How long after taking cefuroxime axetil capsules can you drink alcohol?

Alcohol should not be consumed until 7 to 10 days after stopping cefuroxime axetil capsules.

Cefuroxime axetil capsules belong to the second-generation cephalosporin antibiotics. Cefuroxime axetil is an ester derivative of cefuroxime; after oral administration, it is absorbed through the intestine and then hydrolyzed into active cefuroxime, which exerts antibacterial effects. Since the drug undergoes metabolism in the body, consuming alcohol before the drug is fully eliminated can interfere with alcohol metabolism, leading to acetaldehyde accumulation and triggering a disulfiram-like reaction. This may cause symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, or generalized skin flushing. In severe cases, it could lead to hypotension, shock, or even life-threatening complications. It usually takes about 7 to 10 days for the drug to be completely cleared from the body; therefore, alcohol consumption should be avoided both during treatment with cefuroxime axetil capsules and for at least 7 to 10 days after discontinuation.

In addition, it's important to avoid other food products containing alcohol during this period, such as drunken shrimp, drunken crab, and liquor-filled chocolates.