopping bacteria from building their protective outer wall
• This weakens the bacteria and eventually kills them
• It is effective only against bacteria, not viruses

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not work on viral infections like common cold, flu, or most sore throats
• It should not be used to treat infections known to be resistant to cephalosporins
• It is not a painkiller or fever medicine on its own
• It should not be self-prescribed without a doctor's advice

How to Use Cefuroxime

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Tablets are usually taken with food to help absorption and reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says it is fine to do so
• Complete the full course even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to stop
• Do not increase or decrease the dose on your own

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light, and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• If a liquid suspension has been prepared, check the label for how long it can be stored, usually needing refrigeration and use within a limited number of days

Cefuroxime — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Stomach upset
• Headache

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Skin rash or itching
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Vaginal itching or discharge (due to yeast overgrowth)

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe or bloody diarrhea, which may indicate a serious gut infection
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Cefuroxime — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be taken only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to cefuroxime or other cephalosporin antibiotics
• Have had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin-type antibiotics in the past

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease
• Have a history of stomach or bowel problems, especially colitis
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have any known drug allergies

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Probenecid, which can increase cefuroxime levels in the body
• Oral contraceptive pills, as effectiveness may be reduced
• Blood-thinning medicines like warfarin
• Other antibiotics being taken at the same time
• Antacids or acid-reducing medicines, which may lower absorption of some formulations

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

No, complete the full course as prescribed, otherwise the infection may come back or become resistant to treatment.

Can I take this with food?

Yes, taking it with food is usually recommended to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.

Is it safe during pregnancy?

• It should only be used during pregnancy if your doctor feels it is necessary, so always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.