Abstract

The ultimate goal of antimicrobial treatment is to decrease the morbidity and mortality related to infection. Maximizing these outcomes requires an understanding of the complex interactions between the drug administered, the host, and the infecting pathogen. Pharmacokinetics, which deals with the disposition of a drug in the body, focuses on such parameters as absorption, distribution, and elimination. Pharmacodynamics more specifically focuses on the interaction between the drug concentration at the site of action over time and the resulting antimicrobial effect. Use of quinolones has increased in vitro activity against several important pathogenic organisms as well as augmented pharmacokinetic parameters. These properties result in enhanced pharmacodynamic characteristics and should improve therapeutic outcomes against selected pathogens. In this article the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic potential of these quinolones, particularly fluoroquinolones, is reviewed.

• Keywords: Fluoroquinolones; Pharmacokinetics; Pharmacology