Furocef
Generic Name
Cefuroxime Axetil
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
furocef 500 mg tablet | ৳ 45.17 | ৳ 271.02 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Furocef 500 mg Tablet contains Cefuroxime Axetil, a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and otitis media. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 250 mg to 500 mg twice daily depending on the infection severity. For most infections, 250 mg to 500 mg every 12 hours for 5-10 days.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but dose reduction may be considered in cases of significant renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment required. For CrCl 10-29 mL/min, 250 mg every 24 hours. For CrCl <10 mL/min, 250 mg every 48 hours. Hemodialysis patients: 250 mg every 48 hours or after dialysis.
How to Take
Furocef 500 mg Tablet should be taken orally. For optimal absorption, it is recommended to take the tablet shortly after a meal. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush, chew, or divide it.
Mechanism of Action
Cefuroxime Axetil is a bactericidal antibiotic that acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall, which prevents the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains, a crucial step in the formation of the bacterial cell wall. This leads to the lysis and death of the bacterial cell.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Typically within 1 hour.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys, via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.
Half life
Approximately 1.2 to 1.5 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and hydrolyzed to cefuroxime. Enhanced absorption when taken with food. Bioavailability is approximately 37-52%.
Metabolism
Not metabolized in the liver; axetil ester is hydrolyzed in the intestinal mucosa and blood to active cefuroxime.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cefuroxime or any other cephalosporin antibiotics
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any other type of beta-lactam antibacterial agent (e.g., penicillins, carbapenems, monobactams)
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
May increase cefuroxime plasma levels and prolong its half-life by reducing renal tubular secretion.
Oral Contraceptives
Cefuroxime may reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives. Additional non-hormonal contraception is advised.
Antacids/H2 blockers/PPIs
May decrease the bioavailability of cefuroxime axetil by reducing gastric acidity.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May enhance the anticoagulant effect.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include cerebral irritation leading to convulsions. Management is primarily supportive. Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis can aid in the removal of cefuroxime from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus. Limited data in pregnant women suggest no increased risk of major birth defects. Use in pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cefuroxime is excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution in breastfeeding mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months from manufacturing date, specific to manufacturer.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Cefuroxime axetil has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety across various bacterial infections. Ongoing post-marketing surveillance and studies continue to monitor its long-term effects and resistance patterns.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (for prolonged therapy or in patients with renal impairment)
- Liver function tests (periodically during long-term therapy)
- Complete blood count (rarely for prolonged use)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to report any signs of allergic reactions immediately.
- Consider renal dose adjustment in elderly patients or those with impaired renal function.
- Warn patients about potential for C. difficile associated diarrhea, especially with prolonged use.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of antibiotics even if you feel better.
- Take with food for better absorption and to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
- Inform your doctor if you experience severe diarrhea or allergic reactions.
- Do not share this medicine with others.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Furocef may cause dizziness. Patients should be advised to exercise caution before driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Drink plenty of fluids unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment as it may worsen side effects.
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Global Brand Names
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