Marbofloxacin
[CAS# 115550-35-1]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Synthetic anti-infective drugs >> Quinolone
• Name: Marbofloxacin
• Synonyms: 9-Fluoro-2,3-dihydro-3-methyl-10-(4-methyl-piperazino)-7-oxo-7H-pyrido[1,2,3-ij][1,2,4]benzoxadiazine-6-carboxylic acid
• Molecular Formula: C₁₇H₁₉N₄O₄F
• Molecular Weight: 362.36
• CAS Registry Number: 115550-35-1
• EC Number: 640-416-5
• SMILES: CN1CCN(CC1)C2=C(C=C3C4=C2OCN(N4C=C(C3=O)C(=O)O)C)F

Properties

• Solubility: 2mg/mL (DMSO), <1 mg/mL (water)
• Melting point: 269 °C (decomp.)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P305+P351+P338

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361

Discovery and Applications

Marbofloxacin is a synthetic antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class, widely used in veterinary medicine to treat bacterial infections in animals. Known for its broad-spectrum activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, marbofloxacin has become an essential tool in the treatment of various bacterial infections in pets and livestock.

The discovery of marbofloxacin is rooted in the development of fluoroquinolones during the late 20th century. Fluoroquinolones were first introduced in the 1980s as a significant advancement over earlier quinolones, offering improved antibacterial activity and pharmacokinetics. Marbofloxacin was developed by the pharmaceutical company Vetoquinol and first introduced in the early 1990s as a veterinary drug. Its introduction followed the success of earlier fluoroquinolones like enrofloxacin, and it was specifically designed to cater to the needs of veterinary medicine.

Marbofloxacin works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication and transcription in bacteria. By interfering with these enzymes, marbofloxacin prevents bacterial cell division, leading to the death of the bacterial cells. This mode of action makes it effective against a wide range of bacterial pathogens, including those resistant to other classes of antibiotics.

One of the primary applications of marbofloxacin is in the treatment of respiratory, urinary tract, and skin infections in dogs and cats. It is particularly effective against common pathogens such as *Escherichia coli*, *Staphylococcus spp.*, and *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*. Its efficacy in treating infections caused by these bacteria has made it a popular choice among veterinarians.

In addition to its use in companion animals, marbofloxacin is also employed in the treatment of bacterial infections in livestock, including cattle and pigs. In cattle, it is commonly used to treat respiratory diseases, which are a significant concern in intensive farming operations. The drug's favorable pharmacokinetic profile, including good tissue penetration and a long half-life, allows for effective treatment with less frequent dosing, which is advantageous in managing infections in large animal populations.

Marbofloxacin is available in various formulations, including tablets, injectable solutions, and oral suspensions, allowing for flexible administration depending on the animal's condition and the severity of the infection. This versatility has further cemented its role in veterinary medicine.

However, like all antibiotics, the use of marbofloxacin must be carefully managed to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance. The overuse or misuse of fluoroquinolones, including marbofloxacin, can lead to the emergence of resistant bacterial strains, which is a growing concern in both human and veterinary medicine. To mitigate this risk, veterinarians are encouraged to use marbofloxacin judiciously, reserving it for cases where it is truly needed and ensuring that the full course of treatment is completed to effectively eliminate the infection.

In recent years, the use of marbofloxacin has also been explored in exotic animals, including birds and reptiles, where bacterial infections can be challenging to treat due to the unique physiology of these species. Research has shown that marbofloxacin can be effective in treating infections in these animals, though careful dosing is required to avoid potential side effects.

In summary, marbofloxacin is a potent and versatile antibiotic that has significantly impacted veterinary medicine since its introduction. Its broad-spectrum activity, combined with favorable pharmacokinetics, makes it a valuable option for treating bacterial infections in a variety of animals. However, responsible use is crucial to maintaining its effectiveness and preventing the spread of antibiotic resistance.

References

2024. Effect of single parenteral administration of marbofloxacin on bacterial load and selection of resistant Enterobacteriaceae in the fecal microbiota of healthy pigs. BMC Veterinary Research.
DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04329-9

2024. An immunochromatographic strip sensor for marbofloxacin residues. PLOS ONE.
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299709

1995. Antibacterial activity of marbofloxacin. A new fluoroquinolone for veterinary use against canine and feline isolates. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics.
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2885.1995.tb00592.x