Fleroxacin

Fleroxacin

Fleroxacin is a quinolone antibiotic that is part of the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics. It is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is active against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Fleroxacin was developed by Hoechst AG, now part of Sanofi, and is marketed under the brand name Megalone.

Mechanism of Action

Fleroxacin, like other fluoroquinolones, works by inhibiting the bacterial DNA gyrase or the topoisomerase IV enzyme, thereby inhibiting DNA replication and transcription. This leads to the death of the bacterial cells and the eventual elimination of the infection.

Clinical Use

Fleroxacin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. It is particularly effective against bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of fleroxacin are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as tendon rupture, photosensitivity, and central nervous system effects.

Resistance

Resistance to fleroxacin and other fluoroquinolones can develop with frequent use. This is usually due to mutations in the genes encoding for DNA gyrase or topoisomerase IV.

See Also

• Quinolone
• Fluoroquinolone
• Antibiotic resistance

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