An Overview of Fluoroquinolones

The fluoroquinolones are broad-spectrum bactericidal agents inhibiting DNA synthesis. They are active against gram positive and gram negative organisms like P. aeruginosa, Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, Staphylococci and a few of the Streptococci. They are useful in the treatment of pneumonia, urinary tract infections, bacterial diarrhea, and skin and soft tissue infections. The use of quinolones began with its first generation that consisted of nalidixic acid. From that time, a large number of newer fluoroquinolones having a variety of structures and a broader spectrum of activity have been developed forming the five generations. The more number of fluoroquinolones developed and its widespread usage is attributed to its high bioavailability and tissue penetration. Moreover, the development of resistance to the most commonly used antibiotics has led to the need for alternatives. The various derivatives of fluoroquinolone have varying levels of activity depending on the various groups attached at different positions. Generating a derivative with increased activity will help to reduce the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), thereby reducing the possibility of developing resistance to it. This paper gives an overview of fluoroquinolones, their mechanism of action, their uses, resistance development and their adverse effects.