Indications

This medication is for treating infections caused by susceptible bacteria. These include:

• Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis (Strep throat) caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.
• Acute Bacterial Otitis Media (ear infections) caused by several types of bacteria, including those that produce beta-lactamase.
• Acute Bacterial Sinusitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae.
• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
• Skin and Skin-Structure Infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.
• Urinary Tract Infections caused by E.coli or Klebsiella pneumoniae.
• Bone and Joint Infections.
• Gonorrhea and Early Lyme Disease.

Pharmacology

Cefuroxime is a well-known and effective antibiotic. It has broad-spectrum activity against a wide range of common bacteria, including those that produce beta-lactamase, which makes many other antibiotics ineffective. It is stable against bacterial beta-lactamase, which is why it works against many ampicillin- and amoxycillin-resistant strains.

Dosage

Dosage varies depending on the patient's age, the type of infection, and the form of the medication (tablet, suspension, or injection).

Oral (Tablet or Suspension)

• Adults (13 years and older): Doses range from 250 mg to 500 mg, typically taken twice daily for 5 to 20 days, depending on the infection. Uncomplicated gonorrhea is a single 1000 mg dose.
• Children (3 months to 12 years): Doses are calculated by weight, typically 20-30 mg/kg/day, taken in two divided doses for 5 to 10 days.

Parenteral (Injection)

• Adults: The usual dose is 750 mg three times daily via IM or IV injection. For severe infections, the dose can be increased to 1.5 g three times daily.
• Children (above 3 months): 30-100 mg/kg/day, divided into 3 or 4 doses.
• Neonates: 30-100 mg/kg/day, divided into 2 or 3 doses.
• Specific uses like surgical prophylaxis, pneumonia, meningitis, and gonorrhea have their own specific dosing regimens.

Administration

It's recommended to use a freshly prepared solution. However, it will remain potent for up to 24 hours at room temperature or 48 hours when refrigerated.

Interaction

No significant drug interactions have been reported.

Contraindications

This medication is contraindicated for patients with a known allergy to cephalosporin antibiotics.

Side Effects

Side effects are infrequent, mild, and temporary. They may include rashes and stomach upset. Prolonged use, like with other antibiotics, may lead to an overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, such as Candida.

Pregnancy & Lactation

This drug is classified as pregnancy category B. While there are no adequate studies in pregnant women, it should only be used if clearly necessary. It has been shown to be present in human milk, so caution should be used when a nursing woman takes this medication.

Precautions & Warnings

Use caution when giving this medicine to patients who are also taking potent diuretics or who have a history of colitis. Although cross-reactions have been reported, cephalosporin antibiotics can generally be safely given to patients with a penicillin allergy.

Therapeutic Class

This is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic.

Reconstitution

For injections, follow these reconstitution instructions:

• 750 mg intramuscular injection: Add 3 ml of water for injection and shake gently.
• 750 mg intravenous injection: Add 8 ml of water for injection and shake gently. Inject slowly into a vein over 3 to 5 minutes.
• 1.5 g intravenous injection: Add 16 ml of water for injection and shake gently. Inject slowly into a vein over 3 to 5 minutes.

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.