Final answer:
Levofloxacin (Levaquin®) is the 3rd generation quinolone with a broad spectrum used to treat various bacterial infections empirically. It is chosen for its effectiveness against a wide range of bacteria and is commonly prescribed for serious infections when the causative agent is unknown. Consideration of side effects and the potential for antibiotic resistance is crucial when prescribing this medication.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 3rd generation quinolone used to treat many infections empirically due to its broad spectrum is Levofloxacin (Levaquin®). Levofloxacin stands out for being the biologically-active isomer of ofloxacin, and it is an effective broad-spectrum antibiotic that can inhibit a wide range of gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria. It is commonly prescribed for various infections including urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, abdominal infections, and skin infections. Despite its efficacy, attention must be paid to possible side effects such as phototoxicity, neurotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, glucose metabolism dysfunction, and an increased risk for tendon rupture when prescribing this medication.
When treating serious systemic infections, physicians might opt for a broad-spectrum antimicrobial like Levofloxacin when there is urgency or when the causative agent is unknown. This approach can provide immediate treatment and encompasses different types of microbes, while also considering factors such as the patient's health status and potential drug interactions. However, it is important to balance this with the potential for promoting antibiotic resistance and minimizing disturbance to the body's microbiota by considering narrow-spectrum antibiotics whenever appropriate and possible.