Introduction
Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid is a combination antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections in people. It contains cefuroxime axetil, which is a cephalosporin antibiotic, and clavulanic acid, which is a beta-lactamase inhibitor. It works by preventing the growth and multiplication of bacteria.
Uses
Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid is used to treat a variety of infections caused by bacteria, such as bronchitis, sinusitis, pneumonia, bone and joint infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections.
Mechanism of Action
Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid works by killing or slowing the growth of susceptible bacteria. Cefuroxime is a cephalosporin antibiotic, and it works by interfering with the bacteria’s cell wall formation in order to weaken it and destroy it. Clavulanic acid is a beta-lactamase inhibitor, and it works by blocking the production of beta-lactamase, an enzyme which can destroy cefuroxime.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid begins to work immediately after it is taken, and most people start to feel better within a few days. However, it is important to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you are feeling better.
Absorption
Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid is rapidly and almost completely absorbed after oral administration. It is rapidly and widely distributed to most body tissues and fluids, including cerebrospinal fluid.
Route of Elimination
Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid is eliminated mainly by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. A small amount is metabolized in the liver.
Dosage
Adolescents and adults (13 years and older)-- Pharyngitis/tonsillitis: 250 mg b.i.d. for 5-10 days
- Acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis: 250 mg b.i.d. for 10 days
- Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis: 250-500 mg b.i.d. for 10 days
- Secondary bacterial infections of acute bronchitis: 250-500 mg b.i.d. for 5-10 days
- Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections: 250-500 mg b.i.d. for 10 days
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections: 250 mg b.i.d. for 7-10 days
- Uncomplicated Gonorrhoea: 1000 mg b.i.d. Single dose
- Community acquired pneumonia: 250-500 mg b.i.d. for 5-10 days
- MDR Typhoid Fever: 500 mg b.i.d. for 10-14 days
- Early Lyme disease: 500 mg b.i.d. for 20 days
- Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis: 20 mg/kg/day b.i.d for 5-10 days
- Acute otitis media: 30 mg/kg/day b.i.d for 10 days
- Acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis: 30 mg/kg/day b.i.d for 10 days
- Impetigo: 30 mg/kg/day b.i.d for 10 days
The recommended dose of Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid for adults is 500 mg every 8-12 hours. For pediatric patients, the recommended dose is 250-500 mg every 6-12 hours.
Administration
Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid can be taken with or without food. It is recommended to take it with food or a glass of milk to reduce the risk of stomach irritation.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and skin rash.
Toxicity
Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid is generally well tolerated with few side effects. It is not known to be directly toxic to people.
Precautions
It is important to tell your doctor if you have any known allergies to cephalosporin medications. People with impaired kidney or liver function should use this medication cautiously, as it can cause increased levels of the medication in the body.
Interactions
Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid may interact with certain other medications, such as probenecid, warfarin, and other antibiotics. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking before taking this medication.
Disease Interactions
People with a history of kidney or liver disease should use this medication cautiously, as it can cause increased levels of the medication in the body.
Drug Interactions
Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid may interact with certain other medications, such as probenecid, warfarin, and other antibiotics. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking before taking this medication.
Food Interactions
This medication may be taken with food or a glass of milk to reduce the risk of stomach irritation.
Pregnancy Use
The use of Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid in pregnant women is not recommended due to the potential for harm to the fetus.
Lactation Use
The use of Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid in lactating women is not recommended due to the potential for harm to the infant.
Acute Overdose
Symptoms of an acute overdose of Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to difficulty breathing, confusion, rapid heartbeat, and seizures. If an acute overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.
Contraindication
Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid is contraindicated in patients with known allergies to cephalosporin medications.
Use Direction
Take Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid as directed by your doctor. The recommended dose for adults is 500 mg every 8-12 hours, and the recommended dose for pediatric patients is 250-500 mg every 6-12 hours. It can be taken with or without food.
Storage Condition
Store Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid at room temperature, away from heat and light. Keep all medication out of the reach of children.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid is 0.5-0.7 L/kg.
Half Life
The half life of Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid is 2-4 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid is 0.15-0.25 ml/min/kg.
