Cefuroxime (commonly supplied as cefuroxime axetil for oral use)
Brand names (as verified)
Zinnat; Ceftin (brand availability varies by market)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Common oral tablet strengths include 250 mg and 500 mg; suspension strengths and injectable products vary.
Prescription classification
Prescription only (Schedule H / verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
A second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used for bacterial infections including certain respiratory, ear, sinus, skin, and urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Not effective against viruses.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use if you have had a severe allergic reaction to cefuroxime or another cephalosporin. A history of serious penicillin or beta-lactam allergy requires careful clinical review before use.
Important precautions
Only use when a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected. Your doctor will review kidney function, antibiotic allergy history, and other medicines. Formulations are not always interchangeable ‚ follow the product leaflet.
Common side effects
Common side effects include diarrhoea, nausea, stomach discomfort, headache, and yeast overgrowth.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Get emergency care for a severe allergic reaction, serious skin reaction, bloody or watery diarrhoea that persists, or unusual bruising or bleeding.
Important interactions
Key interactions include warfarin, probenecid, and medicines that affect kidney function. Tell your pharmacist about all medicines and supplements you take.
Allergy considerations
Tell your doctor about any past reactions to cephalosporins, penicillins, or other beta-lactam antibiotics before starting treatment.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Use only when your doctor decides it is necessary after weighing the benefits and risks. Always check the specific product information.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Discuss breastfeeding use with your doctor or pharmacist. Monitor the infant for diarrhoea, thrush, or rash if advised.
Children and older adults
Children need an age- and weight-appropriate dose and formulation. Oral suspensions have their own preparation and storage directions ‚ follow them carefully.
Storage
Keep in the original, tightly closed pack away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Store out of reach of children. Follow formulation-specific storage directions.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless the next dose is due soon. Skip it if it is almost time ‚ never double up. Ask your pharmacist for advice with special schedules.
Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, call a poison helpline, emergency service, or healthcare professional immediately. Bring the medicine pack with you.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
Cefuroxime (commonly supplied as cefuroxime axetil for oral use)
Brand names (as verified)
Zinnat; Ceftin (brand availability varies by market)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Common oral tablet strengths include 250 mg and 500 mg; suspension strengths and injectable products vary.
Prescription classification
Prescription only (Schedule H / verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
A second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used for bacterial infections including certain respiratory, ear, sinus, skin, and urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Not effective against viruses.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use if you have had a severe allergic reaction to cefuroxime or another cephalosporin. A history of serious penicillin or beta-lactam allergy requires careful clinical review before use.
Important precautions
Only use when a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected. Your doctor will review kidney function, antibiotic allergy history, and other medicines. Formulations are not always interchangeable ‚ follow the product leaflet.
Common side effects
Common side effects include diarrhoea, nausea, stomach discomfort, headache, and yeast overgrowth.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Get emergency care for a severe allergic reaction, serious skin reaction, bloody or watery diarrhoea that persists, or unusual bruising or bleeding.
Important interactions
Key interactions include warfarin, probenecid, and medicines that affect kidney function. Tell your pharmacist about all medicines and supplements you take.
Allergy considerations
Tell your doctor about any past reactions to cephalosporins, penicillins, or other beta-lactam antibiotics before starting treatment.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Use only when your doctor decides it is necessary after weighing the benefits and risks. Always check the specific product information.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Discuss breastfeeding use with your doctor or pharmacist. Monitor the infant for diarrhoea, thrush, or rash if advised.
Children and older adults
Children need an age- and weight-appropriate dose and formulation. Oral suspensions have their own preparation and storage directions ‚ follow them carefully.
Storage
Keep in the original, tightly closed pack away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Store out of reach of children. Follow formulation-specific storage directions.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless the next dose is due soon. Skip it if it is almost time ‚ never double up. Ask your pharmacist for advice with special schedules.
Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, call a poison helpline, emergency service, or healthcare professional immediately. Bring the medicine pack with you.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
