Abstract
Gemifloxacin is a new respiratory fluoroquinolone that was approved as Factive® in Russian Federation in December 2005. Among the fluoroquinolones this agent is the most active against Streptococcus pneumoniae, and has similar to other respiratory fluoroquinolones activity for atypical pathogens (Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila). Gemifloxacin demonstrates high tissue penetration and achieves concentrations in the alveolar macrophages, bronchial mucosa, and epithelial lining fluid that greatly exceed minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for major respiratory pathogens. All these favorable properties designate this antimicrobial agent for the predominant use in the treatment of community-acquired lower respiratory tract infections in adults. The review provides currently available data on antimicrobial properties, pharmacokinetics, and drug interactions of gemifloxacin. Results of controlled clinical studies of efficacy and safety in adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia and acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis/COPD are also discussed in detail.
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