Corneal penetration of simultaneously applied topical levofloxacin, norfloxacin and lomefloxacin in human eyes

Abstract

Purpose: This study was performed to assess the corneal penetration of three topically applied fluoroquinolones (levofloxacin, norfloxacin and lomefloxacin) in corneal buttons obtained from patients undergoing penetrating keratoplasty. Methods: Fourteen patients received three drops each of 0.5% levofloxacin, 0.3% norfloxacin and 0.3% lomefloxacin (the standard clinically available preparations) over a 30-min interval beginning 90 mins before their scheduled keratoplasty. Corneal samples obtained from excised buttons at the time of surgery were stored at - 80 ° until analysis. The concentration of the administered fluoroquinolones was measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: The mean corneal concentration of levofloxacin (4.6 ± 3.5 μg/g, mean ± standard deviation) was significantly higher than that of lomefloxacin (2.7 ± 1.8 μg/g, p = 0.0018) and norfloxacin (1.3 ± 1.2 μg/g, p = 0.00012). Conclusion: Levofloxacin achieves a higher mean corneal concentration than norfloxacin and lomefloxacin in the human cornea. Copyright © Acta Ophthalmol Scand 2006.