Nalidixic acid

Nalidixic acid is a synthetic quinolone that was first used clinically in 1962. It is classified as a first-generation quinolone, which means it was the first class of quinolones to be synthesized. It is primarily used as an antibacterial agent, specifically for the treatment of urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria.

History

Nalidixic acid was discovered by George Lesher and his team in 1962. It was the first synthetic quinolone to be discovered and used clinically. The discovery of nalidixic acid led to the development of fluoroquinolones, a broader class of antibiotics.

Medical uses

Nalidixic acid is primarily used to treat urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria. It works by inhibiting the DNA gyrase enzyme, which is necessary for the replication and synthesis of bacterial DNA. By inhibiting this enzyme, nalidixic acid prevents the bacteria from reproducing and growing.

Side effects

Common side effects of nalidixic acid include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Less common side effects include rash, itching, and photosensitivity. In rare cases, nalidixic acid can cause serious side effects such as convulsions and psychosis.

Mechanism of action

Nalidixic acid works by inhibiting the DNA gyrase enzyme, which is necessary for the replication and synthesis of bacterial DNA. By inhibiting this enzyme, nalidixic acid prevents the bacteria from reproducing and growing.

Resistance

Resistance to nalidixic acid can occur through a number of mechanisms, including mutations in the DNA gyrase gene, decreased permeability of the bacterial cell wall, and the production of efflux pumps that remove the drug from the cell.

See also

• Quinolone
• Urinary tract infection
• DNA gyrase

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