Zinacef

What is it?

An antibacterial and cephalosporin and antibacterial preparation available in vials in 3 strengths containing 250mg, 750mg and 1.5g of cefuroxime as sodium salt.

Medical Uses

Infections of soft tissue, the respiratory and urinary tracts, bones and joints, meningitis, gonorrhoea, other serious infections pending laboratory results, prevention of infection during surgery.

Dosage

See literature.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, allergy to β-lactam antibiotics.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Aminoglycosides, loop diuretics.

Known Side Effects

Gastrointestinal upset, short-lived pain at injection site, hypersensitivity reactions, candidiasis when used long-term, blood cell changes (eosinophilia, leucopenia, neutropenia), fall in haemoglobin levels, positive Coombs test, short-lived rise in liver enzymes. In rare cases, thrombocytopenia (decline in blood platelets with increased likelihood of bleeding).

Manufacturer

Glaxosmithkline.