Home Drug Guide Cefuroxime Sodium

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Cefuroxime Sodium

Brand Names Zinacef, Kefurox, Cefuroxime And Dextrose In Duplex Container

Classification

Therapeutic: Antibiotic, Second-generation cephalosporin

Pharmacological: Beta-lactam antibiotic

FDA Approved Indications

Bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, bone and joint infections, and meningitis

Mechanism of Action

Cefuroxime inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell lysis and death in susceptible bacteria.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Typically 750 mg to 1.5 g every 8-12 hours IV or IM, dosage adjusted based on severity and site of infection.

Pediatric: Typically 50-100 mg/kg/day divided into 2 doses, IV or IM.

Geriatric: Dose adjustments may be necessary based on renal function.

Renal Impairment: Reduce dosage in renal impairment; specific adjustments depend on creatinine clearance.

Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustment necessary.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Not absorbed orally; administered IV or IM.

Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues and fluids.

Metabolism: Minimal metabolism; mostly excreted unchanged.

Excretion: Primarily excreted via the kidneys.

Half Life: Approximately 1-1.5 hours.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to cefuroxime or other cephalosporins.
History of severe allergic reactions to penicillins.

Precautions

Use with caution in patients with renal impairment.
Monitor for signs of allergic reactions.
Use in pregnant or breastfeeding women only if benefits outweigh risks.

Adverse Reactions - Common

Diarrhea (Common)
Nausea and vomiting (Common)
Rash or skin reactions (Less common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Anaphylaxis (Rare)
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Probenecid (may decrease renal clearance of cefuroxime)
Antacids (may impair absorption if oral formulation)

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor for allergic reactions, renal function, and signs of superinfection.

Diagnoses:

Risk for allergic reaction
Risk for superinfection
Impaired renal function

Implementation: Administer IV or IM as prescribed; monitor renal function and allergic response.

Evaluation: Assess infection resolution and adverse reactions.

Patient/Family Teaching

Inform about possible allergic reactions and to report rash, difficulty breathing.
Complete full course of therapy.
Report any signs of superinfection or severe diarrhea.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings: N/A

Genetic Factors: None specified.

Lab Test Interference: Can cause false-positive Coombs test.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Severe diarrhea, seizures in rare cases.

Treatment: Supportive care, Maintain hydration, Dialysis in severe cases.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light.

Stability: Stable for specified period as per manufacturer guidelines.