Cefuroxime axetil is a orally active prodrug formulation of cefuroxime, which upon absorption undergoes immediate deesterification to free cefuroxime. Cefuroxime axetil offers an in vitro antibacterial spectrum against many gram-positive and some gram-negative organisms. Its beta-lactamase stability makes it useful in treating a variety of infections caused by beta-lactamase-producing strains of Haemophilus influenzae, Branhamella catarrhalis, and Staphylococcus aureus. Cefuroxime axetil has good activity against the Enterobacteriaceae and moderate activity against non-Bacteroides fragilis anaerobes. Clinical studies suggest it is at least as effective as ampicillin, amoxicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, penicillin V, or cefaclor in the treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infections, acute otitis media, upper respiratory infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and uncomplicated gonorrhea.