Fluoroquinolones associated “Photogenotoxicity”:

 Dr.Naina Mohamed Pakkir Maideen

¨  High doses of Fluoroquinolones can bind to DNA directly and cause DNA damage by inhibiting topoisomerase IIα activity.

¨  In presence of Ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation, Fluoroquinolones cause DNA oxidation & topoisomerase IIα inhibition which may lead to DNA damage.

¨  Patients should be warned to avoid exposure to direct sunlight or UV light during treatment and until 36 hours after the discontinuation of treatment, because of the risk of Photogenotoxicity.

¨  Due to severe side effects of Fluoroquinolones, they are not used for regular treatment of bacterial infections.