Evaluation of UV-induced superoxide radical generation potential of some common antibiotics

Photosensitization reaction of drugs leading to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) cause tissue injury causing damage to various cellular macromolecules. The aim of this study was to determine the superoxide anion (O2-) generation potential of commonly used antibiotics so that due precaution could be exercised to minimize their photosensitizing action and oxidative stress potential. The selected antibiotics were examined for their ability to produce (O2-) under sunlight and artificial UVA (320-400 nm) and UVB (290-320 nm). Lincomycin, cephalothin and erythromycin generated significant amount of O2- under various irradiation conditions. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), an enzymatic quencher of O2- inhibited O2- production in all drugs tested. The results suggest that due precaution are necessary to avoid ultraviolet radiation (UVR) after the intake of photoreactive drugs, especially in tropical and sub tropical countries.