cting data with other cephalosporins have been noted.
Tobramycin: Cefuroxime's product label states that cephalosporins may potentiate the adverse renal effects of nephrotoxic agents, such as aminoglycosides and loop diuretics. Carefully monitor renal function, especially during prolonged therapy or use of high aminoglycoside doses. The majority of reported cases involve the combination of aminoglycosides and cephalothin or cephaloridine, which are associated with dose-related nephrotoxicity as singular agents. Limited but conflicting data with other cephalosporins have been noted.
Torsemide: Cefuroxime's product label states that cephalosporins may potentiate the adverse renal effects of nephrotoxic agents, such as aminoglycosides and loop diuretics. Carefully monitor renal function, especially during prolonged therapy or use of high aminoglycoside doses. The majority of reported cases involve the combination of aminoglycosides and cephalothin or cephaloridine, which are associated with dose-related nephrotoxicity as singular agents. Limited but conflicting data with other cephalosporins have been noted.
Warfarin: The concomitant use of warfarin with many classes of antibiotics, including cephalosporins, may increase the INR thereby potentiating the risk for bleeding. Inhibition of vitamin K synthesis due to alterations in the intestinal flora may be a mechanism; however, concurrent infection is also a potential risk factor for elevated INR. Additionally, certain cephalosporins (cefotetan, cefoperazone, cefamandole) are associated with prolongation of the prothrombin time due to the methylthiotetrazole (MTT) side chain at the R2 position, which disturbs the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors in the liver. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of bleeding. Additionally, increased monitoring of the INR, especially during initiation and upon discontinuation of the antibiotic, may be necessary.
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION
Pregnancy
Cefuroxime is classified as FDA pregnancy risk category B. Animal data show that there are no teratogenic effects of cefuroxime. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, cefuroxime should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Cefuroxime is excreted in human breast milk in small quantities; according to the manufacturer, caution should be exercised with use during breast-feeding. Rare potential complications in the nursing infant include alterations of gut flora that might result in diarrhea or related complications (e.g., dehydration). Because the risk of serious reactions is relatively rare, the use of many cephalosporins is considered compatible with breast feeding. Although the use of cefuroxime during breast-feeding has not been eva luated by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), other cephalosporins, such as cefazolin, cefprozil, and cefadroxil, are generally considered compatible for use for lactating women by the AAP and other experts.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Cefuroxime, a beta-lactam antibiotic similar to penicillins, inhibits the third and final stage of bacterial cell wall synthesis by preferentially binding to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) that are located inside the bacterial cell wall. Penicillin-binding proteins are responsible for several steps in the synthesis of the cell wall and are found in |
