What is cefuroxime used for? 

Cefuroxime is an antibiotic that can be used for a variety of infections.

• Skin and soft tissue infection

• Intra abdominal infection 

• Ear infection

• Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis (Group A Strep) 

• Pneumonia 

• Urinary tract infection 

• Sinus infection 

What are the most common side effects seen with cefuroxime? 

• Diarrhea

• Nausea (made worse with the poor taste of the medication) 

• Vomiting 

Contraindications

Cefuroxime shouldn’t be taken if your child has had an anaphylactic reaction (hives or swelling of the tongue) to cefuroxime previously or other medications that are similar to cefuroxime (they are a drug class called cephalosporins). 

Tips & Tricks to administer cefuroxime

If your child is having difficulty taking cefuroxime (liquid or tablets), it can be mixed in some foods or beverages. Please keep in mind that if a medication is mixed with food or drink, it should be taken immediately. The mixture should not be saved or consumed later.

Cefuroxime can be mixed with: 

• Suspension (Liquid)

  • Mix with food or beverage (cold milk, fruit juice or lemonade)

• Tablets

  • Any food or beverage based on the child's preference (note that crushing the tablets will make them taste more bitter when mixed with food or drink)

How to store cefuroxime

• Cefuroxime tablets should be stored at room temperature.

• Cefuroxime suspension (liquid) can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. 

Breast feeding considerations 

• Cefuroxime can be present in breast milk if being taken by the mother. 

• Cefuroxime is generally considered as compatible with breastfeeding. 

• In some cases, the nursing infant can experience diarrhea from the cefuroxime in the breast milk. 

The information in this database regarding prescription drugs is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interaction or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. See disclaimer.