Pefloxacin
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Molecule Summary
| Uses | Bacterial infections |
| Therapy | Antibiotic |
| Side Effects | Headache, insomnia, gastrointestinal disturbances |
Medicines
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19k pincodes
Molecule Description
Pefloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat various infections caused by bacteria, including those affecting the urinary tract, skin, soft tissues, lungs, stomach, bones, joints, and reproductive organs. It can also be used to treat infections such as typhoid fever and surgical site infections. The medicine should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, ideally with or after meals, to reduce stomach upset. It is important to take it at the same time each day and not to exceed the prescribed dose.
It works by stopping the growth and spread of bacteria in the body, helping your immune system to clear the infection. While it is generally well-tolerated, some people may experience side effects such as stomach upset, joint or muscle pain, sensitivity to sunlight, headaches, trouble sleeping, or a drop in platelet count. If you notice anything unusual or bothersome, speak to your doctor.
Certain medicines can interact with Pefloxacin. These include cancer drugs, blood thinners, caffeine, cyclosporin, painkillers like NSAIDs, rifampicin, chloramphenicol, and theophylline. These interactions can either increase side effects or reduce the effectiveness of the medicine. Inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking to prevent potential interactions or complications. If you have severe liver problems or are pregnant or breastfeeding, let your doctor know, as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
Store the medicine in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children. While there is no known harm from alcohol, avoid driving or using machines if you feel dizzy or confused during treatment. Avoid sunlight or UV exposure during treatment and for a few days after, as the medicine can make your skin more sensitive.
Uses
Pefloxacin is recommended for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including infections of the urinary tract, skin, soft tissues, lungs, stomach, bones, joints and reproductive organs, typhoid fever and surgical site infections.
Contraindications
When should one not use Pefloxacin
If you are allergic to pefloxacin or any other ingredients of this medicine.
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
Generally Pefloxacin is well tolerated. However, gastrointestinal disturbances, muscle and/or joint pains, photosensitivity reactions, neurological disturbances (headache, insomnia), and thrombocytopenia have been reported by patients in rare cases.
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Breast Feeding
Driving
Alcohol
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- If you have severe liver problems, your doctor may need to adjust your dose.
- If you have a lung infection, don't use Pefloxacin first unless your doctor has confirmed the type of bacteria causing it.
- If you are taking this medication, avoid exposure to sunlight and UV rays during treatment and for a few days afterwards to prevent skin reactions.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
Pefloxacin works by blocking an important enzyme that bacteria need to copy their DNA. Without this, the bacteria cannot grow or multiply, so the infection can be stopped and your body can heal. It is effective against many types of bacteria that cause different infections.
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- Some cancer medicines may lower the amount of Pefloxacin in your blood.
- This medication can enhance the effects of caffeine, causing you to feel more alert or jittery.
- Blood thinners may work strongly when taken with this medication, increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Taking Pefloxacin with cyclosporin can increase the chance of kidney problems.
- This medication can raise the level of theophylline, which may cause side effects or toxicity.
- Using this medication with pain relievers like NSAIDs might cause excitement or nervous system problems.
- Rifampicin can decrease the concentration of Pefloxacin in your blood, reducing its effectiveness.
- Chloramphenicol may reduce the effectiveness of this medication against infections.
Dosage
Overdose
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.
Missed a Dose
If you miss any dose of Pefloxacin, take it as soon as you remember with food. However, if it is time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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