Norfloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. Here’s a comprehensive summary:
Description:
Norfloxacin is a synthetic antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, which are essential for bacterial DNA replication and repair. It is effective primarily against gram-negative bacteria.
Brand Names:
- Noroxin
- Norflox
- Norfloxin
- Norfloxa (varies by country)
- Norfloxacine (varies by country)
Available Forms and Strengths:
- Tablets: 400 mg
- capsule:400mg
- Oral Suspension: Generally not available; primarily in tablet form
Uses:
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Treats uncomplicated and some complicated UTIs.
- Chronic Prostatitis: Used for chronic bacterial prostatitis.
- Traveler’s Diarrhea: Effective against diarrhea caused by specific bacteria.
- Gastrointestinal Infections: Treats certain bacterial infections of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Skin Infections: Occasionally used for skin infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
- Respiratory Infections: Limited use for specific respiratory infections.
Side Effects:
- Common: Nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, abdominal pain.
- Serious: Tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, seizures, QT interval prolongation, hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., rash, anaphylaxis).
- Other: Photosensitivity, tendinitis, confusion, hallucinations, and joint pain.
Dosage:
- Adults: Typically 400 mg twice daily for 7 to 14 days, depending on the infection type and severity. Adjustments may be needed based on patient-specific factors.
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to norfloxacin or other fluoroquinolones.
- Tendon Disorders: History of tendon rupture or tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use.
- Central Nervous System Disorders: Caution in patients with a history of seizures or other central nervous system conditions.
Warnings:
- Tendon Risk: Increased risk of tendon rupture, particularly in older adults and those taking corticosteroids.
- Central Nervous System Effects: Potential for seizures, increased intracranial pressure, and other CNS effects.
- Cardiac Effects: Risk of QT interval prolongation, potentially leading to serious heart rhythm disturbances.
- Clostridium difficile: Risk of severe Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, which can be severe and life-threatening.
Always consult a healthcare provider for specific medical advice and to ensure appropriate dosage and management based on individual health conditions.
