Product Description
Ofloxacin 82419-36-1
AI Product Description
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Ofloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic widely utilized in clinical medicine to treat various bacterial infections. Its chemical identity is defined by the molecular formula C18H20FN3O4 and it is uniquely identified by the CAS registry number 82419-36-1. Structurally, Ofloxacin features a fluorine atom at the sixth position of its quinolone core, which significantly enhances its potency and ability to penetrate tissues compared to earlier generations of quinolones. This compound functions primarily by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, essential enzymes required for DNA replication, transcription, and repair. By disrupting these critical processes, Ofloxacin effectively halts bacterial growth, leading to cell death in susceptible organisms.
The therapeutic applications of Ofloxacin are extensive, covering respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis, urinary tract infections including cystitis and pyelonephritis, skin and soft tissue infections, and sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea and chlamydia. It is also frequently prescribed for treating eye and ear infections when formulated as topical ophthalmic or otic solutions due to its excellent bioavailability and low toxicity profile in local administration. The drug demonstrates efficacy against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, making it a versatile choice for empirical therapy before specific pathogen identification. However, its use requires careful consideration of potential side effects, which may include gastrointestinal disturbances, central nervous system effects, and tendonitis. Furthermore, regulatory bodies often recommend reserving fluoroquinolones for cases where alternative antibiotics are ineffective or contraindicated to mitigate the risk of developing antimicrobial resistance. Despite these concerns, Ofloxacin remains a cornerstone in modern pharmacotherapy for managing diverse infectious diseases globally. Its stability, oral bioavailability, and once-daily dosing regimen contribute significantly to patient compliance and treatment success rates in both hospital and outpatient settings.