Spiroketerna

Spiroketerna are a class of antibiotics that belong to the fluoroquinolone family. They are synthetic compounds that inhibit the activity of bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication, transcription, and repair. Spiroketerna are effective against a wide range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, including many that are resistant to other antibiotics.

The most well-known spiroketerna is levofloxacin, which was the first fluoroquinolone to be developed. Other examples include moxifloxacin and gatifloxacin. These antibiotics are often used to treat respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and sexually transmitted infections.

Spiroketerna are typically administered orally, but some formulations are available for intravenous use. They are generally well-tolerated, but like all antibiotics, they can cause side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, tendonitis, and tendon rupture. There is also a risk of developing resistance to spiroketerna, which can occur through mutations in the bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes.

The use of spiroketerna is regulated by healthcare professionals due to their potential for adverse effects and the risk of antibiotic resistance. They are often used as a last resort when other antibiotics have failed, or when the infecting organism is known to be resistant to other classes of antibiotics. The development of new antibiotics and the responsible use of existing ones are crucial in combating the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.