Generic Cefuroxime

Common Use
Cefuroxime is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is effective against respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and Lyme disease. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell death.

Dosage and Direction
Cefuroxime is available as tablets, oral suspension, and injectable forms. The typical adult oral dose is 250–500 mg twice daily, depending on the type and severity of infection. It should be taken after food to enhance absorption. Complete the full course as prescribed, even if symptoms improve early.

Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems, gastrointestinal disease (especially colitis), or a history of allergies to penicillins or cephalosporins. Use with caution in patients with impaired renal function. Prolonged use may lead to secondary infections, including fungal overgrowth.

Contraindications
Cefuroxime is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to cephalosporin antibiotics. Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be based on a doctor’s assessment of risk vs. benefit.

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rash. Rare but serious side effects may include Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), and liver enzyme elevation. Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.

Drug Interaction
Cefuroxime may interact with antacids, proton pump inhibitors, and H2-receptor blockers, which reduce absorption. It may also enhance the effect of blood thinners like warfarin. Always inform your doctor about other drugs or supplements you are taking.

Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one—do not double the dose.

Overdose
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, or seizures (rare). In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

Storage
Store tablets and suspension at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Oral suspension (if reconstituted) should be refrigerated and used within the time period specified on the label (usually 10 days).

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)