Reliability of phototoxic tests of fluoroquinolones in vitro.

AIM: To make sure the reliability of phototoxic tests in vitro by comparing the phototoxic potential of 4 fluoroquinolones (FQ).

METHODS

Lomefloxacin (LFLX), sparfloxacin (SPFX), ciprofloxacin (CPFX), and norfloxacin (NFLX) were tested by Wistar rat phototoxic test and Balb/c mouse phototoxic test in vivo, and Chinese hamster V79 cell micronucleus test and NIH 3T3 MTT test in vitro under the different condition of UVA irradiation.

RESULTS

In all experiments, LFLX and SPFX showed higher phototoxic potential compared with the control (P<0.01 vs 1 % CMC), CPFX was mild (P<0.05 vs physiological saline), NFLX did not show phototoxicity in vivo, however at a higher concentration (10 micromol/L) in vitro, it also induced phototoxicity as other FQ.

CONCLUSION

There are good correlations between phototoxic tests in vivo and in vitro. These results ensure the validation of phototoxic tests in vitro.