Ceftin (cefuroxime axetil) is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic indicated for the treatment of a wide spectrum of bacterial infections. It functions by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bactericidal activity against susceptible organisms. This oral formulation combines broad-spectrum coverage with favorable pharmacokinetics, making it a valuable therapeutic option for both community-acquired and more complex infections where penicillin-resistant strains may be suspected.

Features

• Contains cefuroxime axetil as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Available in 250mg and 500mg film-coated tablets
• Demonstrated efficacy against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria
• β-lactamase stable formulation resists degradation by many bacterial enzymes
• Oral bioavailability enhanced by the axetil ester prodrug technology
• Twice-daily dosing regimen supports patient compliance

Benefits

• Provides broad-spectrum coverage for respiratory, skin, and urinary tract infections
• Effective against β-lactamase producing strains of Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis
• Demonstrates excellent tissue penetration at infection sites
• Reduces risk of treatment failure through bactericidal mechanism of action
• Convenient oral administration avoids need for intravenous therapy in appropriate cases
• Established safety profile with extensive clinical use history

Common use

Ceftin is commonly prescribed for the treatment of acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, early Lyme disease, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections. It is also used for otitis media in pediatric populations and as prophylaxis against postoperative infections in certain surgical procedures. The medication demonstrates particular utility in respiratory infections where coverage against both typical and atypical pathogens is required.

Dosage and direction

Administer Ceftin tablets orally with food to enhance absorption. The recommended dosage for adults is typically 250-500mg twice daily, depending on infection severity and pathogen susceptibility. For pharyngitis/tonsillitis: 250mg twice daily for 10 days. For bacterial sinusitis: 250mg twice daily for 10 days. For skin infections: 250-500mg twice daily for 10 days. For Lyme disease: 500mg twice daily for 20 days. Pediatric dosing is based on body weight at 10-15mg/kg twice daily (maximum 500mg daily). Complete the full course of therapy even if symptoms improve earlier.

Precautions

Use with caution in patients with renal impairment (dosage adjustment required for CrCl <30mL/min). Monitor for superinfection or pseudomembranous colitis during and after treatment. May cause false-positive reaction for glucose in urine using copper reduction tests. Use in pregnancy only if clearly needed (Category B). Exercise caution in breastfeeding women as cefuroxime is excreted in human milk. Reduced efficacy possible in patients with impaired absorption syndromes.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to cefuroxime or other cephalosporin antibiotics. Patients with known anaphylactic reactions to penicillins may cross-react to cephalosporins. Not recommended for patients with phenylketonuria (tablets contain phenylalanine). Avoid use in patients with history of severe gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis.

Possible side effect

Common adverse reactions include diarrhea (3-7%), nausea/vomiting (2-5%), abdominal pain, and headache. Less frequent effects may include transient eosinophilia, elevated liver enzymes, vaginal candidiasis, or rash. Serious but rare side effects include pseudomembranous colitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, hemolytic anemia, and anaphylaxis. Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity reactions, especially in penicillin-allergic patients.

Drug interaction

Probenecid may increase and prolong cefuroxime blood levels. Antacids and H2-receptor antagonists may reduce absorption. May potentiate nephrotoxicity when used with aminoglycosides or potent diuretics. False-positive Coombs’ test possible. May reduce efficacy of oral contraceptives (recommend additional contraceptive methods). Monitor coagulation parameters when used with anticoagulants.

Missed dose

Take the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintain regular dosing intervals to ensure consistent therapeutic blood levels. If multiple doses are missed, contact healthcare provider for guidance on resuming therapy.

Overdose

Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and convulsions (particularly in renal impairment). Treatment is supportive with gastric lavage if recent ingestion. Hemodialysis may enhance elimination in cases of significant overdose, especially in patients with renal compromise. Monitor renal function and provide symptomatic care as needed.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in original container. Protect from moisture and light. Keep tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use after expiration date printed on packaging. Do not transfer to other containers as moisture protection may be compromised.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Ceftin is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual patient response may vary, and proper diagnosis should precede any treatment decisions. Always follow the prescribing information provided by the manufacturer and your healthcare provider.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Ceftin’s efficacy with cure rates of 85-95% across approved indications. Physicians report reliable performance in community-acquired respiratory infections, particularly noting effectiveness against β-lactamase producing organisms. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate good tolerability profile with most adverse effects being mild and self-limiting. The twice-daily dosing regimen is frequently cited as advantageous for compliance compared to more frequent dosing antibiotics.