Iceca (Cefuroxime)

Cefuroxime is a broad‑spectrum cephalosporin used in the intraocular setting to reduce infection risk after surgery.

• Postoperative endophthalmitis: prevention of bacterial infection following cataract or other intraocular procedures.

• Cefuroxime inhibits bacterial cell‑wall synthesis by binding to penicillin‑binding proteins, disrupting the cross‑linking of peptidoglycan strands. This leads to weakened cell walls and bacterial lysis, particularly against Gram‑positive and some Gram‑negative organisms commonly implicated in ocular infections.

Cefuroxime administered intracamerally may be associated with ocular and systemic reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Mild ocular irritation: transient discomfort at the injection site.
• Conjunctival hyperemia: temporary redness of the eye.
• Mild anterior chamber inflammation: low‑grade cellular reaction.
• Temporary visual blur: short‑term decrease in visual acuity.
• Mild headache: occasional post‑procedure headache.
• Nausea: occasional feeling of nausea after injection.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction: anaphylaxis requiring emergency care.
• Endophthalmitis despite prophylaxis: rare breakthrough infection.
• Persistent intraocular inflammation: prolonged uveitis.
• Retinal toxicity: rare vision‑threatening retinal damage.
• Systemic hypersensitivity: rash, fever, or hypotension.
• Acute renal impairment: rare in susceptible patients.

Cefuroxime should be used with attention to patient history and handling requirements.

• Allergy assessment: confirm no known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or beta‑lactams.
• Renal function: evaluate in patients with impaired kidney function, adjust if necessary.
• Pregnancy and lactation: use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk.
• Ocular surgery protocol: follow aseptic technique and recommended dosing guidelines.
• Monitoring: observe for signs of intraocular inflammation or allergic reaction after administration.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Cefuroxime may interact with other agents that affect renal clearance or hypersensitivity risk.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Aminoglycosides: increased risk of nephrotoxicity when combined.
• Loop diuretics: may potentiate renal impairment.
• Other beta‑lactam antibiotics: heightened risk of cross‑reactive allergic reactions.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• NSAIDs: monitor renal function when used concurrently.
• Anticoagulants: observe for altered bleeding risk due to potential platelet effects.
• Probenecid: may increase cefuroxime plasma levels, requiring dose review.