CEFTIN (CEFUROXIME)

Ceftin Description

Ceftin is a cephalosporin drug that treats a number of bacterial infections, including strept throat, urinary tract infections, impetigo, bronchitis, and skin infections. It will not work for viral or fungal infections. Testing may be required for certain infections to be sure it is caused by bacteria, however your results take time so your doctor may proceed to prescribe Ceftin (Cefuroxime) until results confirm if it is a bacteria causing the infection. Should results indicate a viral or fungal infection, you will be instructed to stop taking Ceftin and advised further by your doctor if there is another treatment plan.

How Ceftin Affects Bacterial Cell Membranes

When taken as directed, Ceftin will work by binding to certain enzymes to block their activity so they are unable to make peptidoglycan. This is a vital component that bacteria need to form a protective cell wall. If the bacteria cannot make peptidoglycan, the cell walls will be weak and unable to hold in the contents. As pressure builds inside the cell membranes, they eventually burst and kill the bacteria.

Some advantages of taking Ceftin or generic Cefuroxime are it is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, it causes less gastrointestinal side effects, and absorption is increased when taken with a meal. Ceftin is also available in a liquid solution so children as young as 3 months old are able to take it to treat bacterial infections. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Conditions Treated by Ceftin

Strep or strept throat refers to the bacteria that cause this painful condition, group A Streptococcus. Strep throat is highly contagious and can be spread by sharing eating utensils or glasses and from airborne droplets from your mouth as you cough or sneeze. The infection is seen at the back of your throat and tonsils (if not removed) as white patches covering inflamed, red tissue and is quite painful when you need to swallow. Treatment with Ceftin usually lasts 10 days, depending on the infection.

Before Ceftin is Prescribed to You

Ask your doctor about the safety of taking Ceftin if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Report other medical conditions or allergies to your doctor, especially to penicillin, and provide a list of OTC and Rx drugs you currently take or use, including alternative medicine and naturopathic therapies. This helps to determine if Ceftin is the best medication for your situation.

Ceftin Precautions

Until you know how your body reacts to Ceftin, avoid driving, operating machinery, or any activity that could be unsafe if you are light-headed. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications while taking Ceftin without first discussing it with your doctor. All meds should be stored safely out of children’s reach and never share them with anyone else.

Possible Side Effects of Ceftin

• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headache