Nalidixic acid

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Nalidixic Acid

Nalidixic acid (pronounced: na-li-dix-ic acid) is a synthetic quinolone that was the first oral antibiotic of the quinolone class. It is primarily used to treat urinary tract infections caused by bacteria.

Etymology

The term "Nalidixic" is derived from naphthyridine, a chemical structure present in the compound, and carboxylic acid, referring to the carboxylic acid group in its structure.

Pharmacology

Nalidixic acid works by inhibiting the DNA gyrase enzyme, which is necessary for the replication, transcription, and repair of bacterial DNA. This inhibition prevents the bacteria from reproducing or repairing their DNA, leading to their death and resolving the infection.

Related Terms

  • Quinolone: A type of antibiotic that includes nalidixic acid.
  • DNA gyrase: An enzyme that nalidixic acid inhibits to treat bacterial infections.
  • Urinary tract infection: A common infection that nalidixic acid is used to treat.

Side Effects

Like all medications, nalidixic acid can cause side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. More serious side effects can include nerve damage and serious allergic reactions.

Precautions

Nalidixic acid should not be used in patients with a history of convulsions due to the risk of inducing these. It should also be used with caution in patients with kidney disease, as it is primarily excreted by the kidneys.

See Also

External links

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