Zinnat

Overview

What is Zinnat?   

Zinnat is an antibiotic that belongs to the class of medications known as cephalosporins (second generation). Its primary ingredient is cefuroxime axetil. This drug works by fighting bacteria in your body and is commonly prescribed to treat various bacterial infections. 

Global Name

• Generic name: Cefuroxime axetil 
• Brand names: Zinnat, Ceftin, and Zinacef. 

Usage

What is Zinnat used for? 

Zinnat is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including: 

• Respiratory tract infections (such as bronchitis and pneumonia) 
• Urinary tract infections 
• Skin and soft tissue infections 
• Sinusitis 
• Lyme disease 
• Otitis media (middle ear infections) 

How do you use Zinnat? 

Availability:

Zinnat is available in tablet oral suspension form and injectable solution. 

Dosage information:

• Adults: 250 mg to 500 mg twice daily, depending on the severity of the infection. 
• Children: Dose is based on body weight, typically 10-15 mg/kg twice daily. 
• Elderlies: No adjustment needed unless there is significant renal impairment. 

Are the following suitable to take the drug: Children, adults, elderlies? 

• Children: Yes, with adjusted dosages based on weight. 
• Adults: Yes. 
• Elderlies: Yes, with caution in cases of renal impairment. 

• Children: Suitable with adjusted dosage. 
• Adults: Suitable unless contraindicated. 
• Elderlies: Suitable, watch for renal function. 
• Pregnancy: Generally considered safe but use only if clearly needed. 
• Lactation: Cefuroxime passes into breast milk, consult a doctor before use. 

Warnings and Precautions:

• Take Zinnat with food to enhance absorption and reduce stomach upset. 
• Complete the full prescribed course, even if symptoms improve earlier. 
• To prevent the development of drug-resistant bacteria, it is advised to always be guided by culture and susceptibility studies whenever feasible. 

Drug and Food/Beverage Interactions: 

• May interact with antacids or proton pump inhibitors, reducing its effectiveness. 
• Not to be used by patients with a known allergy to cephalosporin antibiotics. 

Side Effects

Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Severe allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention.

Pharmacist Tips

Storage information: 

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. 

Handling instructions: 

For oral suspension, shake the bottle well before each use and use the suspension within 10 days after mixing. 

Availability

Where is Zinnat available in Hong Kong?

Zinnat is a prescription medication that can be prescribed by healthcare providers.

FAQs

Can I stop taking Zinnat once I feel better? 

No, completing the full course as prescribed is essential to prevent the development of drug-resistant bacteria. 

Does Zinnat treat viral infections like the flu or common cold? 

No, Zinnat is an antibiotic and only effective against bacterial infections. 

What should I do if I miss a dose of Zinnat? 

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it's near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. 

Can Zinnat be taken with milk? 

Yes, Zinnat can be taken with or without milk. However, do not mix it with calcium-fortified juices as they could affect absorption.