A fluoroquinolone is described as having excellent activity against atypical pathogens and Streptococcus pneumoniae, making it suitable as monotherapy for community-acquired pneumonia. This drug is MOST likely:
- A Levofloxacin ✓
- B Ciprofloxacin
- C Norfloxacin
- D Nalidixic acid
Correct answer: A. Levofloxacin
Explanation
Levofloxacin and moxifloxacin are 'respiratory fluoroquinolones' with enhanced Gram-positive activity (including S. pneumoniae) and excellent coverage of atypical organisms (Mycoplasma, Chlamydophila, Legionella). Ciprofloxacin has superior Gram-negative activity but is less effective against pneumococci. Norfloxacin is restricted to urinary tract infections due to poor tissue penetration. Nalidixic acid is a first-generation quinolone used only for uncomplicated UTIs.
Reference: KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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