Piromidic acid

Piromidic acid is a synthetic antibacterial agent that belongs to the quinolone class of antibiotics. It is primarily used in the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by susceptible bacteria.

Chemistry

Piromidic acid is a derivative of 4-quinolone, a type of chemical compound that is often used in the development of antibacterial agents. It has a molecular formula of C12H10N2O3 and a molecular weight of 230.22 g/mol. The compound is slightly soluble in water and freely soluble in ethanol and chloroform.

Mechanism of Action

The antibacterial action of piromidic acid is based on its ability to inhibit the DNA gyrase enzyme, which is essential for bacterial DNA replication. By blocking this enzyme, piromidic acid prevents the bacteria from replicating and repairing their DNA, leading to their death.

Clinical Use

Piromidic acid is primarily used in the treatment of urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, and Proteus species. It is usually administered orally in the form of tablets.

Side Effects

Like other quinolone antibiotics, piromidic acid can cause a range of side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can also cause serious side effects such as photosensitivity, tendon rupture, and central nervous system effects.

Precautions

Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to quinolones should avoid using piromidic acid. It should also be used with caution in patients with a history of seizures or other central nervous system disorders, as it may increase the risk of seizures.

See Also

• Quinolone
• Urinary tract infection
• DNA gyrase