Liquid Alternative to Ceftin
Cefuroxime axetil oral suspension is the liquid formulation that provides the same active ingredient as Ceftin tablets. 1
Formulation Details
The FDA-approved cefuroxime axetil oral suspension is available in two strengths: 125 mg/5 mL and 250 mg/5 mL when reconstituted with water. 1
- The suspension contains cefuroxime as cefuroxime axetil, identical to the tablet formulation, but in a liquid form suitable for pediatric use or patients who cannot swallow tablets 1
- The suspension formulation includes flavoring agents (peppermint and tutti frutti) to improve palatability 1
Important Bioavailability Consideration
The suspension and tablet formulations are NOT bioequivalent—the suspension has lower bioavailability than tablets. 2
- Clinical studies demonstrated that 250 mg of suspension produces lower serum concentrations and different pharmacokinetic parameters compared to 250 mg tablets 2
- This means you cannot simply substitute the same milligram dose when switching between formulations 2
- Despite this difference, both formulations have proven clinical efficacy in treating respiratory tract infections when dosed appropriately 3, 4
Clinical Palatability Issue
A significant caveat: cefuroxime axetil suspension is notably unpalatable and poorly accepted by children, which can compromise adherence. 5
- Guidelines specifically note that while cefuroxime axetil is available as a suspension with twice-daily dosing advantage, the taste is a major limitation 5
- In contrast, alternative cephalosporins like cefdinir have suspension formulations that are "very well accepted among children" 5
- If palatability is a concern, consider alternative liquid cephalosporins such as cefdinir or cefpodoxime (though cefpodoxime also has poor taste) 5