Cefuroxime and alcohol – is that compatible?

Definition

Cefuroxime is a drug which belongs to the group of 2nd generation cephalosporins. It belongs to the so-called beta-lactam antibiotics. Cefuroxime is used in the treatment of bacterial infections and fights bacteria by inhibiting cell wall formation during cell division.

Thus it is a very potent broad-spectrum antibiotic and is effective against many different pathogens. The drug can be administered either orally as a tablet or parenterally in an infusion solution. Cefuroxime is excreted in unchanged form via the kidneys.

Antibiotics and alcohol

Through the use of modern antibiotics, bacterial inflammation can provide relief from symptoms within a few days. In order to prevent the development of resistant bacterial strains and to eliminate all bacteria responsible for the inflammation, an antibiotic must usually be taken beyond the absence of symptoms. Especially during this period of time many people ask themselves if taking alcohol and antibiotics at the same time has negative effects on their body.

Many people think that it is generally not allowed to take antibiotics and alcohol at the same time. However, with a few exceptions, there is generally no ban. Cefuroxime is an antibiotic which belongs to the group of so-called second generation cephalosporins.

It is one of the most frequently prescribed so-called broad-spectrum antibiotics and is used particularly against infections of the respiratory tract and meningitis. In the case of an infection commonly known as sepsis, the drug helps to treat the disease. It is also widely used for bacterial skin inflammation.

Interactions that occur when cefuroxime is taken together with alcohol have not been described. From a medical point of view, it is not recommended to take alcohol, as this does not seem to make sense after a severe bacterial infection, but strong side effects caused by the simultaneous intake of cefuroxime are not to be feared. Nevertheless, it should be noted that not every antibiotic can be taken safely with alcohol. Some other antibiotics can cause considerable interactions and side effects when taken at the same time as alcohol. It is therefore always necessary to pay attention to all the medicines that are taken.

Side effects

The direct consequences of taking cefuroxime and alcohol at the same time are no different from taking only one of these substances at a time. Interactions which would, for example, increase the effect of alcohol on the body are not described and do not occur when cefuroxime and alcohol are taken simultaneously. Side effects such as dizziness and headaches as well as nausea and vomiting are common adverse effects of taking cefuroxime and cannot be associated with the simultaneous intake of alcohol. In addition, allergic reactions to cefuroxime can occur, which can be noticed by strong skin reactions (eczema) and are also caused solely by incompatibility with the medication and are not influenced by the intake of alcohol.