Rufloxacin

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Rufloxacin

Rufloxacin is a quinolone antibiotic, specifically a fluoroquinolone, used in the treatment of bacterial infections. It is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is active against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Pharmacology

Rufloxacin 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 bacteria, effectively treating the infection. Rufloxacin is a third-generation fluoroquinolone, and like other drugs in this class, it has a wide range of activity against many types of bacteria.

Clinical Use

Rufloxacin is used to treat a variety of infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and sexually transmitted infections. It is also used in the treatment of gastroenteritis, a condition that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually as a result of bacterial infection.

Side Effects

Like all medications, Rufloxacin can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as tendon rupture, photosensitivity, and QT prolongation, a condition that can lead to serious heart rhythm disorders.

Resistance

Bacterial resistance to Rufloxacin and other fluoroquinolones has been reported. Resistance occurs when bacteria change in a way that reduces the effectiveness of drugs designed to cure or prevent infections. The bacteria survive and continue to multiply, causing more harm. This is a major concern in the medical community and research is ongoing to find ways to combat this issue.

See Also

• Quinolone
• Fluoroquinolone
• Bacterial DNA gyrase
• Topoisomerase IV
• Bacterial resistance

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