What Is Cefuroxime? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Cefuroxime is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections including sinusitis, ear infections, strep throat, UTIs, and early Lyme disease.

If your doctor prescribed Cefuroxime — or you're researching it before an appointment — this guide covers everything you need to know: what it treats, how to take it, who should avoid it, and what it costs in 2026.

What Is Cefuroxime?

Cefuroxime is a prescription antibiotic that belongs to the cephalosporin class of drugs — specifically, it's a second-generation cephalosporin. It was originally sold under the brand name Ceftin (oral form) and Zinacef (injectable form), both made by GlaxoSmithKline. The brand-name oral product has been discontinued, but Cefuroxime is widely available as a generic medication from multiple manufacturers.

Key facts at a glance:

• Generic name: Cefuroxime Axetil (oral), Cefuroxime Sodium (injection)
• Brand names: Ceftin (discontinued), Zinacef
• Drug class: Second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
• Controlled substance: No — Cefuroxime is not a controlled substance
• Available forms: 250 mg and 500 mg tablets, oral suspension (125 mg/5 mL and 250 mg/5 mL), and injectable powder (750 mg and 1.5 g vials)

Cefuroxime works by attacking the cell walls of bacteria, causing them to break apart and die. It's effective against a broad range of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, and it's resistant to many bacterial enzymes (beta-lactamases) that can inactivate other antibiotics.

What Is Cefuroxime Used For?

Cefuroxime is FDA-approved to treat the following bacterial infections:

• Acute bacterial sinusitis — infection of the sinuses
• Acute bacterial otitis media — middle ear infections (especially common in children)
• Pharyngitis and tonsillitis — strep throat
• Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections
• Uncomplicated gonorrhea (urethral and endocervical)
• Early Lyme disease (erythema migrans) — Cefuroxime is one of the recommended treatments for early Lyme disease
• Impetigo

Doctors also sometimes prescribe Cefuroxime off-label for community-acquired pneumonia, surgical prophylaxis, and dental infections.

Important: Cefuroxime only works against bacterial infections. It will not help with viral infections like the common cold or flu.

How Is Cefuroxime Taken?

The dosage and duration depend on what infection you're treating. Here are the standard guidelines:

Typical Adult Doses

• Most infections: 250-500 mg by mouth every 12 hours for 5-10 days
• Early Lyme disease: 500 mg every 12 hours for 20 days
• Uncomplicated gonorrhea: Single 1,000 mg (1 g) dose
• Injection (hospital): 750 mg to 1.5 g IV or IM every 8 hours

How to Take It Correctly

• Tablets: May be taken with or without food. Swallow tablets whole — do not crush, break, or chew them.
• Oral suspension (liquid): Must be taken with food to ensure proper absorption. Shake well before each use.
• Complete the full course: Even if you feel better after a few days, take every dose as prescribed. Stopping early can allow bacteria to survive and become resistant.

Your doctor will determine the right dose and duration for your specific infection. Follow their instructions exactly.

Who Should Not Take Cefuroxime?

Cefuroxime is not appropriate for everyone. You should not take it if you have:

• A known severe allergy (anaphylaxis) to Cefuroxime, other cephalosporins, or any ingredient in the formulation
• A history of severe allergic reaction to Penicillin — there's a small (~1-2%) cross-reactivity risk between penicillins and cephalosporins

Tell your doctor before starting Cefuroxime if you:

• Have kidney problems — dose adjustment is needed if your creatinine clearance is below 30 mL/min
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (Category B — generally considered safe, but discuss with your doctor)
• Are breastfeeding — small amounts pass into breast milk
• Are taking blood thinners like Warfarin
• Have a history of gastrointestinal disease, especially colitis

For a full list of drug interactions, see our guide on Cefuroxime drug interactions.

How Much Does Cefuroxime Cost?

Since Cefuroxime is available as a generic, it's more affordable than many brand-name antibiotics. Here's what you can expect to pay:

• Without insurance: $50-$171 for a typical course (14 tablets of 500 mg)
• With a discount coupon: $11-$30 at most pharmacies (using GoodRx, SingleCare, or similar services)
• With insurance: Widely covered as a Tier 1 or Tier 2 generic. Most plans charge a low copay — often $0-$15. Generally does not require prior authorization.

There is no manufacturer savings program since the brand-name Ceftin has been discontinued and Cefuroxime is generic-only. However, discount cards can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost. Check our complete guide to saving money on Cefuroxime for all your options.

For patients experiencing financial hardship, programs like NeedyMeds and RxAssist can help connect you with state pharmaceutical assistance programs and other resources.

Final Thoughts

Cefuroxime is a well-established, widely prescribed antibiotic that's been treating bacterial infections effectively for decades. It's available as an affordable generic, covered by most insurance plans, and can be prescribed by a wide range of doctors — from your primary care provider to an urgent care clinic.

Whether you're dealing with a sinus infection, UTI, strep throat, or Lyme disease, Cefuroxime is a solid treatment option that most patients tolerate well. For more details, explore our guides on side effects to watch for, how Cefuroxime works, and how to find a prescriber near you.

Ready to fill your prescription? Find Cefuroxime in stock near you with Medfinder.