fluorooquinoloniantibioottien

Fluorooquinolone antibiotics, often abbreviated as fluoroquinolones, are a class of synthetic broad-spectrum antibacterial drugs. They work by inhibiting bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. This is achieved by targeting two essential enzymes: DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. Fluoroquinolones are effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Historically, the first fluoroquinolone, nalidixic acid, was developed in the 1960s, but it was not a true fluoroquinolone. The modern class emerged with the development of compounds like ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin. These drugs are used to treat various bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and certain gastrointestinal infections.

Despite their broad efficacy, fluoroquinolones are associated with a range of potential side effects. These can include gastrointestinal disturbances, central nervous system effects such as dizziness and confusion, and phototoxicity. More serious adverse events, though less common, can involve tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and cardiac arrhythmias. Due to these risks, their use is often reserved for situations where other antibiotic options are not suitable or have failed. Concerns about the development of antibiotic resistance have also led to more judicious prescribing practices for this class of drugs.