Quinolones

www.dsf.health.state.pa.us/

Quinolones are effective in the treatment of selected community-acquired and nosocomial infections. Although these antibiotics are not well studied, they are not recommended for use in pregnancy based on laboratory research. They are often used for treatment with urinary tract infections. In the second trimester these antibiotics pose a risk of auditory and vestibular toxicity in the fetus. They cross the placental barrier causing damage to the fetus. Nalidixic acid belongs to this group of antibiotics, and works by entering the bacterial cell and inhibiting a chemical called DNA-gyrase preventing the bacteria from growing and reproducing. 1 In animals the use of this acid result in increased intracranial pressure, papilledema and bulging fontanelles in newborns. 2

Further Information & Quick Link

otispregnancy.org/otis_fact_sheets.asp/

For more information on teratogens and pregnancy to help keep your baby safe see the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists website. To view a list of medications, Herbal Products, Infections and Vaccines, Maternal Medical Conditions, Illicit Substances, and other Common Exposures and their effects during pregnancy please see the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists Fact Sheet. 3 You can access this page here: http://otispregnancy.org/otis_fact_sheets.asp

REFERENCES:

1 Czeizel, A. (December 21, 2000). A population-based case-control teratologic study of nalidixic acid. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics. October 1, 2007.

2 Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (December 9, 1999). Quinolones and the Clinical Laboratory. September 28, 2007. from http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dhqp/ar_lab_quinlolones.html

3 Organization of Teratology Information Specialists. (July 16, 2007). Fact Sheet. September 28, 2007. from http://otispregnancy.org/otis_fact_sheets.asp

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