Quinolones in sexually transmitted diseases.

The role of quinolones in the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases is assessed. Little is known of their activity against Treponema pallidum. These compounds are all highly active against Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and have produced good in vivo results with a single dose. Only the more recent compounds show useful antichlamydial activity in vitro. Clinical trials with ofloxacin demonstrate the efficacy of a single daily dose for 7 days for chlamydial genital infection in men and women. Results for treatment of bacterial vaginosis have so far been disappointing. Ciprofloxacin and fleroxacin are effective for chancroid. The potential for treating pelvic inflammatory disease with new quinolones is discussed.