Home Drug Guide Cefuroxime Axetil

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Cefuroxime Axetil

Brand Names Ceftin

Classification

Therapeutic: Antibiotic, Cephalosporin

Pharmacological: Beta-lactam Antibiotic

FDA Approved Indications

Bacterial infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, urinary tract infections, gonorrhea, skin infections, and otitis media

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell lysis and death.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: 250-500 mg twice daily or 750 mg to 1.5 g once daily, depending on infection

Pediatric: 20-30 mg/kg/day divided into doses, usually twice daily

Geriatric: Dose adjustments based on renal function; caution due to potential renal impairment

Renal Impairment: Adjust dose based on creatinine clearance, typically reduced frequency or dose

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; no specific dose adjustment required

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed from gastrointestinal tract

Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues and fluids

Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism; hydrolyzed to active metabolites

Excretion: Renal excretion of the unchanged drug and metabolites

Half Life: 1-1.2 hours

Contraindications

Known allergy to cefuroxime or other cephalosporins

Precautions

History of gastrointestinal disease, especially colitis; renal impairment; monitor for allergic reactions

Adverse Reactions - Common

Diarrhea (Common)
Nausea (Common)
Rash (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis (Rare)
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Probenecid may increase cefuroxime levels; warfarin may increase bleed risk

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor for allergic reactions; renal function; signs of superinfection

Diagnoses:

Risk for allergic reaction
Risk for infection
Impaired renal function

Implementation: Administer with food to improve absorption; monitor renal function during therapy

Evaluation: Assess resolution of infection symptoms; monitor for adverse reactions

Patient/Family Teaching

Complete the full course of therapy.
Report signs of allergic reaction immediately.
Take with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

Hypersensitivity reactions in patients allergic to penicillins or other beta-lactams

Genetic Factors: None specified

Lab Test Interference: May cause false-positive Coombs test

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal upset

Treatment: Supportive care; hemodialysis may be considered in severe cases

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, 20-25°C (68-77°F)

Stability: Stable for the duration of the expiration date when stored properly