Indications
Norfloxacin is primarily indicated for the treatment of urinary tract infections. It is an effective option for managing infections caused by susceptible bacteria in the urinary tract.
Pharmacodynamics
As a quinolone/fluoroquinolone antibiotic, Norfloxacin exhibits bactericidal properties. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting bacterial DNA replication through binding to the enzyme DNA gyrase. This binding prevents the necessary untwisting of DNA strands, hindering the replication process of bacterial DNA. Notably, Norfloxacin demonstrates a significantly higher affinity for bacterial DNA gyrase compared to mammalian counterparts, enhancing its specificity and effectiveness against bacterial infections.
Absorption
Norfloxacin is rapidly absorbed following administration.
Metabolism
The metabolism of Norfloxacin occurs in both the liver and kidneys. These organs play a crucial role in processing and eliminating the drug from the body, thus influencing its therapeutic efficacy and duration of action.
Mechanism of Action
Norfloxacin functions as a broad-spectrum antibiotic by exerting its bactericidal effects through the inhibition of the enzymes topoisomerase II (DNA gyrase) and topoisomerase IV. These enzymes are critical for bacterial DNA processes, such as replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. Norfloxacin demonstrates efficacy against a wide array of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial species. The presence of a fluorine atom at the 6-position enhances its effectiveness against Gram-negative organisms, while the piperazine moiety at the 7-position contributes to its activity against Pseudomonas species.
