Gatifloxacin

Gatifloxacin — Uses and Benefits

Gatifloxacin is used to treat bacterial infections in different parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis and sinusitis
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Bacterial eye infections (conjunctivitis) when used as eye drops

HOW IT WORKS

• It stops bacteria from multiplying by blocking enzymes they need to copy their DNA
• This helps the body's immune system clear the infection
• It works only against bacteria, not viruses

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Viral infections like common cold or flu
• Fungal infections
• Non-infectious causes of eye redness or irritation
• Preventive use without a confirmed bacterial infection

How to Use Gatifloxacin

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day for tablets
• Swallow the tablet with water; can be taken with or without food
• If using eye drops, wash your hands before use and avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye
• Complete the full course even if you feel better before finishing it
• Do not share this medicine with others

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use eye drops after the recommended period once opened, usually about a month
• Check the expiry date before use and discard expired medicine safely

Gatifloxacin — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Stomach discomfort

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Vomiting
• Taste disturbances
• Sleep disturbances
• Mild skin rash
• Blurred vision (with eye drops)

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, or throat
• Sudden tendon pain or swelling, especially in the ankle
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
• Severe diarrhoea that does not stop
• Signs of high or low blood sugar such as extreme thirst, sweating, or confusion
• Unusual mood changes, confusion, or seizures

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Gatifloxacin — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to gatifloxacin or other fluoroquinolone antibiotics
• Have a history of tendon problems linked to fluoroquinolones
• Are a child, unless specifically advised by a doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have diabetes, as it can affect blood sugar levels
• Have a heart rhythm problem or are on medicines affecting heart rhythm
• Have kidney disease
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a history of seizures
• Are elderly, as risk of tendon problems is higher

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Antacids or supplements containing calcium, magnesium, iron, or zinc
• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Medicines that affect heart rhythm
• Corticosteroids, which may increase tendon injury risk
• Diabetes medicines, as blood sugar changes can occur

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop the medicine once I feel better?

No, complete the full course as prescribed to avoid the infection coming back or becoming resistant to treatment.

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

If you feel dizzy or have blurred vision, avoid driving or operating machinery until you feel normal.

Is it safe to take with milk or dairy products?

• Dairy products can reduce absorption, so it is best to take the medicine a couple of hours apart from dairy, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.