Axim 250 mg

Description

Indications

Cefuroxime is indicated for the treatment of bacterial infections caused by microorganisms sensitive to this antibiotic. It is particularly effective for treating:

• Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis: Caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.
• Acute Bacterial Otitis Media: Caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis (including beta-lactamase-producing strains), or Streptococcus pyogenes.

Always follow the guidance of a registered medical professional when using this medication.

Pharmacology

Cefuroxime is a highly effective and broad-spectrum bactericidal agent with proven activity against many common pathogens, including those that produce beta-lactamase. This makes it particularly useful in treating infections caused by bacteria resistant to other antibiotics like ampicillin or amoxicillin. The stability of Cefuroxime against beta-lactamase-producing bacteria allows it to remain effective even in the presence of resistant strains.

Dosage and Administration

Oral Administration (Tablet or Suspension)

For Adolescents and Adults (13 years and older):

• Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis: 250 mg twice daily for 5-10 days.
• Acute Bacterial Maxillary Sinusitis: 250 mg twice daily for 10 days.
• Acute Bacterial Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis: 250-500 mg twice daily for 10 days.
• Secondary Bacterial Infections of Acute Bronchitis: 250-500 mg twice daily for 5-10 days.
• Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections: 250-500 mg twice daily for 10 days.
• Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections: 250 mg twice daily for 7-10 days.
• Uncomplicated Gonorrhea: 1000 mg as a single dose.
• Community Acquired Pneumonia: 250-500 mg twice daily for 5-10 days.
• MDR Typhoid Fever: 500 mg twice daily for 10-14 days.
• Early Lyme Disease: 500 mg twice daily for 20 days.

For Pediatric Patients (3 months to 12 years):

• Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis: 20 mg/kg/day, twice daily, for 5-10 days.
• Acute Otitis Media: 30 mg/kg/day, twice daily, for 10 days.
• Acute Bacterial Maxillary Sinusitis: 30 mg/kg/day, twice daily, for 10 days.
• Impetigo: 30 mg/kg/day, twice daily, for 10 days.

Parenteral Administration (Injection)

For Adults:

• General Dosing: 750 mg three times daily by intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV) injection. In severe infections, the dose may be increased up to 1.5 g three times daily by IV injection. The frequency can be increased to four times daily, resulting in total daily doses of 3-6 grams.
• Surgical Prophylaxis: 1.5 g via IV injection at anesthesia induction. Up to 3 additional doses of 750 mg can be administered every 8 hours for high-risk surgeries.
• Pneumonia: 1.5 g IV injection twice daily for 2-3 days, followed by 500 mg twice daily orally for 7-10 days.
• Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis: 750 mg twice daily (IM or IV injection) for 2-3 days, followed by 500 mg twice daily (oral) for 5-10 days.
• In Gonorrhea: 1.5 g as a single dose (administered as two 750 mg IM injections at different sites).
• Meningitis: 3 g IV injection three times daily.

For Children (Above 3 months of age):

• General Dosing: 30-100 mg/kg/day, divided into 3-4 equal doses. A dose of 60 mg/kg/day is suitable for most infections.
• Bone and Joint Infections: 150 mg/kg/day (not to exceed adult doses), divided into 8-hour intervals.

For Neonates:

• General Dosing: 30-100 mg/kg/day, divided into 2-3 equal doses.

Reconstitution Instructions:

• For 750 mg IM Injection: Add 3 mL of water for injection to the vial and shake gently.
• For 750 mg IV Injection: Add 8 mL of water for injection to the vial and shake gently. Inject slowly into the vein over 3-5 minutes.
• For 1.5 g IV Injection: Add 16 mL of water for injection to the vial and shake gently. Inject slowly into the vein over 3-5 minutes.

Interaction

No significant drug interactions have been reported for Cefuroxime.

Contraindications

Cefuroxime should not be used in patients who have a known allergy to cephalosporins.

Side Effects

Adverse reactions to Cefuroxime are rare and generally mild, including:

• Rashes
• Gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
• Candida overgrowth (due to prolonged use of antibiotics)

Pregnancy & Lactation

Cefuroxime is classified under US FDA Pregnancy Category B. Although animal studies have not indicated harm, there are no adequate studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy should only occur if clearly necessary. Cefuroxime is excreted in human milk, so caution is advised when administering to nursing women.

Precautions & Warnings

Cefuroxime should be used with caution in patients on concurrent treatments with potent diuretics or those with a history of colitis. While cephalosporins are generally considered safe for penicillin-allergic patients, caution is recommended due to potential cross-reactivity.

Therapeutic Class

Second-generation cephalosporins.

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool, dry place (below 30°C), away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.