Gatifloxacin 400mg

Gatifloxacin 400mg — Uses and Benefits

Gatifloxacin 400mg is prescribed to treat a range of bacterial infections affecting different parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis and sinusitis
• Certain urinary tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections caused by susceptible bacteria
• Some eye infections (in specific formulations)
• Other bacterial infections as advised by your doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks enzymes bacteria need to copy their DNA
• This stops bacteria from multiplying and eventually kills them
• It is effective mainly against bacteria, not viruses or fungi

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Common cold, flu, or other viral infections
• Fungal infections
• As a general painkiller or fever reducer
• Self-treatment without a doctor's prescription and diagnosis

Always use this medicine only for the condition it has been prescribed for, and complete the full course as directed, even if you feel better after a few doses.

How to Use Gatifloxacin 400mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water
• Drink plenty of fluids while on this medicine
• Avoid taking antacids, calcium, iron, or zinc supplements close to the time of your dose, as they can reduce absorption
• Complete the full course even if you feel better before finishing it

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
• Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one
• Try to take doses at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in the body

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink

Gatifloxacin 400mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Stomach discomfort

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Vomiting
• Skin rash or itching
• Changes in taste
• Sleep disturbances
• Vaginal itching or discharge (in women)

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Sudden tendon pain, swelling, or difficulty moving a joint (risk of tendon rupture)
• Irregular heartbeat, palpitations, or fainting
• Severe allergic reaction: swelling of face/lips/throat, difficulty breathing, severe rash
• Signs of high or low blood sugar such as confusion, sweating, or shakiness
• Persistent diarrhea with blood or mucus
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands or feet
• Unusual mood changes, confusion, hallucinations, or seizures

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

Gatifloxacin 400mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should not be used without a doctor's advice.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to gatifloxacin or other fluoroquinolone antibiotics
• Have a history of tendon problems linked to fluoroquinolones
• Have uncontrolled diabetes with a tendency toward blood sugar swings
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by your doctor
• Are under 18 years of age, unless prescribed by a specialist

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a heart condition, especially irregular heartbeat (QT prolongation)
• Have diabetes
• Have kidney disease
• Have a history of seizures or nerve problems
• Have myasthenia gravis
• Are elderly, as risk of side effects may be higher

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Antacids, calcium, iron, or zinc supplements
• Other medicines affecting heart rhythm
• Oral diabetes medicines or insulin
• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Steroid medicines (increased risk of tendon problems)
• NSAIDs (may increase risk of nervous system side effects)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

No, complete the full course as prescribed to prevent the infection from returning or bacteria becoming resistant.

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

Use caution, as it may cause dizziness in some people; avoid driving until you know how it affects you.

Is it safe to take with milk or dairy products?

• It's best to avoid taking it at the same time as dairy or calcium-rich foods, as they can reduce its effectiveness.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.