About Ceftin (cefuroxime)
Cefuroxime is a cephalosporin antibiotic, which kills bacteria and prevents bacterial growth. Like other antibiotics, cephalosporin antibiotics are ineffective in treating colds, flus, and other viral infections.
Cefuroxime treats bacterial infections in the ear, nose, throat, bladder, and other parts of the body. It can also treat gonorrhea, sepsis, and early Lyme disease.
Cefuroxime is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including Ceftin.
Cefuroxime may be prescribed as a tablet or powder for suspension. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you are prescribed cefuroxime, be sure to complete the full course of the antibiotic treatment unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the antibiotic may not fully treat your bacterial infection.
Cefuroxime uses
There are several FDA-approved uses for cefuroxime, but your healthcare provider may also prescribe it off-label to treat other medical conditions.
Your PlushCare doctor may prescribe cefuroxime for any of the following reasons, or other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
Ear, nose, and throat infections
Cefuroxime is FDA-approved to treat pharyngitis (sore throat), tonsillitis, and bronchitis bacterial infections in adults and children. It's also used to treat nose and ear infections, including otitis media.
Skin infections
Cefuroxime is FDA-approved to treat bacterial infections, including uncomplicated skin infections, in adults and children.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Cefuroxime is FDA-approved to treat uncomplicated urinary tract infections in adults and children over the age of 13.
Early Lyme disease
Cefuroxime is FDA-approved to treat early Lyme disease in adults and children over the age of 13.
Gonorrhea
Cefuroxime is FDA-approved to treat uncomplicated gonorrhea in adults and children over the age of 13.
Cefuroxime side effects
The side effects associated with taking cefuroxime are typically mild. Most cefuroxime side effects are associated with an upset stomach.
Cefuroxime has some common side effects. They may include:
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Flu-like symptoms
Vaginal itching or discharge
Diaper rash (when using the oral suspension)
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Severe abdominal pain
Watery or bloody diarrhea
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Chest pain
Allergic reactions
You should tell your doctor if you notice any adverse effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. Cefuroxime may rarely cause a new infection or severe intestinal condition due to bacteria called C. difficile.
How to take cefuroxime
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your cefuroxime prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Cefuroxime can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. Cefuroxime oral tablets can be taken with or without food, while the oral suspension should be used with the supplied measuring device and taken with food.
What to avoid while taking Cefuroxime
Cefuroxime has 67 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications, supplements, and other drugs.
Possible drug interactions with cefuroxime include:
Other antibiotic medications
Probenecid
Diuretics (water pills)
Blood-thinning medications
Stomach acid reducers
While it's safe to drink alcohol while taking cefuroxime, alcohol consumption can make it harder for your body to fight infections.
Medication alternatives to cefuroxime
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another cephalosporin antibiotic or an antibiotic medication in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Ear, nose, and throat infection
Skin infection
Urinary tract infection
Early Lyme disease
Gonorrhea
Cefuroxime prescription FAQs
How much does cefuroxime cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, Ceftin costs around $217.94 for twenty 250 mg tablets without insurance. Fortunately, generic brands, such as cefuroxime, may offer a more affordable alternative.
How can I refill my cefuroxime prescription?
Cefuroxime is only available by prescription, so you will need to see a board-certified doctor to get a refill on your prescription. To get started, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After a qualifying evaluation, your prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy for pickup.
What should I avoid while taking cefuroxime?
Avoid taking other medications that may cause diarrhea, as prolonged or repeated periods of diarrhea can cause dehydration.
Who should not take cefuroxime?
Avoid taking cefuroxime if you have certain medical conditions, such as:
Allergic reaction to penicillin
Kidney disease
Phenylketonuria (PKU)
Does Ceftin have to be taken with food?
Ceftin oral suspension must be taken with meals, while cefuroxime tablets can be taken with or without food.
What happens if I miss a dose of cefuroxime?
If you miss a dose of cefuroxime, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.
What happens if I take too much cefuroxime?
If you've taken too much cefuroxime, call your doctor or local poison control center. If you experience serious symptoms, such as seizures, seek immediate medical help.
How many hours apart should you take Ceftin?
Take Ceftin as directed by your doctor. Typically, cefuroxime oral suspension is taken twice daily (every 12 hours).
3 simple steps to request your cefuroxime prescription today

Step 1
Book a cefuroxime prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.

Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your cefuroxime prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.

Step 3
Pick up your cefuroxime prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Cefuroxime prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your cefuroxime prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
Copay
For all visits
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
$129
Repeats only $99
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Cefuroxime prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information
Food and Drug Administration. Cefuroxime prescription label. Accessed on September 16, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/050605s048,050672s034lbl.pdf
Mayo Clinic. Cefuroxime (Oral Route). Accessed on September 16, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/cefuroxime-oral-route/description/drg-20073295
MedlinePlus. Cefuroxime. Accessed on September 16, 2022. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601206.html