Product Information:

XETICAM 500mg Tablets contain Cefuroxime Axetil 500mg, a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It is the oral prodrug of cefuroxime, which works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death. This higher-strength formulation is used to treat moderate to severe bacterial infections in adults and adolescents when more potent therapy is required.

Cefuroxime axetil demonstrates enhanced activity against Gram-positive cocci (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae) and improved stability against beta-lactamases produced by common Gram-negative pathogens like Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis.

Uses of (XETICAM 500MG TABS):

1. Respiratory tract infections: Pneumonia, acute bronchitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis/tonsillitis
2. Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Cystitis, pyelonephritis (moderate severity)
3. Skin and soft tissue infections: Cellulitis, wound infections, abscesses
4. Lyme disease (early stage with erythema migrans)
5. Gonorrhea (uncomplicated urethral or cervical—single-dose regimen)

Key Benefits of (XETICAM 500MG TABS):

1. Higher dose for more severe or resistant community-acquired infections
2. Effective against beta-lactamase-producing strains
3. Oral convenience for outpatient management of serious infections
4. Generally well-tolerated with predictable pharmacokinetics

How To Use (XETICAM 500MG TABS):

1. Take with food to significantly enhance absorption (bioavailability increases by ~50%).
2. Swallow whole with water—do not crush or chew.
3. Complete the full prescribed course, even if symptoms improve early.
4. Typical adult dosage:
5. Respiratory/urinary/skin infections: 500mg twice daily for 5–10 days
6. Lyme disease: 500mg twice daily for 20 days
7. Uncomplicated gonorrhea: Single 1g dose (two 500mg tablets)

When Not to Use (XETICAM 500MG TABS):

Do not use if you have:

1. Hypersensitivity to cefuroxime, other cephalosporins, or penicillins (cross-reactivity possible)
2. History of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to beta-lactam antibiotics
3. Severe renal impairment (dose adjustment required)

⚠️ Note: Ineffective against viral infections (e.g., common cold, influenza).

Side Effects of (XETICAM 500MG TABS):

Common:

1. Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
2. Abdominal pain, headache
3. Rash, vaginal candidiasis

Less common:

1. Elevated liver enzymes
2. Dizziness, fatigue

Serious (rare):

1. Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD)—persistent watery diarrhea with fever and cramps
2. Severe hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
3. Hemolytic anemia or seizures (in overdose or renal failure)
4. Discontinue and seek medical help if severe diarrhea, breathing difficulty, or widespread rash occurs.

Dosage Adjustments:

1. Renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min): Reduce to 250mg once daily
2. Elderly: Adjust based on renal function
3. Children: Not typically dosed as 500mg tablets; use lower strengths or suspension

Who It’s For (XETICAM 500MG TABS):

Adults and adolescents with moderate to severe bacterial infections requiring high-dose oral cephalosporin therapy, especially when outpatient treatment is preferred over injectables.

Warnings & Precautions:

1. Use only for bacterial infections—not for viral illnesses
2. Prolonged use may lead to fungal or resistant bacterial overgrowth
3. Monitor for CDAD if diarrhea persists after treatment
4. Use caution in patients with history of colitis or renal impairment

Drug Interactions:

1. Probenecid: May increase cefuroxime levels
2. Oral contraceptives: Antibiotics may reduce efficacy—use backup contraception
3. Anticoagulants: Theoretical risk of increased bleeding (monitor INR)
4. Always inform your doctor about all medications.

Additional Information:

Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiration date. Available by prescription in Pakistan.