Cefuroxime

Cefuroxime

Brand Name: cefuroxime axetil, Ceftin, cefuroxime sodium, Kefurox, Zinacef

Pregnancy Category B

Drug classes: Antibiotic, Cephalosporin (second generation)

 

Therapeutic actions

Bactericidal: inhibits synthesis of bacterial cell wall, causing cell death.

 

Indications

Upper and Lower Respiratory Tract Infections, Skin Infections

· Treatment of early Lyme disease

 

Contraindications and cautions

· Allergy to cephalosporins or penicillins, renal failure, lactation, pregnancy

 

Adverse effects

Headache, dizziness, lethargy, paresthesias, Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, abdominal pain, flatulence, pseudomembranous colitis, liver toxicity, Nephrotoxicity, bone marrow depression, decreased WBC, decreased platelets, decreased Hct, Ranging from rash to fever to anaphylaxis, serum sickness reaction, Pain, abscess at injection site, phlebitis, inflammation at IV site, Superinfections, disulfiram-like reaction with alcohol

Drug Interactions:

· Increased nephrotoxicity with aminoglycosides

· Increased bleeding effects with oral anticoagulants

 

Nursing considerations

· Culture infection, arrange for sensitivity tests before and during therapy if expected response is not seen.

· Give oral drug with food to decrease GI upset and enhance absorption.

· Give oral drug to children who can swallow tablets; crushing the drug results in a bitter, unpleasant taste.

· Have vitamin K available in case hypoprothrombinemia occurs.

· Discontinue if hypersensitivity reaction occurs.