Contents
Fluoroquinolones are broad-spectrum antibiotics. They are used to treat severe and complicated bacterial infections.
Action of fluoroquinolones
Fluoroquinolones have a bactericidal effect. They inhibit protein synthesis in the bacterial cell membrane and lead to the death of microbes.
Fluoroquinolones are bactericidal against strains of Gram-negative bacilli, Gram-negative cocci (for example, gonorrhea) and strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Fluoroquinolones also have a bactericidal effect against atypical pathogens causing pneumonia and urogenital infections, as well as against streptococci, staphylococci and mycobacteria.
Indications for the use of fluoroquinolones
Fluoroquinolones are used to treat severe and complicated bacterial infections. The use of these antibiotics is not recommended for mild and uncomplicated infections, as it may lead to drug resistance of bacterial strains.
Contraindications to the use of fluoroquinolones
The use of fluoroquinolones is contraindicated in patients allergic to this group of antibiotics.
Fluoroquinolones are also not administered to patients with renal insufficiency. The drug is contraindicated in children and pregnant women. In such cases, fluoroquinolones should only be given if there are no other treatment options.
How to use medicinal preparations with fluoroquinolones?
Medicinal preparations with fluoroquinolones should be used strictly according to the doctor’s instructions. Usually, therapy with these antibiotics is carried out in a hospital setting. The patient’s condition should be monitored on an ongoing basis.
Undesirable effects of preparations with fluoroquinolones
Fluoroquinolones have a number of side effects. Their use may lead to gastrointestinal complications, inflammation and rupture of the Achilles (heel) tendons, secondary infections, enteritis, diarrhea, disturbances in the functioning of the central nervous system, hypo- and hyperglycaemia, cardiac arrhythmias and even cardiac death. In addition, there are complications such as kidney damage, muscle fatigue, and fatal multi-organ damage.
Clinical trials have recently discovered a number of additional disturbing and potentially life-threatening side effects of fluoroquinolones. These preparations may, inter alia, damage the lining of the middle artery, causing the aortic aneurysm to rupture. They can also lead to complications that result in complete and irreversible loss of vision in one or both eyes.
Nevertheless, fluoroquinolones are still considered very effective and useful antibiotics in the treatment of severe bacterial infections.
Precautions for the use of fluoroquinolones and additional notes
The patient’s condition should be monitored during treatment with fluoroquinolones.
Fluoroquinolones should not be used after the expiry date stated on the package. The preparation should be stored at room temperature, in a tightly closed container, out of the sight and reach of children.