What is the appropriate dosing of Cefuroxime for a simple Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

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Last updated: February 11, 2025View editorial policy

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From the FDA Drug Label

In uncomplicated urinary tract infections, skin and skin­-structure infections, disseminated gonococcal infections, and uncomplicated pneumonia, a 750 mg dose every 8 hours is recommended. The appropriate dosing of Cefuroxime for a simple Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is 750 mg every 8 hours 1.

  • The duration of treatment is typically 5 to 10 days.
  • It is essential to note that doses smaller than those indicated should not be used.
  • In patients with impaired renal function, the dosage should be adjusted according to the degree of renal impairment.

From the Research

Dosing of Cefuroxime for Simple UTI

  • The appropriate dosing of Cefuroxime for a simple Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is 250 mg twice daily 2, 3.
  • This dosing regimen has been shown to be effective in treating uncomplicated UTIs, with a success rate of 97% 3.
  • A single daily dose of 250 mg of cefuroxime axetil, a prodrug of cefuroxime, has also been studied and found to be effective in treating acute uncomplicated UTIs, with a cure rate of 86% 4.
  • However, it is worth noting that the use of cefuroxime for UTIs is generally considered alternative to other antibiotics, such as trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole, and should be guided by susceptibility testing 2.
  • The efficacy of cefuroxime against common UTI pathogens, such as Escherichia coli, has been demonstrated in several studies 2, 3, 4.

Comparison with Other Antibiotics

  • Cefuroxime has been compared to other antibiotics, such as cefaclor and amoxycillin/clavulanate, and found to be equally effective in treating uncomplicated UTIs 3.
  • However, cefotaxime, a third-generation cephalosporin, has been shown to be superior to cefuroxime in treating complicated and hospital-acquired UTIs 5.
  • Cefixime, another oral cephalosporin, has also been studied for the treatment of UTIs and found to be effective, particularly in uncomplicated cases 6.

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.

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