Comprehensive Product Description Guide: Ceftin (Cefuroxime Axetil)

What is Ceftin used for
Ceftin is an oral antibiotic containing cefuroxime axetil, used to treat bacterial infections such as bronchitis, sinusitis, skin infections, urinary tract infections, and Lyme disease. It belongs to the cephalosporin class and works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.

Ceftin 250 mg / 500 mg Tablets (Cefuroxime Axetil)

Cefuroxime Axetil (a prodrug of cefuroxime)

Other Common Names & Brand Equivalents:
Cefuroxime

Zinnat (International brand)

Kefurox

Zinacef (injectable form of cefuroxime)
Therapeutic Class: Antibiotic

Pharmacologic Class: Second-Generation Cephalosporin

ATC Code: J01DC02

Prescription Status: Schedule 4 (Prescription-Only Medicine in Australia)
Ceftin contains cefuroxime axetil, a beta-lactam cephalosporin antibiotic. After oral administration, cefuroxime axetil is hydrolyzed in the gastrointestinal tract to release the active drug cefuroxime.
Inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs)

Disruption of the cell wall leads to bacterial cell lysis and death

Broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms
Ceftin is indicated for the treatment of the following bacterial infections:

Respiratory tract infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis)

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) including cystitis and pyelonephritis

Skin and soft tissue infections

Otitis media (middle ear infection)

Lyme disease (early stage) – particularly erythema migrans

Gonorrhoea (uncomplicated cases)

Bacterial sinusitis
Ceftin must be prescribed and adjusted by a healthcare professional.
Indication Dose Duration
Respiratory Tract Infections 250–500 mg twice daily 7–10 days
Skin & Soft Tissue Infections 250–500 mg twice daily 7–10 days
Urinary Tract Infections 125–250 mg twice daily 5–7 days
Lyme Disease (early) 500 mg twice daily 20 days
Gonorrhoea (uncomplicated) Single 1 g dose One-time use

Take with food to enhance absorption

Swallow tablets whole with water; do not crush or chew
Route: Oral

Available Strengths: 250 mg, 500 mg tablets

Bioavailability: Enhanced when taken with meals

Pediatric Use: Suspension formulation available for children

Adjustment: Required in renal impairment
Pregnancy Category B: Generally considered safe but use only when clearly needed

Breastfeeding: Small amounts are excreted in breast milk; monitor for diarrhea or candidiasis in infants

Contraindicated in patients with known cephalosporin hypersensitivity
Diarrhea

Nausea and vomiting

Abdominal pain

Headache

Dizziness
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD)

Hypersensitivity reactions (rash, pruritus, urticaria)

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (rare)

Elevated liver enzymes

Neutropenia or leukopenia

Seizures (rare, especially in renal impairment)
Allergy cross-sensitivity with penicillins: exercise caution

Prolonged use may lead to superinfection (e.g., candidiasis)

Discontinue immediately if allergic reactions (anaphylaxis, rash, swelling) occur

Adjust dosage in renal impairment

Monitor liver function and CBC during long-term therapy

May affect glucose urine tests and Coombs' test (false positives)
Probenecid: Increases serum levels of cefuroxime by decreasing renal excretion

Antacids/H2 blockers: May reduce absorption of cefuroxime axetil

Oral contraceptives: May reduce effectiveness—consider backup contraception

Live vaccines: May reduce efficacy during antibiotic use
Store at below 25°C

Protect from moisture and light

Keep in original packaging and out of reach of children
Dowell ME et al. (JAC, 2001): Ceftin shown effective in acute bacterial sinusitis and bronchitis with cure rates >85%

Wormser GP et al. (NEJM, 2006): Ceftin effective in treating early Lyme disease; comparable to doxycycline

FDA/EMA-approved for multiple indications with strong safety record in adult and pediatric use

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Ceftin used for?
A: Ceftin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as bronchitis, sinusitis, skin infections, UTIs, and early Lyme disease.

Q: Can I take Ceftin on an empty stomach?
A: It is best taken with food to improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

Q: How long does it take for Ceftin to work?
A: Most patients begin to see symptom relief within 48 to 72 hours, but the full course must be completed.

Q: Is Ceftin safe during pregnancy?
A: Ceftin is generally considered safe in pregnancy (Category B), but consult your doctor before use.

Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking Ceftin?
A: While alcohol doesn’t directly interact with cefuroxime, it may exacerbate side effects like nausea or dizziness.

Q: Does Ceftin treat COVID-19?
A: No. Ceftin is an antibiotic and does not work against viral infections like COVID-19 or influenza.

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