Product Description
Gatifloxacin 112811-59-3
AI Product Description
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Gatifloxacin is a fourth-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic widely recognized for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Chemically, it possesses the molecular formula C19H22FN3O4 and carries the CAS registry number 157680-32-3. Its chemical structure features a distinctive fluorine atom at the C-6 position and an 8-methoxy group at the C-8 position, modifications that significantly enhance its potency and bioavailability compared to earlier generations of quinolones. The compound acts by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, essential enzymes required for DNA replication, transcription, and repair, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death.
Originally developed primarily for ophthalmic use, Gatifloxacin gained prominence as a topical treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis due to its excellent penetration into ocular tissues and high efficacy against common pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. While it was also investigated for systemic administration in treating respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and skin infections, its oral formulation was voluntarily withdrawn from many markets, including the United States, due to concerns regarding significant dysglycemia, particularly hypoglycemia in elderly patients with diabetes. Despite this regulatory setback, the ophthalmic solution remains a standard of care in many countries for treating acute bacterial eye infections.
The drug is characterized by its high water solubility and favorable pharmacokinetic profile when applied topically, ensuring sustained therapeutic concentrations within the cornea and conjunctiva with minimal systemic absorption. It is typically available as a sterile ophthalmic solution, often formulated with benzalkonium chloride as a preservative. Clinicians value Gatifloxacin for its once-daily dosing regimen, which improves patient compliance. Although newer agents have emerged, Gatifloxacin continues to be a reliable option for managing superficial ocular infections, offering a balance of safety, efficacy, and ease of use in clinical practice.