Cefuroxime
Tablet or injection
Quick Summary
Cefuroxime works against a range of common bacteria.
Medical Uses
How it's taken
Tablets are taken after food.
Take it for the full course, even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Don't share antibiotics or keep leftovers.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you and how long to take it.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Diarrhoea
Common.
Nausea
And tummy upset.
Thrush
Sometimes.
Interactions
Antacids
May reduce absorption.
Critical Warnings
Allergy
Black Box Warning: Tell your doctor about penicillin or cephalosporin allergy.
Severe or bloody diarrhoea
Can be a sign of a serious bowel infection. Contact a doctor.
Severe allergic reaction
Black Box Warning: Swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash: get emergency help.
Antibiotic resistance
Using antibiotics when they aren't needed makes them less effective for everyone.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Cefuroxime: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine