Metronidazole vs Norfloxacin

## Metronidazole vs Norfloxacin: Overview

This comparison examines the pharmacological differences between **Metronidazole** and **Norfloxacin**.

## Mechanism of Action

**Metronidazole**: Forms cytotoxic free radicals that damage bacterial DNA.

**Norfloxacin**: Second-generation fluoroquinolone inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV.

## Pharmacokinetics

**Half-life**: Metronidazole — 8 hours; Norfloxacin — 3-4 hours.

## Chemical Properties

**Molecular Formula**: Metronidazole — C6H9N3O3; Norfloxacin — C16H18FN3O3.

**Molecular Weight**: Metronidazole — 171.1540 g/mol; Norfloxacin — 319.3310 g/mol.

**Type**: Metronidazole — Small molecule; Norfloxacin — Small molecule.