Gatifloxacin: Chemical Structure, Mechanism of Action, Uses & Side Effects

Chemical Formula:

• C19H22FN3O4

Structure of Gatifloxacin

Mechanism of Action:

• Gatifloxacin is a fourth-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic.

• It acts by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes responsible for the unwinding and supercoiling of bacterial DNA.

• This inhibition prevents DNA replication, transcription, and repair, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death.

Uses:

• Gatifloxacin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including:

• Acute bacterial sinusitis

• Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis

• Community-acquired pneumonia

• Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections

Side Effects:

Some common side effects of gatifloxacin include:

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Abdominal pain

• Vomiting

Serious side effects may include:

• Tendon rupture or inflammation

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Central nervous system effects (e.g., seizures, anxiety, depression)

• Photosensitivity

• Hypersensitivity reactions

• QT interval prolongation

• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea