DOSE AND DOSAGE:
- The dosage of cefuroxime varies depending on the severity of the infection, the patient’s age, weight, and renal function, as well as the specific formulation (oral or intravenous).
- Oral formulations typically range from 125 mg to 500 mg every 12 hours for mild to moderate infections.
- For more severe infections or those caused by less susceptible organisms, higher doses may be required, up to 1,000 mg every 12 hours.
FREQUENCY:
- The frequency of administration is typically every 12 hours for oral formulations.
ROA (Route of Administration):
- Cefuroxime is available in both oral and intravenous formulations.
- Oral tablets should be taken with food to enhance absorption.
- Intravenous formulations are administered through direct injection or infusion.
MOA (Mechanism of Action):
- Cefuroxime is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell lysis and death of susceptible bacteria.
PK (Pharmacokinetics):
- Cefuroxime is well-absorbed orally and achieves therapeutic concentrations in various body tissues and fluids.
- It has a relatively short half-life, requiring dosing every 12 hours.
- Cefuroxime is primarily eliminated unchanged via the kidneys, so dosage adjustments are necessary in patients with renal impairment.
PD (Pharmacodynamics):
- The bactericidal activity of cefuroxime is concentration-dependent, meaning higher drug concentrations are associated with increased bacterial killing.
- It exhibits time-dependent killing against susceptible bacteria.
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY:
- Cefuroxime exerts its antimicrobial effects by interfering with the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, leading to cell death.
INDICATIONS:
- Cefuroxime is indicated for the treatment of various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, bone infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections.
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
- Cefuroxime is contraindicated in patients with known allergies to cephalosporin antibiotics or any component of the formulation.
- It should be used with caution in patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to penicillins or other beta-lactam antibiotics.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
- Cefuroxime may interact with probenecid, leading to increased levels of cefuroxime in the body.
- Concurrent use of cefuroxime with nephrotoxic drugs may increase the risk of kidney damage.
MONITORING AND LABORATORY TESTS:
- Monitoring of renal function is important during cefuroxime therapy, especially in patients with preexisting kidney disease.
- Periodic monitoring of blood cell counts may be necessary, particularly in patients receiving prolonged treatment.
Why is this medication prescribed? Cefuroxime is prescribed to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, bone infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections.
How should this medicine be used? The medication should be taken exactly as directed by the healthcare provider. It is usually taken orally with food to enhance absorption, or administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient’s age and renal function.
Other uses for this medicine Cefuroxime is sometimes used off-label to treat infections not listed in the official prescribing information, based on the judgment of the healthcare provider.
What special precautions should I follow?
- Inform the healthcare provider about any allergies to cephalosporin antibiotics or penicillins.
- Mention any history of kidney disease or gastrointestinal disease.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
What special dietary instructions should I follow? There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with cefuroxime use. However, taking the medication with food may help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
What should I do if I forget a dose? If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling up on doses is not recommended.
What side effects can this medication cause? Common side effects of cefuroxime include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Other possible side effects include headache, dizziness, skin rash, itching, and allergic reactions. Serious side effects such as severe diarrhea or signs of an allergic reaction should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication? Cefuroxime should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. It should be kept out of reach of children and pets. Unused or expired medication should be disposed of properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
In case of emergency/overdose If an overdose is suspected, emergency medical attention should be sought immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological symptoms such as confusion or seizures.