Fluoroquinolone drugs

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Please note, the below information reflects drugs used in the United States; names and brands may differ in other countries and may be found on:

https://www.drugs.com/

or

https://www.whocc.no/atc_ddd_index/

The class name itself - fluoroquinolones - reflects that key structural feature: they’re quinolones with added fluorine.   Nalidixic acid = the original quinolone antibiotic without a fluorine atom.  

The main fluoroquinolones used in the USA include generics along with the name brand  - levofloxacin (Levaquin -  taken off market), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), ciprofloxacin extended-release tablets, moxifloxacin (Avelox), ofloxacin, gemifloxacin (Factive), delafloxacin (Baxdela), norfloxacin and Quinsair. 

 ➥  Various forms:  pill, eye or ear drops, inhalers, intravenous (aka "injectable")

Key Differences Across Drug Generations:

 ➡️ Spectrum of Activity: Each generation added broader and more targeted coverage, especially against gram-positive bacteria and anaerobes.

 ➡️ Application: Later generations are used to treat a wider range of infections, including respiratory, urinary, gastrointestinal, and skin infections.

Fluoroquinolones Removed from U.S. Market (may not be complete list):

Cinoxacin; Clinafloxacin; Fleroxacin; Flumequine; Gatifloxacin; Grepafloxacin; Nalidixic acid; Pefloxacin; Temafloxacin (Omniflox); Sarafloxacin, Sparfloxacin; Zagam

Restricted fluoroquinolone:  trovafloxacin (Trovan)

 ➥  See FDA and EMA warnings on these drugs.

                               The below was updated November 2024 and may have omissions.