About cefuroxime axetil
Second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
Used for
- Treats susceptible bacterial infections, including ear, sinus, throat, skin, and urinary infections.
- May treat early Lyme disease in adults and children.
Usual adult dose
Commonly 250–500 mg by mouth every 12 hours, depending on infection; take with food.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 3 months and older, commonly 10–15 mg/kg every 12 hours, depending on infection; maximum 500 mg per dose.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
- Headache
- Vaginal yeast infection
Important warnings
- Not effective against viral infections such as colds or flu.
- Serious allergic reactions can occur, especially with cephalosporin allergy.
- Severe or persistent diarrhea may signal intestinal infection.
- Dose adjustment may be needed with reduced kidney function.
Pregnancy
Generally considered usable when needed; human pregnancy data have not shown a clear increased risk.
Breastfeeding
Usually compatible; small amounts enter milk. Monitor the infant for diarrhea or thrush.
Interactions
- Probenecid can increase cefuroxime levels.
- Medicines that reduce stomach acidity may lower absorption.
- Warfarin may have an increased effect; monitoring may be needed.
- Oral typhoid vaccine may work less well during antibiotic treatment.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.