oxyquinoline

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Action: 

Antibacterial Activity: Oxyquinoline and its derivatives exhibit antibacterial properties against a wide range of microorganisms. It has been used in certain topical medications and disinfectants due to its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria. 

Spectrum: 

Biological Effects: Oxyquinoline and its derivatives have shown various biological effects, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which could be useful in different therapeutic applications. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Stomach pain 

Stomach cramping 

Vaginal pain  

Odor 

Itching 

Vaginal discharge 

swelling 

Pain 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

None

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:  

Hypersensitivity: Individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to oxyquinoline or any of its components should avoid its use. 

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of oxyquinoline during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well-established. It’s recommended to avoid using it during these periods unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. 

Children: Oxyquinoline may not be recommended for use in infants and young children, unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider due to safety concerns and lack of sufficient data on its effects in this population. 

Open wounds or damaged skin: It’s important to avoid applying oxyquinoline to open wounds or extensively damaged skin, as it can potentially lead to increased absorption of the medication, causing adverse effects or toxicity. 

Neurological disorders: Oxyquinoline has been associated with rare cases of subacute myelo-optic neuropathy (SMON), a severe neurological disorder. Individuals with a history of neurological disorders or symptoms should use oxyquinoline cautiously and under medical supervision. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: Oxyquinoline, also known as oxyquinoline sulfate or clioquinol, is a synthetic compound primarily used as a topical antifungal and antibacterial agent.  

Pharmacodynamics:  

Antibacterial Properties: Oxyquinoline exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It works by interfering with the bacterial DNA synthesis and disrupting the cell membrane integrity, thereby inhibiting bacterial growth and proliferation.  

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

Oxyquinoline can be absorbed through various routes depending on the administration method. It might be absorbed orally, through the skin (topically), or through other routes of administration.  

Distribution 

Once absorbed, oxyquinoline could distribute throughout the body via the bloodstream. Its distribution might be influenced by factors such as molecular size, lipophilicity, and the presence of binding proteins. It might accumulate in specific tissues. 

Metabolism 

Oxyquinoline, if absorbed systemically, might undergo biotransformation in the liver or other tissues by enzymes.  

Excretion and Elimination 

Metabolites of oxyquinoline or unchanged oxyquinoline itself might be excreted from the body. Excretion can occur via the kidneys (urine), bile (feces), or through other routes. 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

Topical Administration: Oxyquinoline is commonly found in topical preparations such as creams, ointments, and lotions. When used topically, it’s critical to adhere to the advice given by the medical professional. or the directions on the product label. 

Oral Administration: Oxyquinoline can also be administered orally in some cases. It’s important to take oral medications exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: oxyquinoline 

Why do we use oxyquinoline?  

Oxyquinoline is used as an antiseptic agent in various topical formulations like creams, lotions, and ointments. It helps prevent bacterial and fungal growth, making it useful in treating skin infections.