Norfloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. Here’s a detailed overview:
Description:
Norfloxacin is a synthetic antibiotic that inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, interfering with DNA replication and repair. It is primarily effective against gram-negative bacteria.
Brand Names:
- Noroxin
- Norflox
- Norfloxin
- Norfloxacine (varies by country)
- Norfloxa (varies by country)
Available Forms and Strengths:
- Tablets: 400 mg
- Oral Suspension: Not commonly available (primarily in tablet form)
Uses:
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Effective for uncomplicated UTIs and some complicated UTIs
- Prostatitis: Chronic bacterial prostatitis
- Gastrointestinal Infections: Sometimes used for traveler’s diarrhea due to specific bacteria
Side Effects:
- Common: Nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, abdominal pain
- Serious: Tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, seizures, QT interval prolongation, hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., rash, anaphylaxis)
Dosage:
- Adults: Typically 400 mg twice daily for 7 to 14 days, depending on the infection and its severity.
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to norfloxacin or other fluoroquinolones
- Tendon Disorders: History of tendon rupture or other 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 on corticosteroids
- Central Nervous System Effects: Potential for seizures, increased intracranial pressure, and other CNS effects
- Cardiac Effects: Risk of QT interval prolongation, which may lead to serious heart rhythm disturbances
- Clostridium difficile: Risk of severe Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice, appropriate dosage, and potential drug interactions.