A local Bioterrorism Medical Team is learning about germ warfare. The team is instructed that a fluoroquinolone may be used to prevent an outbreak of anthrax.

What fluoroquinolone would most likely be used?

A) Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)

B) Gemifloxacin (Factive)

C) Norfloxacin (Noroxin)

D) Sparfloxacin (Zagam)

A) Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)

Explanation:

Ciprofloxacin is a potent antibiotic, which is part of the fluorquinolone class. This class has a broad spectrum of activity against various pathogenic micro-organisms that can incapacitate or kill humans and animals.

It is a prime antibiotic for the therapy of complicated urinary tract infections and bacterial diarrhea.

Ciprofloxacin is also an alternative agent for the treatment of various sexually transmitted diseases, as well as osteomyelitis and some cases of wounds.

Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride is an important weapon against bioterrorism for the treatment of the respiratory tract, being the only drug approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for treatment after exposure to inhaled anthrax.