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Quantitation of GABAA receptor inhibition required for quinolone-induced convulsions in mice

Y Tsutomi1, K Matsubayashi, K Akahane

  • 1Exploratory Research Laboratories I. Daiichi Pharmaceutical Co., Tokyo, Japan.

Insights

Ciprofloxacin combined with biphenylacetic acid (BPAA) induced convulsions in mice by inhibiting gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptors. This combination requires approximately 30% GABAA receptor inhibition for seizure onset.

Area of Science:

  • Neuropharmacology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Quinolone antibiotics, like ciprofloxacin, can induce convulsions.
  • The mechanism underlying quinolone-induced seizures, particularly in combination with other drugs, requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To quantify the degree of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor inhibition necessary for ciprofloxacin-induced convulsions when co-administered with biphenylacetic acid (BPAA) in mice.
  • To compare the convulsant potential of ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin in combination with BPAA.

Main Methods:

  • Mice were administered oral BPAA followed by intravenous ciprofloxacin or ofloxacin.
  • Convulsions were monitored, and maximal brain concentrations of quinolones were measured.
  • In vitro binding assays quantified the inhibition of 3H-muscimol binding to GABAA receptor sites.

Main Results:

  • Ciprofloxacin (≥40 mg/kg) plus BPAA induced convulsions, while ofloxacin did not at tested doses.
  • Convulsions induced by ciprofloxacin and BPAA were associated with approximately 30% inhibition of GABAA receptor binding.
  • Estimated high doses of ofloxacin would be required to achieve similar GABAA receptor inhibition.

Conclusions:

  • Ciprofloxacin and BPAA interact to antagonize GABAA receptor binding, with at least 30% inhibition being critical for seizure induction in mice.
  • GABAA receptor inhibition plays a significant role in the occurrence of quinolone-induced convulsions.

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