Novelties in the field of fluoroquinolones.

The field of fluoroquinolone research is rapidly expanding. Bacterial targets are constantly changing to meet the demands of resistance. At present, new compounds are targeting respiratory pathogens, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae. However, problems such as phototoxicity, cardiotoxicity and CNS disturbances must be overcome. New promising fluoroquinolones include: HSR 903, LB 20304 and BAY 12-8039. Research in the field of mycobacteria, especially for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is also underway.