Fluoroquinolones: A Class Review

Abstract

A s agents are introduced to the market, an evaluation is necessary to determine the formulary status of each new drug. This usually is accomplished by completing a general review of formulary drugs in the same class. Such a comparison includes indications for use, clinical pharmacology, clinical efficacy, adverse reactions, and cost. Antibiotics are one of the most costly groups of drugs on any formulary. Most drug budgets allot up to 25% of total expenditures to the purchase of antimicrobial agents. This review will focuson 3 fluoroquinolone agents and the tools used when formulary decisions are made (1).