Nalidixinsäure

Nalidixinsäure, also known as nalidixic acid, is a synthetic antibiotic belonging to the class of fluoroquinolones. It was developed in the 1960s and was one of the first quinolone antibiotics to be introduced for clinical use. Nalidixinsäure is effective against a wide range of Gram-negative bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus species. Its mechanism of action involves inhibition of DNA gyrase, an enzyme essential for DNA replication and transcription.

The antibiotic is typically administered orally or intravenously. It is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and has a relatively short half-life, allowing for frequent dosing. Nalidixinsäure is generally well-tolerated, but like other fluoroquinolones, it can cause side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, skin rashes, and, in rare cases, more serious adverse reactions like tendon rupture or peripheral neuropathy.

Due to the emergence of bacterial resistance, nalidixinsäure is no longer widely used in many countries. However, it remains an important historical and pharmacological reference in the development of modern antibiotics. Its study has contributed to the understanding of the mechanisms of action and resistance patterns of fluoroquinolones.