Aqueous Pharmacokinetics of Levofloxacin after Oral Administration

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To evaluate intraocular penetration and the pharmacokinetic parameters of levofloxacin into the aqueous humor and plasma after oral administration, and describe the concentration curves. Methods: 45 eyes of 45 patients undergoing cataract surgery were enrolled. Aqueous and serum samples were obtained and later analyzed from each patient after oral administration of two 500–mg tablets. Levofloxacin was administered, respectively, the night before at 9.00 PM and at 7.00 AM the day of surgery. Patients were divided into eight groups. Aqueous and plasma samples were obtained at 105±15, 135±15, 165±15, 195±15, 225±15, 255±15, 285±15, 315±15 minutes from last tablet administration. Aqueous and serum concentration were measured by high–performance liquid chromatography. Results: 

Conclusions: Aqueous humor concentrations of levofloxacin detected at each interval were above the MIC₉₀ levels against a majority of ocular patogens including Staphylococcus Epidermidis, Staphylococcus Aureus, Streptococcus Pneumoniae, and most gram–negative aerobic organisms. Mean MIC₉₀ levels were obtained in the aqueous for a majority of pathogens responsible for most postoperative, traumatic or bleb–related endophthalmitis. #

Keywords: antibiotics/antifungals/antiparasitics • aqueous • pharmacology