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Updated: Jul 8, 2026

Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
Safety of fluoroquinolones: An update
1Division of Medicine, McMaster University, Henderson Site, Hamilton, Ontario.
Abstract:
The fluoroquinolone class of antimicrobials has been in clinical use for over 13 years. During that period, some representatives of the class have been extensively prescribed, such as ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin, while others have seen minimal use and have been restricted or withdrawn, namely, trovafloxacin and grepafloxacin. Manipulation of the fluoroquinolone structure by substituting a range of moieties around the core has yielded enhanced antibacterial activity, but in some cases this has come at a price. Specific substitutions are discussed in relation to particular recognized adverse events. In the present paper, newly introduced fluoroquinolones, such as moxifloxacin and gatifloxacin, are examined in terms of anticipated class effects and recent clinical experience. These antimicrobials are associated with reactions such as diarrhea, nausea, headache and other typical antimicrobial phenomena at rates less than 5%. New fluoroquinolone agents should be examined carefully in light of structural findings until adequate clinical data are amassed.
Insights
Fluoroquinolone antimicrobials show varied clinical use and side effects. Newer agents like moxifloxacin have fewer adverse events, but require careful evaluation as more data becomes available.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The fluoroquinolone class of antimicrobials has been clinically available for over 13 years.
- Extensive use of ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin contrasts with limited use or withdrawal of trovafloxacin and grepafloxacin.
- Structural modifications enhance antibacterial activity but can lead to adverse events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine newly introduced fluoroquinolones, moxifloxacin and gatifloxacin.
- To assess anticipated class effects and review recent clinical experience with these agents.
Main Methods:
- Review of structural modifications and their relation to adverse events.
- Analysis of clinical data for moxifloxacin and gatifloxacin.
Main Results:
- Newer fluoroquinolones are associated with common antimicrobial reactions like diarrhea, nausea, and headache at rates below 5%.
- Specific structural substitutions are linked to particular adverse events.
Conclusions:
- New fluoroquinolone agents require careful structural assessment.
- Thorough clinical data collection is essential for evaluating the safety and efficacy of new fluoroquinolones.
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