Trade Names/Brand Names :
India :
International :
Maxaquin
Why it is prescribed :
This medication is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, prescribed for various bacterial infections such as lower respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, and Chlamydia. It kills sensitive bacteria by stopping the production of essential proteins that the bacteria require to survive.
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications):
Hypersensitivity to the drug or other quinolones, children less than 18 years, pregnancy and lactation.
Category C :
Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus and there are no appropriate studies in pregnant women, but potential benefits may allow the use of the drug in pregnant women despite the potential for risks.
Dosage & When it is to be taken (Indications):
Adult: Oral- 400 mg once daily for 3 to 14 days depending on the type and severity of infection. Dose may be reduced in patients with kidney disease.
Prevention of infection before surgery: It should be administered 1 to 6 hours prior to surgery.
Eye and Ear drops: Instill 3% solution as directed by your physician.
How it should be taken :
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food. It also comes as eye/ear drops.
Warnings and Precautions :
It may increase the sensitivity to sunlight; avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or artificial UV light.
Patient may develop with increased risk of epilepsy, if it so, stop the medication.
Caution should be exercised in patients with history of known or suspected CNS disorders such as epilepsy, kidney disease, tendon problems, nervous system disorders, liver disease, blood vessel problems, any drug allergies.
Avoid in patients with known QT prolongation, uncorrected low potassium level in blood.
Side Effects :
Most Common:
Headache, nausea, photo-sensitivity, dizziness, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, increased sweating, dry mouth, flushing and syncope.
Other rare adverse effects include:
Body as a whole:
Fatigue, back pain, uneasiness, weakness, face swelling, hot flashes, influenza-like symptoms, chills, allergic reaction and decreased heat tolerance.
Heart:
Fast heart rate, high/low blood pressure, heart attack, chest pain, heart failure, slow heart rate, abnormal heart rhythm, inflammation of veins, pulmonary embolism (blood clot in lungs)and poor blood supply to the brain.
Central nervous system:
Tremor, vertigo, tingling, twitching, muscle tightness, seizures, coma, sleeplessness, nervousness, drowsiness, depression, confusion, agitation, depersonalization, paranoid reaction, anxiety, abnormal thinking and poor concentration.
Gastrointestinal:
Indigestion, vomiting, flatulence, loss of appetite, constipation, gastrointestinal bleeding, difficulty in swallowing, mouth ulcer, tongue discoloration and gastrointestinal inflammation.
Eye and ENT:
Abnormal vision, conjunctivitis, photophobia, eye pain, pain in the ear, tinnitus and taste perversion.
Blood:
Bruising, swollen lymph nodes, increase/decrease in platelets, anemia and increased fibrinolysis.
Liver:
Abnormal liver function.
Metabolic:
Increased thirst, increased appetite, increase/decrease in sugar level and gout.
Musculoskeletal:
Joint/muscle pain and leg cramps.
Genitourinary:
Vaginal infection/inflammation, vaginal discharge, perineal pain, irregular periods, inflammation of testes, blood in urine, urinary frequency and painful urination.
Respiratory:
Respiratory tract infection/inflammation, difficulty in breathing, cough, nosebleed, asthma, increased sputum, wheezing and respiratory depression.
Skin:
Itching, rash, hives, skin exfoliation, scaling, eczema, pimples, skin discoloration and skin ulceration.
Other Precautions :
It may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, do not drive a car, or operate machinery, while taking this medication.
Drink adequate fluids.
Storage Conditions :
Store it at room temperature, and keep away from moisture and light.
Careers
