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Cefuroxime

Antibiotic

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What is cefuroxime?

Cefuroxime (also called Ceftin®) is used to prevent or treat infections. It is available as a 250 mg tablet and as a liquid suspension. Both are taken by mouth. It is also available as a clear liquid that is given by vein (IV).

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Possible side effects

  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Rash
  • Loss of appetite
  • Headache
  • Stomach pain
  • Allergic reaction with the following symptoms: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, swelling in the facial area, and joint pain

    These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take cefuroxime will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

  • Before taking cefuroxime, tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to any other cephalosporin or penicillin antibiotics. If you have allergy symptoms (listed above) or you have severe or watery diarrhea, tell your doctor right away.
  • Finish all doses of this medicine as instructed by your doctor, even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop taking this medicine unless your doctor tells you to do so.
  • Do not take cefuroxime while you are taking probenecid without telling your doctor. Probenecid may increase the levels of cefuroxime in your body.
  • Cefuroxime may cause a false-positive urine test result when checking your urine for sugar (glucose) levels.
  • If you are an outpatient taking cefuroxime through a portable pump (such as an Eclipse® device):
    • Finish all doses of cefuroxime as instructed by your doctor, even if you think your condition has improved.
    • Store cefuroxime in the refrigerator or on ice.
    • Place one (1) dose of cefuroxime at room temperature about 30 minutes before the dose is received.
    • See “Do You Know…Using the Eclipse® medicine device” for details.

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Drug at home:

  • You should take cefuroxime with food.
  • Store the tablet form at room temperature in dry place.
  • Shake the liquid well before you take it. Use an oral syringe or medicine cup to be sure you are taking the correct amount.
  • Store the liquid medicine in the refrigerator.
  • Discard the liquid medicine after 10 days or on the expiration date printed on the label.
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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