Antibiotic (Cephalosporin)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Cefuroxime is an antibiotic that works by killing bacteria that cause infections in your body. It belongs to a group called cephalosporins and stops bacteria from building their protective walls, which destroys them.
Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins and preventing cross-linking of peptidoglycan, leading to bacterial cell wall disruption and death. This second-generation cephalosporin demonstrates broad-spectrum activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms commonly responsible for respiratory tract, urinary tract, and skin infections.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For most infections, take one 250 mg or 500 mg tablet twice a day (morning and night) for 7 to 10 days, depending on your doctor's instruction. Always take it with food — this helps your body absorb the drug better. Swallow the tablet whole with water, do not crush or chew it.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for it.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always complete the full course of cefuroxime even if you feel better after a few days — stopping early can make the bacteria resistant, and the infection may come back stronger. Buy only from licensed pharmacies, not roadside vendors or open markets, as fake antibiotics are common in Nigeria. Do not share your prescription with others, even if they have similar symptoms — wrong use of antibiotics is dangerous.
Antacids and drugs that reduce stomach acid (like omeprazole or ranitidine) can reduce how well cefuroxime works — take them at least 2 hours apart. Blood thinners like warfarin may have stronger effects when taken with cefuroxime, increasing the risk of bleeding. Avoid excessive alcohol while on this drug as it may worsen stomach side effects.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Cefuroxime with your other drugs?
Cefuroxime is generally considered relatively safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but you should always consult your doctor before using it, as only they can weigh the benefits and risks for your specific situation.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be hot, so avoid leaving it on windowsills or in your car. Keep tablets in their original pack. If using the suspension (syrup), store it in a refrigerator after mixing and use within 10 to 14 days. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Cefuroxime?
Clinical tools built for Nigerian pharmacists — launching soon.