What is the recommended dose and frequency of Cefuroxime (Ceftin)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: March 12, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

Cefuroxime axetil is recommended at a dose of 500 mg twice per day for adults and 30 mg/kg per day in 2 divided doses (maximum, 500 mg per dose) for children. This dosage is based on the guidelines for the treatment of Lyme disease, as outlined in the Clinical Infectious Diseases journal 1. The recommended dosage is intended to effectively treat the infection while minimizing the risk of adverse effects. It is essential to note that the dosage may need to be adjusted for patients with impaired renal function.

When considering the treatment of Lyme disease, it is crucial to choose an antimicrobial regimen that is effective and has a favorable safety profile. The guidelines recommend cefuroxime axetil as one of the preferred oral regimens for the treatment of Lyme disease 1. The medication should be taken as directed, and patients should complete the full prescribed course to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.

Some key points to consider when prescribing cefuroxime axetil include:

  • The medication is typically taken twice daily, with or without food, to enhance absorption and reduce stomach upset.
  • Patients with a history of penicillin allergy should use caution when taking cefuroxime axetil, as there is a potential for cross-reactivity.
  • Common side effects of cefuroxime axetil include diarrhea, nausea, and headache.
  • The treatment course for Lyme disease typically lasts 14-21 days, although the duration may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's response to treatment.

It is essential to consult the guidelines and relevant clinical evidence when making treatment decisions, as outlined in the Clinical Infectious Diseases journal 1. By following the recommended dosage and treatment guidelines, healthcare providers can optimize treatment outcomes and minimize the risk of adverse effects for patients with Lyme disease.

From the FDA Drug Label

5 gram dose every 8 hours is recommended. In bone and joint infections, a 1. 5-gram dose every 8 hours is recommended. In life-threatening infections or infections due to less susceptible organisms, 1. 5 grams every 6 hours may be required. In bacterial meningitis, the dosage should not exceed 3 grams every 8 hours. The recommended dosage for uncomplicated gonococcal infection is 1.5 grams given intramuscularly as a single dose at 2 different sites together with 1 gram of oral probenecid. For preventive use for clean-contaminated or potentially contaminated surgical procedures, a 1. 5-gram dose administered intravenously just before surgery (approximately one-half to 1 hour before the initial incision) is recommended. Pediatric Patients Above 3 Months of Age: Administration of 50 to 100 mg/kg/day in equally divided doses every 6 to 8 hours has been successful for most infections susceptible to cefuroxime

The recommended dose and frequency of Cefuroxime (Ceftin) are:

  • 5 grams every 8 hours for most infections
  • 1.5 grams every 8 hours for bone and joint infections
  • 1.5 grams every 6 hours for life-threatening infections or infections due to less susceptible organisms
  • Not to exceed 3 grams every 8 hours for bacterial meningitis
  • 1.5 grams as a single dose for uncomplicated gonococcal infection
  • 50 to 100 mg/kg/day in equally divided doses every 6 to 8 hours for pediatric patients above 3 months of age 2

From the Research

Recommended Dose and Frequency of Cefuroxime (Ceftin)

  • The recommended dose of Cefuroxime axetil for most infections is 250 mg twice daily 3.
  • For some urinary tract infections, a dose of 125 mg twice daily has been shown to be effective 3.
  • In cases of pneumonia or more severe lower respiratory tract infections, doses of 500 mg twice daily should be used 3.
  • Uncomplicated gonorrhoea has been shown to respond to a single 1-g dose of cefuroxime axetil 3.
  • Cefuroxime axetil is available as capsule-shaped tablets containing 125,250, or 500 mg, and an oral suspension dosage form for pediatric purposes is also available 3.

Special Considerations

  • The pharmacokinetic profile of cefuroxime axetil permits convenient twice-daily administration 4.
  • Cefuroxime axetil has been shown to be effective in the treatment of various infections, including otitis media, pharyngitis, sinusitis, community-acquired pneumonia, and acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis 4.
  • The drug is well tolerated by adult and pediatric patients, with adverse effects that are consistent with those of other cephalosporins 4.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Cefuroxime axetil.

International journal of antimicrobial agents, 1994

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.