Common Use

Ceftin is a cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as sinus, skin, lung, urinary tract, ear, and throat infections. It may also be prescribed for Lyme disease and gonorrhea. Ceftin works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth.

Dosage and Direction

The usual dosage for adults ranges from 250mg to 500mg twice daily. For children, the typical dosage is 10mg to 15mg per kg of body weight twice daily. Taking Ceftin with food can enhance absorption into the bloodstream. Note that Ceftin is not effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu.

This information is for review only. Always consult your doctor before using Ceftin to ensure the best results.

Precautions

Ceftin may interfere with certain urine glucose tests. Inform your doctor if you use these tests. Avoid sexual contact while taking this medication, as your partner may also need treatment. If you experience diarrhea, avoid over-the-counter treatments and consult your doctor if it persists for more than 2 days or is severe and watery.

Contraindications

Ceftin is contraindicated for patients with known allergies to cephalosporin antibiotics, penicillins, or those with renal failure. It should also be avoided during lactation.

Possible Side Effects

Serious side effects may include allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Other severe side effects include:

• Watery or bloody diarrhea;
• Fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
• Chest pain, fast or pounding heartbeats;
• Unusual bleeding;
• Blood in urine;
• Seizures;
• Pale or yellowed skin, dark urine, fever, confusion, or weakness;
• Jaundice;
• Severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash;
• Skin rash, bruising, tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness;
• Increased thirst, appetite loss, swelling, weight gain, shortness of breath;
• Painful or difficult urination, reduced urination.

Less serious side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, mild diarrhea, gas, upset stomach;
• Cough, stuffy nose;
• Stiff or tight muscles, muscle pain;
• Joint pain or swelling;
• Headache, drowsiness;
• Restlessness, irritability, or hyperactivity;
• White patches or sores in the mouth or on the lips;
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth;
• Diaper rash in infants;
• Mild itching or skin rash;
• Vaginal itching or discharge.

If you experience any of these side effects, stop using Ceftin and contact your doctor immediately.

Drug Interactions

Ceftin may interact with the following medications:

• Probenecid (Benemid);
• Blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin);
• Medications that reduce stomach acid, such as antacids, cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), omeprazole (Prilosec), or ranitidine (Zantac);
• Diuretics like bumetanide (Bumex), furosemide (Lasix), indapamide (Lozol), hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, HydroDiuril, Hyzaar, Lopressor, Vasoretic, Zestoretic), metolazone (Mykrox, Zarxolyn), spironolactone (Aldactazide, Aldactone), or torsemide (Demadex).

Drug interactions may not always require stopping one of the medications. Consult your doctor to manage these interactions effectively.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take double or extra doses. Resume your regular dosing schedule the next day.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include seizures, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

Storage

Store Ceftin at room temperature between 59-77 degrees F (15-25 degrees C), away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of Ceftin and does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your needs. We disclaim any liability for the reliability of this information or any consequences of its use.