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Kefurox

 
Generic Name: cefuroxime

Brands: Ceftin


What is the most important information I should know about Kefurox?

· Take all of the Kefurox that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.

· Kefurox can be taken on an empty stomach or with food or milk if it causes stomach upset.

 

What is Kefurox?

· Kefurox is an antibiotic in a class of drugs called cephalosporins. Kefurox fights bacteria in the body.

· Kefurox is used to treat many different types of bacterial infections such as bronchitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis, ear infections, skin infections, gonorrhea, and urinary tract infections.

· Kefurox may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

 

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Kefurox?

· Do not take Kefurox if you have ever had an allergic reaction to another cephalosporin or to a penicillin unless your doctor is aware of the allergy and monitors your therapy.

· Before taking Kefurox, tell your doctor if you have     ·kidney disease, or     ·a gastrointestinal (digestive) disease such as colitis.

· You may not be able to take Kefurox, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have either of the conditions listed above.

· The Kefurox (Ceftin) suspension contains sucrose. Individuals with diabetes may need to be aware of the sucrose contained in this suspension.

· Kefurox is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not, however, take Kefurox without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

· Kefurox passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

 

How should I take Kefurox?

· Take this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Take each dose with a full glass of water.

· Kefurox can be taken on an empty stomach or with food or milk if it causes stomach upset.

· To ensure that you get the correct dose, measure the liquid form of Kefurox with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon,. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one. Shake the suspension well before measuring a dose.

· Take Kefurox at evenly spaced intervals to keep a constant level of drug in the body.

· It is important to take Kefurox regularly to get the most benefit.

· Take all of the Kefurox that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.

· Do not take Kefurox at the same time as antacids (e.g., Tums, Maalox, Rolaids, others) or other medications taken to reduce stomach acid such as cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB, others), famotidine (Pepcid, Pepcid AC, Pepcid RPD, others), ranitidine(Zantac, others), or nizatidine (Axid, others) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Antacids and stomach acid reducers may reduce the effects of Kefurox.

· Store the tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. The suspension can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Throw away any unused medication after 10 days.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then try to evenly space the rest of the doses for that day until you can return to a normal schedule. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

· Symptoms of a Kefurox overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and seizures.

 

What should I avoid while taking Kefurox?

· Do not take Kefurox at the same time as antacids (e.g., Tums, Maalox, Rolaids, others) or other medications taken to reduce stomach acid such as cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB, others), famotidine (Pepcid, Pepcid AC, Pepcid RPD, others), ranitidine(Zantac, others), or nizatidine (Axid, others) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Antacids and stomach acid reducers may reduce the effects of Kefurox.

 

What are the possible side effects of Kefurox?

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Kefurox and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:     ·an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; hives; or a rash);     ·rash, redness, or itching;     ·severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;     ·mucous or blood in the stool; or     ·unusual bleeding or bruising.

· Other, less serious side effects may also occur. Continue to take the medication and talk to your doctor if you experience     ·mild nausea or diarrhea, or     ·yeast infection of the mouth or vagina.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

 

What other drugs will affect Kefurox?

· Do not take Kefurox at the same time as antacids (e.g., Tums, Maalox, Rolaids, others) or other medications taken to reduce stomach acid such as cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB, others), famotidine (Pepcid, Pepcid AC, Pepcid RPD, others), ranitidine(Zantac, others), or nizatidine (Axid, others) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Antacids and stomach acid reducers may reduce the effects of Kefurox.

· Before taking Kefurox, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines     ·probenecid (Benemid);     ·a loop diuretic (water pill) such as furosemide, bumetanide (Bumex), torsemide (Demadex), or ethacrynic acid (Edecrin);     ·warfarin (Coumadin); or     ·another antibiotic.

· You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Kefurox. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Kefurox written for health professionals that you may read.

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