Cefuroxime is available in the United States under its original brand names, primarily Ceftin for oral use and Zinacef for injectable formulations, as well as a wide array of generic versions from various pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Innovator Brand Names
Historically, cefuroxime was introduced by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) under the following proprietary brand names:
- Ceftin: This is the brand name for oral formulations of cefuroxime axetil, available in tablet and oral suspension forms. It is commonly prescribed for a range of bacterial infections.
- Zinacef: This brand name is associated with injectable forms of cefuroxime sodium, typically used in hospital settings for more severe infections or when oral administration is not feasible.
Generic Cefuroxime Availability
Following the expiration of patents for the innovator brands, numerous generic pharmaceutical companies have received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to manufacture and market their own versions of cefuroxime. These generic products contain the same active ingredient and are bioequivalent to the brand-name drugs, offering a more affordable treatment option.
Several manufacturers supply generic cefuroxime tablets in the US, including but not limited to:
| Manufacturer | Dosage Form | Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Sandoz | Tablet | 250 mg |
| Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals | Tablet | 500 mg |
| Apotex | Tablet | 500 mg |
| STADA Pharmaceuticals | Tablet | 500 mg |
These generic versions are widely dispensed by pharmacies across the country and are a common alternative to the brand-name prescriptions. Availability may vary by pharmacy and distributor.
Forms and Strengths
Cefuroxime is commonly available in the following forms and strengths in the US:
- Oral Tablets: Typically found in strengths such as 250 mg and 500 mg.
- Oral Suspension: Available for pediatric use or for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets.
- Injectable (for IV or IM use): Supplied in various strengths for intravenous or intramuscular administration, primarily used in clinical settings.
The availability of both innovator brands and a robust generic market ensures that cefuroxime remains a widely accessible antibiotic for treating susceptible bacterial infections.
