Which drug is a third-generation fluoroquinolone used for post-operative corneal ulcers?

• A. Ofloxacin
• B. Ciprofloxacin
• C. Levofloxacin
• D. Moxifloxacin

Answer: (A)

Third-generation fluoroquinolones are chosen here because they combine strong Gram-positive coverage with robust Gram-negative activity and excellent penetration into corneal tissue, making them especially effective for post-operative corneal infections. Levofloxacin fits this profile well and is commonly used topically for post-operative corneal ulcers because it reliably covers the usual pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas species. Ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin are older, second-generation agents with good Gram-negative activity but comparatively less Gram-positive coverage, while moxifloxacin is a newer fourth-generation drug with even broader activity. Therefore, levofloxacin is the third-generation fluoroquinolone most aligned with this use.