Withdrawn from the market (safety)
Sparfloxacin
ZAGAM
What it isSparfloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibacterial that inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV.
Why this oneIt offered enhanced activity against gram-positive respiratory pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae for community-acquired pneumonia and other respiratory infections.
What limits itIts use was largely abandoned because of pronounced QT-interval prolongation and severe phototoxicity.
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskNo active FDA boxed warning; sparfloxacin was withdrawn/discontinued owing to QT prolongation and severe phototoxicity.