Cefotil 500 mg

Description

Indications
Cefuroxime is prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections caused by susceptible microorganisms. These include:

• 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.
• Acute Bacterial Sinusitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Moraxella catarrhalis.
• Uncomplicated Skin Infections such as impetigo, cellulitis, and abscesses.
• Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Community-acquired Pneumonia, MDR Typhoid Fever, and Early Lyme Disease.
• Secondary bacterial infections in chronic respiratory conditions.

Note: Always use this medication as directed by a registered healthcare provider.

Pharmacology
Cefuroxime is a broad-spectrum bactericidal antibiotic that effectively combats a wide range of pathogens, including those that produce beta-lactamase. Its resistance to bacterial beta-lactamase makes it particularly effective against strains resistant to ampicillin and amoxicillin.

Dosage and Administration

Tablet or Suspension Formulation:

• 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.
  • 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.
  • Gonorrhoea: 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 Paediatric Patients (3 months to 12 years):

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

Parenteral (Injection):

• Adult Dosage:

  • 750 mg, administered three times daily via intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV) injection. In severe infections, the dose may be increased to 1.5 g three times daily. The daily dose may be adjusted based on the severity of the infection.
  • Surgical Prophylaxis: 1.5 gm by IV at the induction of anesthesia; additional doses may be given for high-risk procedures.
  • Pneumonia: 1.5 gm IV twice daily for 2-3 days, followed by 500 mg orally for 7-10 days.
  • Gonorrhoea: 1.5 gm as a single dose (administered in two 750 mg injections).

• Paediatric Dosage (Above 3 months of age):

  • 30 – 100 mg/kg/day, divided into 3-4 doses based on the severity of the infection.

Note: Always consult a healthcare provider for appropriate dosing and adjustments.

Interactions
No significant drug interactions have been reported with Cefuroxime.

Contraindications
Cefuroxime is contraindicated in individuals who are allergic to cephalosporins.

Side Effects
While Cefuroxime generally has a low incidence of side effects, some may occur, including:

• Rashes
• Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea or diarrhea
• Prolonged use may lead to overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, such as Candida.

Pregnancy and Lactation
Cefuroxime is classified as a Pregnancy Category B drug by the US FDA, indicating that animal studies have shown no harmful effects, but there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy only when absolutely necessary. Cefuroxime is excreted in human milk, so caution is advised when administered to breastfeeding mothers.

Precautions and Warnings

• Caution should be taken when Cefuroxime is administered to patients receiving diuretics or those with a history of colitis.
• Although generally safe for patients with penicillin allergies, cross-reactions may occur. Always consult a doctor before starting treatment.
• It is recommended to monitor patients on prolonged therapy for signs of overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms.

Therapeutic Class
Second-generation Cephalosporin antibiotic.

Reconstitution
For IM and IV injections, reconstitution with water for injection is required as follows:

• 750 mg IM: Add 3 ml water for injection and shake gently.
• 750 mg IV: Add 8 ml water for injection and shake gently. The solution should be administered slowly over 3-5 minutes.
• 1.5 g IV: Add 16 ml water for injection and shake gently. The solution should be injected slowly into the vein over 3-5 minutes.

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

Note: Always follow the instructions of a registered healthcare professional regarding medication usage.