Norfloxacin

NORFLOXACIN - ORAL (nor-FLOX-uh-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Noroxin

USES: Norfloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: This medication works best if taken on an empty stomach one hour before or two hours after meals. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. If you take any of the following items, take them 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking this drug: zinc, iron, sucralfate, dairy products or antacids that contain magnesium, calcium or aluminum. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea, headache or dizziness during the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor. Report new pain or tenderness (tendonitis) in arms or legs promptly. Notify your doctor if you develop skin rash, hives, restlessness, vision changes, mental/mood changes, ringing in ears or seizures. This medication may infrequently cause drowsiness. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, fever or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking this medication, tell your doctor your medical history especially of epilepsy, kidney disease, tendon problems, nervous system disorders, liver disease, blood vessel problems and of any drug allergies. Use caution driving or performing tasks requiring alertness if this medication makes you dizzy or lightheaded. Limit alcohol intake. Because this medication may make you more sensitive to the sun, avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen when outdoors. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you are taking, especially theophylline, sucralfate, zinc, iron, other antibiotics, didanosine, dairy products, warfarin, quinapril or antacids that contain calcium, or magnesium. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

NOTES: This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medication may be needed those cases.

MISSED DOSE: If you should miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.