Cefuroxime Axetil: An oral Prodrug of Cefuroxime Sodium

Cefuroxime axetil is the oral prodrug formulation of the injectable antibiotic cefuroxime sodium. Cefuroxime is a second generation cephalosporin antibiotic with a broad spectrum activity and a poor absorption profile from gastrointestinal tract. It led to the synthesis of the 1-acetoxyethyl ester of cefuroxime (cefuroxime axetil). Bactericidal activity in vivo is resultant of its binding to essential target proteins, termed the penicillin-binding proteins. Cefuroxime axetil is generally well tolerated. Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, headaches, hypersensitivity reactions and pseudomembranous colitis have also been observed occasionally during cefuroxime axetil treatment. It is not the drug of choice for any infection, particularly those encountered in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. It is safe to use in pregnancy and has a low adverse effect profile.