Norfloxacin nicotinate (CAS 118803-81-9)

Norfloxacin nicotinate, identified by the CAS number 118803-81-9, is a chemical derivative of norfloxacin, where the norfloxacin molecule is conjugated with nicotinic acid. This compound retains the core antibacterial properties of norfloxacin, which belongs to the fluoroquinolone class of molecules, but with altered pharmacokinetic characteristics due to the nicotinate addition. The primary action of norfloxacin nicotinate involves the inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes critical for DNA replication and transcription in bacterial cells. By binding to these enzymes, norfloxacin nicotinate interferes with the supercoiling process of bacterial DNA, leading to errors in replication and ultimately bacterial cell death. In research settings, norfloxacin nicotinate has been utilized to study the impacts of structural modifications on the activity and properties of fluoroquinolones. The addition of nicotinic acid is particularly of interest in investigating how solubility and absorption profiles can be enhanced, which is crucial for optimizing the efficacy of fluoroquinolone-based compounds. Such studies help in understanding the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of modified antibiotics, providing insights into the design of more effective antibacterial agents with potentially improved therapeutic profiles. This research is significant for advancing the development of novel strategies to combat antibiotic resistance.