Fluoroquinolones Antibiotics - Active Fighters for Your Health

In 1962, when the first strong drugs of this class appeared, no one predicted such success for them. They were invented as a treatment for urinary tract infections, but later they became the most popular antibiotics. In medical practice, this medicinal group began to be actively used only in the 80s of the XX century. And today antibiotics fluoroquinolones are simply irreplaceable in the treatment of respiratory diseases. In Russia, the global classification of these antibiotics by generation is popular. But, unfortunately, this division of drugs does not allow us to identify their chemical composition and spectrum of action. Therefore, most often they say about fluoroquinolones (antibiotics), distinguishing 2 groups - old and new.

Drug classification

The drugs of the old group include Ofloxacin, Enoxacin, Ciprofloxacin and others. New antibiotics are Sparfloxacin, Clinafloxacin, and Moxifloxacin. However, some of the developed drugs are no longer available, as scientists have discovered serious side effects when using them.

Antibiotic use

This group of drugs has traditionally been used for diseases of the urinary system, intestinal infections and for diseases that are sexually transmitted. Unfortunately, little fluoroquinolones are used to treat respiratory diseases, although they can actively affect certain types of pathogens.

Action of drugs

Antibiotics fluoroquinolones are perfectly absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract and are maximally concentrated in liquid tissues 3 hours after their use. If you eat food at the same time, active absorption will slow slightly, but the effect will be as active. The mechanism of action of drugs is the inhibition of DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV microbes, therefore, there is no cross-resistance with other antimicrobial agents. These antibiotics are widely used in gynecology (diseases of the female reproductive system), in particular with inflammation of the pelvic organs, which arise due to the active activity of microorganisms that penetrate the upper genital tract. It is recommended to take quinolones on an empty stomach, although use after meals is also acceptable.

Side effects

Antibiotics fluoroquinolones are well tolerated when taken orally and with intravenous injections. Adverse reactions rarely occur, but if they occur, they usually affect the activity of the digestive tract and the functioning of the nervous system. Nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, cramps, and nervousness may occur. In general, this group of antibiotics is characterized by excellent pharmacokinetic parameters.

The main stages of the action of fluoroquinolones

1. Penetration through the membrane into the cell.
2. Inhibition of the DNA gyrase enzyme.
3. DNA biosynthesis.
4. Destruction of the cell division algorithm .
5. Change in cell structure.
6. Cell death.

This group of antibiotics is widely used in medicine, and when used correctly, it can provide effective support to human health.