Indications
Ceftin Oral Suspension is a medication used for the treatment of bacterial infections. It contains cefuroxime axetil. Cefuroxime is in a class of medications called cephalosporin antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
The oral suspension form is commonly used for pediatric patients aged 3 months to 12 years with mild-to-moderate acute bacterial infections.
Ceftin can be indicated treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as bronchitis (infection of the airway tubes leading to the lungs); gonorrhea (a sexually transmitted disease); Lyme disease (an infection that may develop after a person is bitten by a tick); and infections of the skin, ears, sinuses, throat, tonsils and urinary tract.
Use and Dosage
Ceftin Oral Suspension is taken by mouth with food, usually twice a day (every 12 hours), as directed by a doctor. The dosage is based on the patient's medical condition and response to treatment. When reconstituted with water, the oral suspension provides the equivalent of 125 mg of cefuroxime (as cefuroxime axetil) per 5 mL.
Shake the bottle well before each dose. Measure the dose out carefully with a medication spoon/cup. Take Ceftin Suspension by mouth with food, usually twice daily (every 12 hours), or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. In children, the dosage is also based on weight.
Continue to take Ceftin Suspension until the full-prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of the infection.
Take the medication exactly as prescribed by a doctor and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Do not skip doses or stop taking the medication before the prescribed course is completed, as this can lead to the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Ceftin Oral Suspension (Cefuroxime Axetil):
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Ceftin Oral Suspension (Cefuroxime Axetil):
- A return of fever, sore throat, chills, or other signs of infection
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Hives
- Itching
- Rash
- Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, or eyes
- Watery or bloody stools, stomach cramps, or fever during treatment or for up to two or more months after stopping treatment
- Wheezing
Forms and Strength
Ceftin Oral Suspension (Cefuroxime Axetil) is available in the following forms and strength:
Ceftin Oral Suspension: Suspension
- 125mg/5mL
Cautions
- Allergic reactions: Patients with a history of allergic reactions to cephalosporins or penicillins should use this medication with caution.
- Diarrhea: Ceftin Oral Suspension can cause diarrhea in some patients. It is advised to monitor for diarrhea and notify a healthcare provider if it persists or worsens.
- Nephrotoxicity: This medication should be used with caution in patients with impaired renal function, such as those with kidney disease.
- Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea: This medication can increase the risk of developing Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), which is a potentially life-threatening infection. The symptoms of CDAD include severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
- Blood clotting disorders: This medication should be used with caution in patients with blood clotting disorders.
- Seizures: Rare cases of seizures have been reported with the use of this medication, particularly in patients with a history of seizures.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Ceftin Oral Suspension should be used with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is advised to consult a healthcare provider before using this medication.
- Liver disease: This medication should be used with caution in patients with liver disease as it may worsen their condition or increase the risk of side effects.
- Interactions with other medications: Ceftin Oral Suspension may interact with other medications, which can either increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of the medication. It is advised to inform the healthcare provider about any other medications the patient is taking.
- Use in patients with colitis: Ceftin Oral Suspension should be discontinued if pseudomembranous colitis occurs during the treatment.
- Use in patients with diabetes: Ceftin Oral Suspension may affect blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes, and they should monitor their blood sugar levels closely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I miss a dose of Ceftin Oral Suspension?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule.
Can Ceftin Oral Suspension be used to treat viral infections?
No, Ceftin Oral Suspension is not effective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
Can I stop taking Ceftin Oral Suspension once my symptoms improve?
Continue taking the medication for the entire prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve. Stopping the medication too early may result in the infection returning or worsening.
Is it safe to drive or operate machinery while taking Ceftin Oral Suspension?
Ceftin Oral Suspension may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some patients. Patients are advised to avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Resources
- https://www.healthline.com/health/cefuroxime-oral-tablet
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601206.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3770-5269/ceftin-oral/cefuroxime-suspension-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/dosage/ceftin-tablets-oral-suspension.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/050605s042lbl.pdf
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