kinolonijohdannaiset

Kinolonijohdannaiset is a Finnish term referring to quinolone derivatives. Quinolones are a class of synthetic antibacterial agents that are widely used in medicine. They function by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. This inhibition leads to the breakage of bacterial DNA and ultimately cell death.

The first quinolone, nalidixic acid, was discovered in the 1960s, and it had a narrow spectrum of activity. Subsequent research led to the development of fluoroquinolones, which are more potent and have a broader spectrum of activity, including against Gram-positive bacteria. Common fluoroquinolones include ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and moxifloxacin. These drugs are effective against a range of bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, and skin infections.

Despite their efficacy, the use of quinolonijohdannaiset is associated with potential side effects. These can include gastrointestinal disturbances, central nervous system effects like dizziness and headaches, and in rare cases, tendon rupture, particularly in older adults and those taking corticosteroids. Resistance to quinolones can also develop, which is a growing concern in public health. Therefore, these antibiotics are typically reserved for specific infections where their benefits outweigh the risks, and their use should be guided by susceptibility testing.