What is cefuroxime?
Cefuroxim is a broadband antibiotic from the group of cephalosporins (2nd generation). It is used in various bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections (blasenitis, renal pelvic inflammation), respiratory infections and skin infections.
Cefuroximaxetil is used as oral form, which is converted into active cefuroxime in the body. It is available as a generic product from numerous manufacturers and is usually used as a reserve medication for urinary tract infections if first line therapies are not suitable.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Cefuroxim (als Cefuroximaxetil)
Active mechanism:
- Cefuroxim inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis
- Ties to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs)
- Prevents cross-linking of the peptideoglykan
- The bacterial cell can no longer divide and dies
Activity spectrum:
- Gram-positive pathogens: staphylococci, streptococci
- Gram-negative pathogens: E. coli, Klebsiella, Proteus, Haemophilus
- Stable to many beta lactamases
Resistance situation: The resistance rates of E. coli increase compared to cephalosporins. Therefore, Cefuroxim is not the first choice for uncomplicated bladder inflammation, but reserve option.
Who is it suitable for?
Cefuroxim is suitable for:
- urinary tract infections (lower and upper)
- Complicated bladder inflammation
- If first line antibiotics are not suitable or ineffective
- respiratory infections, skin infections, borreliosis
Not suitable:
- In known allergy to cephalosporins or heavy penicillin allergy (crease allergy possible)
- Infectious cefuroxim resistance
Available Dosages
Blase infection:
- 250 mg twice a day for 5–7 days (uncomplicated)
- 500 mg twice a day for 7–14 days (complicated)
Other infections:
- 250–500 mg twice a day, depending on the severity
Available starches:
- 250 mg, 500 mg film tablets
- juice available for children
Dosis adjustment:
- For severe renal insufficiency (GFR < 20 ml/min): dose reduction
How to Take
Intake:
- twice a day, morning and evening
- After meals take (improved 40–50 %)
- Swallow all pills with water
- Uniform distance of about 12 hours
Important notes:
- Antibiotics course to complete IMMER
- Do not break prematurely even in case of improvement
- Drinking rich in support
- In case of diarrhea during taking: inform doctor
Contraindications
**Cefuroxime must not be taken at:* *
- allergy to cephalosporins
- Heavy hypersensitivity (Anaphylaxis) against penicilline (Cross allergy risk)
Preview at:
- Light penicillin allergy (Cross allergy about 1–5%)
- Kidney insufficiency (dose adjustment)
- Gastrointestinal diseases (increased C.-difficile risk)
- Pregnancy: Application possible if clinically indicated
Possible Side Effects
Family (1–10 %):
- diarrhea
- nausea
- stomach pain
- Headaches
** Occasionally (0.1-1 %):* *
- Skin rash, Urtikaria
- Mushroom infection (vaginal/oral)
- Increased liver levels
- Squeeze
Selten, but seriously:
- C.-difficile-associated diarrhea (pseudomembranous colitis)
- Heavy allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
- Blood-image changes
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is cefuroxime right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.