Urology Medications: Prices and Treatment Insights

Inquiry about Imported Western Medicines

Hello, I have a urinary tract condition and am currently in mainland China.
Recently, I visited a doctor in Macau who prescribed two medications: 1.
Glaxo Wellcome Zinnat (cefuroxime axetil) 500mg 2.
Pfizer Zithromax (azithromycin) 250mg.
I find the prices of these medications to be very expensive.
Could you please answer the following questions: 1.
What is the reasonable price for these two medications? 2.
What types of urinary conditions are treated with these medications? 3.
I have been diagnosed with mild prostatitis, and the treatment duration is expected to be 2-3 months; is this normal? Your prompt response would be very helpful.
Thank you, Otto.

Otto Chin, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/11/14

Dr. Chen Xiuyi reply Urology

Hello! Cefuroxime axetil is a cephalosporin antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis, while azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis.
Both are antibiotics that can treat urinary tract infections.
Our hospital does not have these two antibiotics, so I am unsure about their prices.

Regarding the treatment of prostatitis, if it is bacterial prostatitis, the choice of antibiotic should generally be based on the results of bacterial cultures, and the treatment course may sometimes need to last 2-3 months.
For non-bacterial prostatitis, anti-inflammatory medications and nerve blockers are typically used for treatment, and the condition may sometimes recur.
The effectiveness of treatment varies from person to person.

Wishing you and your family peace and happiness.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Hsiu-Yi Chen,
Director of Urology, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2002/11/14

More Info

Hello Otto,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your urological condition and the medications prescribed to you. I understand that you are concerned about the prices of the medications and their effectiveness in treating your condition. Let’s break down your questions one by one.

1. Prices of Medications: The prices of medications like Glaxo Wellcome Zinnat (cefuroxime axetil) and Pfizer Zithromax (azithromycin) can vary significantly depending on the country, pharmacy, and whether you are purchasing them with insurance or out-of-pocket. In general, cefuroxime axetil can range from $30 to $60 for a course of treatment, while azithromycin is typically less expensive, ranging from $10 to $30 for a similar course. However, these prices can fluctuate based on local market conditions and pharmacy pricing strategies. It’s advisable to check with local pharmacies or online platforms for the most accurate pricing in your area.

2. Indications for Use: Both of these medications are antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, including those affecting the urinary tract. Cefuroxime axetil is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that is effective against a variety of bacteria, making it suitable for treating conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and prostatitis. Azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, is often used for respiratory infections but can also be effective against certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and some types of bacterial infections in the urinary tract. If your doctor prescribed these medications, it is likely because they suspected a bacterial infection contributing to your urological symptoms.

3. Treatment Duration for Prostatitis: Regarding your diagnosis of mild prostatitis, a treatment duration of 2 to 3 months can be considered normal, especially if it is bacterial prostatitis. The treatment often involves prolonged antibiotic therapy to ensure that the infection is fully eradicated. In cases of non-bacterial prostatitis, treatment may focus more on symptom management rather than prolonged antibiotic use. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.

In addition to the medications prescribed, it’s crucial to maintain good hydration, practice safe sex, and follow any lifestyle recommendations provided by your healthcare provider. If you experience any side effects from the medications or if your symptoms do not improve, be sure to communicate this with your doctor.

Lastly, if you have concerns about the cost of medications, you might want to discuss with your healthcare provider about alternative treatments or generic versions of the prescribed drugs, which can often be more affordable.

I hope this information helps clarify your concerns regarding your treatment. Please take care and follow up with your healthcare provider for any further questions or issues you may encounter.

Best wishes for your health,
Doctor Q&A Teams

Similar Q&A

Cost of Erectile Dysfunction Medications: What to Expect in Urology Visits

I have been experiencing some issues with erections recently and am considering a visit to a urologist. I would like to ask if the medications for treating erectile dysfunction typically require a significant out-of-pocket expense. How likely is it that I will need to pay for the...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, some medications, such as Viagra and Cialis, are not covered by health insurance and therefore need to be paid out of pocket. For other medications, if there is a price listed under health insurance, they can usually be covered. A more specific situation is that certain me...

Understanding Prostatitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Hello, Director Xu! Last month, I felt some soreness and discomfort from my left scrotum to my left thigh. After undergoing an ultrasound at a private clinic, I was diagnosed with mild prostatic enlargement and right-sided scrotal fluid accumulation. The doctor then told me I had...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, I live in Macau, and I am not familiar with the medical costs here, as in Taiwan, 100% of medical expenses are covered by the National Health Insurance Administration, making it quite affordable. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is rarely seen in the general population and is often ...

Struggling with Nighttime Urgency: Alternatives to Costly Medications

Hello, I have given birth to two children, and recently I've been experiencing the urge to urinate at night. However, when I sit on the toilet, I can't seem to urinate. I visited a doctor who prescribed me an expensive medication costing over a thousand NT dollars per d...

Dr. Dong Yuhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Ami: Regarding the issue of having urine at night but being unable to urinate, I recommend seeking help from a urologist or a gynecologist with a specialization in female urology. It is important to identify the underlying cause of the symptoms for appropriate treatment. T...

Understanding Early Ejaculation and Treatment Options: A Guide to Medications

Hello, Doctor Hsu. I have a condition of premature ejaculation as well as incomplete erection. I consulted a doctor who prescribed me TOFRANIL 25MG tablets. Could you please explain the function of this medication and its potential side effects? Additionally, I have learned that ...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Concerned Individual: Hello everyone, in terms of sexual performance, it is rare for every encounter to be perfect; there will be failures from time to time. This should not cause too much anxiety, as long as your sexual partner is accepting, that should suffice. Additionally, re...