Fluoroquinolones

ByBrian J. Werth, PharmD, University of Washington School of Pharmacy
Reviewed/Revised May 2024
VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION

Fluoroquinolones are a class of broad-spectrum antibiotics that are used to treat a variety of infections.

Fluoroquinolones include the following:

  • Norfloxacin

Fluoroquinolones can be taken by mouth, and some can be given intravenously or as ear or eye drops.

Fluoroquinolones work by interfering with DNA inside bacteria, resulting in death of the bacteria.

Table

Doctors avoid using fluoroquinolones in people who are more likely to develop a serious abnormal heart rhythm (such as people who have a long QT interval or a very slow heart rate, who take medications that cause a long QT interval or a very slow heart rate, or who have a low blood level of potassium or a low blood level of magnesium).

(See also Overview of Antibiotics.)

Use of Fluoroquinolones During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Use of fluoroquinolones during pregnancy is not recommended, but sometimes the benefits of treatment may outweigh the risks. (See also Safety of Medications During Pregnancy.)

Use of fluoroquinolones during breastfeeding is not recommended. (See also Medication and Substance Use During Breastfeeding.)

Drugs Mentioned In This Article
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