Penetration of temafloxacin into body tissues and fluids.

The new fluoroquinolone antimicrobial temafloxacin shows good penetration into a range of body tissues and fluids, after single or repeated oral administration to healthy volunteers and patients undergoing various procedures. Temafloxacin concentrations in respiratory tissues and fluids, nasal secretions, tonsils, prostate, semen, bone and blister fluid were similar to, or greater than, concurrent serum concentrations. Penetration into sinus secretions and cerebrospinal fluid is less marked; nevertheless, temafloxacin concentrations of approximately 2.4 and 1 mg/L, respectively, were achieved. Concentrations of temafloxacin observed in these tissues and fluids exceed the minimum concentrations required to eradicate the majority of bacterial pathogens associated with respiratory infections, tonsillitis, sinusitis, prostatitis, bone infections and meningitis. Since elimination of temafloxacin occurs by the renal route, high concentrations of the drug are also found in the urine. Biliary excretion of temafloxacin accounts for about 3% and leads to high biliary concentrations of the drug.