Abstract :
A novel strategy in medicinal chemistry to increase the therapeutic efficacy and reduce the side effects of separate medications is the creation of mutual prodrugs. The production and pharmacological assessment of a mutual prodrug including the broad-spectrum antibiotic class fluoroquinolones and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) mefenamic acid are the main topics of this paper. The justification for this combination is its ability to reduce the gastrointestinal and other systemic side effects that are frequently linked to NSAIDs and fluoroquinolones, while also potentially enhancing anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activity in a synergistic manner. The chemical characteristics, production pathways, and modes of action of mefenamic acid and fluoroquinolones are thoroughly covered in this work. The design strategies for mutual prodrugs are further examined, emphasising the need to optimise reaction conditions and choose appropriate chemical linkers in order to produce a stable and potent prodrug. By contrasting the mutual prodrug with its parent molecules, a review of in vitro and in vivo research is conducted to assess the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic advantages of this strategy. The paper also discusses the difficulties that arise during the synthesis and development of mutual prodrugs, such as problems with stability, bioavailability, and regulatory barriers. Future perspectives on the potential of mutual prodrugs in drug development are discussed in the paper's conclusion, which highlights the need for more study to get past present obstacles and fully realise the therapeutic benefits of this exciting approach.
Keyword :
Mefenamic acid, Fluoroquinolones, Mutual prodrug, Prodrug synthesis