Pefloxacin clinical pharmacokinetics

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Pefloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic with broad-spectrum activity.
• It demonstrates excellent penetration into cells and tissues, achieving high tissue-to-serum ratios.
• These properties suggest potential for treating intracellular bacterial infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pharmacokinetic properties of pefloxacin.
• To evaluate its tissue penetration and potential clinical implications.
• To identify factors affecting its metabolism and excretion.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of pharmacokinetic studies.
• Analysis of data on absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.
• Evaluation of tissue and body fluid concentrations.

Main Results:

• Pefloxacin is well absorbed orally with an elimination half-life of 6.2–12.4 hours.
• Pharmacokinetics change with repeated dosing and are altered in liver insufficiency and elderly patients.
• Renal impairment minimally affects pharmacokinetic parameters.
• High tissue concentrations, particularly in lung and kidney, are achieved, exceeding plasma levels.
• Interactions with hepatic and gastrointestinal drugs occur.

Conclusions:

• Pefloxacin's pharmacokinetic profile supports its use against intracellular pathogens.
• Dosage adjustments are crucial for patients with liver insufficiency and the elderly.
• Monitoring for drug interactions is recommended.
• Its favorable tissue distribution highlights its therapeutic potential in various infections.