Pharmacokinetics of quinolones in renal insufficiency

The pharmacokinetics of the new fluoroquinolone derivatives have been extensively studied in patients with various degrees of chronic renal insufficiency during the last few years. Their kinetic profiles depend on the elimination pathways and on the degree of metabolic transformation. Renal insufficiency does not significantly modify pefloxacin kinetics. For the other new quinolones, a decrease in glomerular filtration rate below 20-30 ml/min induces an increase in terminal half-life and a decrease in plasma and renal clearance, related to the degree of renal impairment. These drugs are poorly removed by haemodialysis. Dosage adjustments are required, particularly in severe renal failure and for the drugs almost exclusively excreted, in unchanged form, via the renal route.