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Cefuroxime Axetil: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Cefuroxime Axetil is a second-generation oral cephalosporin antibiotic prodrug used to treat a variety of bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms.

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About Cefuroxime Axetil

Indications of Cefuroxime Axetil

Cefuroxime Axetil is a second-generation oral cephalosporin antibiotic prodrug used to treat a variety of bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms.

Established / FDA-approved indications

  • Pharyngitis and tonsillitis
  • Acute bacterial otitis media
  • Acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis
  • Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
  • Uncomplicated skin and skin-structure infections
  • Uncomplicated urinary tract infections
  • Uncomplicated gonorrhea (cervical/urethral)
  • Early Lyme disease

Guideline-supported / commonly used indications

  • Community-acquired pneumonia, typically as part of a broader treatment protocol
  • Bone and joint infections, as oral step-down therapy after initial parenteral treatment

Cefuroxime Axetil should be used only for infections proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria, based on culture and susceptibility data or local epidemiology, to reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria.

Dosage & Administration of Cefuroxime Axetil

The dose and duration of Cefuroxime Axetil depend on the type and severity of infection. Cefuroxime Axetil tablets and oral suspension are not bioequivalent on a mg-to-mg basis and are not interchangeable.

IndicationAdult DosePediatric DoseDuration
Pharyngitis/tonsillitis250 mg twice daily20 mg/kg/day in divided doses (max 500 mg/day)10 days
Acute otitis mediaNot a typical adult indication30 mg/kg/day in divided doses (max 1000 mg/day)10 days
Sinusitis250 mg twice daily250 mg twice daily (age ≥13 years)10 days
Acute bronchitis exacerbation250-500 mg twice dailySame as adult (age ≥13 years)10 days
Skin/skin-structure infection250-500 mg twice dailySame as adult (age ≥13 years)10 days
Uncomplicated urinary tract infection250 mg twice dailySame as adult (age ≥13 years)7-10 days
Uncomplicated gonorrhea1000 mg single doseSame as adult (age ≥13 years)Single dose
Early Lyme disease500 mg twice dailySame as adult (age ≥13 years)20 days

Cefuroxime Axetil tablets may be taken with or without food, although taking Cefuroxime Axetil with food improves absorption and is generally recommended, especially for higher doses. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed because of the bitter taste of the active drug; patients who cannot swallow tablets should use the oral suspension formulation instead.

Antibiotic stewardship: Take Cefuroxime Axetil exactly as prescribed by your physician; do not stop, extend, skip doses, or share this medicine with others without medical advice.

Dose adjustment is required in patients with significant renal impairment (creatinine clearance below 30 mL/min); see Use in Special Populations.

Side Effects of Cefuroxime Axetil

Cefuroxime Axetil is generally well tolerated. Reported adverse effects include:

Common

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Headache
  • Vaginal itching or vaginitis (in females)

Less common

  • Skin rash or urticaria
  • Transient elevation of liver enzymes
  • Eosinophilia

Rare but serious

  • Severe hypersensitivity/anaphylaxis
  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis
  • Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea/colitis (see Precautions and Warnings)
  • Seizures (typically with very high doses or in renal impairment)

Patients should seek prompt medical attention for any severe rash, difficulty breathing, swelling, or persistent diarrhea while taking Cefuroxime Axetil.

Contraindications of Cefuroxime Axetil

Cefuroxime Axetil is contraindicated in:

  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to Cefuroxime Axetil, cefuroxime, or any other cephalosporin antibiotic.
  • Patients with a history of severe (e.g., anaphylactic) hypersensitivity reaction to penicillins or other beta-lactam antibiotics, due to the possibility of cross-reactivity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cefuroxime Axetil

What is Cefuroxime Axetil used for?

Cefuroxime Axetil is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as throat infections, ear infections, sinusitis, bronchitis, skin infections, urinary tract infections, uncomplicated gonorrhea, and early Lyme disease caused by bacteria susceptible to it.

How should I take Cefuroxime Axetil?

Take Cefuroxime Axetil exactly as prescribed by your physician, usually twice daily. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew it. Taking Cefuroxime Axetil with food can improve absorption. Complete the full course even if you feel better, and do not stop, extend, skip doses, or share this medicine with others without medical advice.

Can I take Cefuroxime Axetil if I am allergic to penicillin?

Cefuroxime Axetil should be avoided if you have had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics, because of the risk of cross-reactivity. Tell your doctor about any drug allergies before starting Cefuroxime Axetil.

Is Cefuroxime Axetil safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Cefuroxime Axetil should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and the potential benefit justifies the potential risk, and with caution during breastfeeding, as it passes into breast milk in small amounts. Always consult a physician before using Cefuroxime Axetil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What are the common side effects of Cefuroxime Axetil?

Common side effects of Cefuroxime Axetil include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, headache, and vaginal itching. Seek medical attention immediately for signs of a severe allergic reaction, severe or persistent diarrhea, or unusual rash while taking Cefuroxime Axetil.

What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much Cefuroxime Axetil?

If you miss a dose of Cefuroxime Axetil, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose; do not double the dose. If you suspect an overdose of Cefuroxime Axetil, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center right away.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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