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Comparative in vitro activity of quinolones
1Department of Clinical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg.
Summary
New quinolone antimicrobials show broad-spectrum activity, particularly against gram-negative bacteria. Ciprofloxacin demonstrates the highest in vitro effectiveness among the newer quinolones evaluated.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Quinolones represent a novel class of synthetic antimicrobial agents.
- These compounds are derived from nalidixic acid and possess a wide spectrum of activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the antimicrobial activity of newer quinolone agents.
- To compare the in vitro efficacy of various quinolones against different bacterial species.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies evaluating quinolone antimicrobial activity.
- In vitro susceptibility testing data analysis for various quinolones.
Main Results:
- Newer quinolones like ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, enoxacin, and pefloxacin are highly active against Enterobacteriaceae, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Haemophilus ducreyi.
- Activity is reduced against Pseudomonas sp. and Staphylococcus sp., with minimal in vitro activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae and Enterococci.
- Mycobacterium sp. show variable susceptibility, and obligate anaerobes are generally resistant.
- Ciprofloxacin exhibited the highest in vitro antimicrobial activity among the agents studied.
Conclusions:
- Newer quinolones are effective broad-spectrum antimicrobials, especially against Gram-negative pathogens.
- Ciprofloxacin stands out for its potent in vitro activity.
- The quinolone class offers valuable therapeutic options for bacterial infections.