Fluoroquinolones

Fluoroquinolones are a class of antibiotics that are used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. They are effective against a wide range of bacteria, including both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Mechanism of Action

Fluoroquinolones work by inhibiting the enzyme DNA gyrase or topoisomerase IV, which are essential for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination.

Common Fluoroquinolones

• Ciprofloxacin
• Levofloxacin
• Moxifloxacin
• Norfloxacin
• Ofloxacin

Indications

Fluoroquinolones are commonly used to treat:

• Urinary tract infections
• Respiratory tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Joint and bone infections
• Gastrointestinal infections

Adverse Effects

Common side effects of fluoroquinolones include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Photosensitivity
• Tendon rupture (rare but serious)

Drug Interactions

Fluoroquinolones may interact with certain medications, such as:

• Antacids
• Corticosteroids
• Warfarin
• Theophylline

Precautions

Patients should be cautioned about the risk of tendon rupture, especially in older adults and those taking corticosteroids. Fluoroquinolones should be used with caution in patients with a history of seizures or certain neurological disorders.

Study Guide

Use the following study guide to review the key points about fluoroquinolones:

1. Define the mechanism of action of fluoroquinolones.
2. List three common fluoroquinolones.
3. Name three indications for using fluoroquinolones.
4. Identify three common adverse effects of fluoroquinolones.
5. Describe two drug interactions involving fluoroquinolones.
6. Discuss precautions that should be taken when prescribing fluoroquinolones.

Understanding the mechanism of action, indications, adverse effects, drug interactions, and precautions of fluoroquinolones is essential for proper clinical use and patient safety.