Flumequine

Flumequine is a synthetic fluoroquinolone antibiotic used primarily in veterinary medicine to treat bacterial infections. It was first introduced in the 1970s and is part of the quinolone family of antibiotics.

History[edit | edit source]

Flumequine was first synthesized in the 1970s as part of the second generation of quinolone antibiotics. It was developed as a broad-spectrum antibiotic to treat a variety of bacterial infections in animals.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Flumequine works by inhibiting the DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes, which are essential for bacterial DNA replication. By inhibiting these enzymes, flumequine prevents the bacteria from replicating and spreading, effectively treating the infection.

Veterinary Use[edit | edit source]

Flumequine is primarily used in veterinary medicine to treat bacterial infections in a variety of animals, including poultry, cattle, and fish. It is particularly effective against Gram-negative bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter.

Safety and Regulation[edit | edit source]

Due to concerns about the development of antibiotic resistance, the use of flumequine in animals that are consumed by humans is regulated in many countries. In the European Union, for example, flumequine is classified as a Category II substance, meaning it can only be used under certain conditions and with a veterinary prescription.