Cefuroxime, a medication used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, can have a number of side effects, some of which can be quite serious and require medical attention. Despite the fact some can be serious, other cefuroxime side effects can be minor and usually disappear quickly or are simply an inconvenience. It is important, while on the medication, to monitor any side effects that may occur. In some cases, the side effects may be indicative of a more serious condition, such as a severe allergic reaction.
The most serious of the cefuroxime side effects include watery diarrhea, especially if it is bloody, or accompanied by chest pains, blood in urine, difficulty in breathing or swallowing and seizure. Those having any of these symptoms should contact a doctor as soon as possible. If a primary care doctor is not available, then seek advice or treatment from another medical professional, possibly by going to an emergency room. A doctor may also want the patient to discontinue use of the medicine immediately.
Other cefuroxime side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain. If these symptoms persist, they may also require the services of a doctor. In some cases, they may resolve themselves after a brief period of time, even if the patient has not discontinued use of the medication. For symptoms that become a major inconvenience, always consult a doctor. He or she may be able to either prescribe a different medication, or provide solutions that will lessen the severity of the symptoms.
Some cefuroxime side effects are indicative of a major allergic reaction, and only a doctor can tell for sure. If rashes develop on the body, that could be one indication of an allergic reaction, along with some of the side effects previously mentioned. The rash may be accompanied by hives or severe itching, but that may not happen in all individuals who are allergic to the medication. Continuing to take the medication could lead to a worsening of side effects. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a medical practitioner or pharmacist if unsure.
While this list provides some of the common cefuroxime side effects, it is not meant to be exhaustive. Medications can affect different people in different ways, so always be alert for anything unusual, especially when taking new medications, and when taking more than one medication at once. If anything seems out of the ordinary, or if you are experiencing unusual symptoms, it could either be the result of the infection, or of the medication being used to treat it.