Uncontrolled trial of sparfloxacin in retreatment of pulmonary tuberculosis

The aim of the present report was to study the role of sparfloxacin in retreatment of pulmonary tuberculosis.

Sixteen patients with sputum-smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis were given sparfloxacin (200 mg daily), along with isoniazid and para-aminosalicylic acid plus additional drugs where indicated. They were followed up and assessed by sputum-smear microscopy and chest X-ray regularly for the entire duration of follow up, which ranged from 15 to 18 months.

Twelve patients completed treatment and achieved a satisfactory response in the form of persistent sputum negativity and radiologically quiescent disease. Two patients defaulted after 6 months and one patient discontinued medications because of severe gastrointestinal intolerance. One patient died before completion of the treatment as a result of the sequelae of the disease.

Sparfloxacin can be used as a companion drug along with other drugs in retreatment of pulmonary tuberculosis. The advantages of this drug are a high safety profile, low cost of treatment and easy availability, which are important determinants, especially in developing countries.