Drug without Prescription:
Gatifloxacin is a member of the "quinolone" family of antibiotics. It is used to treat acute sinus infections, skin infections, pneumonia, complications of chronic bronchitis, kidney and urinary tract infections, and gonorrhea.
Quinolone antibiotics can cause serious and sometimes fatal allergic reactions, sometimes after a single dose. Stop taking this drug and call your doctor immediately if you develop swelling in the tongue, throat, or face; difficulty breathing or swallowing; itching, tingling; rash; hives; rapid or irregular heartbeat; seizures; or any other sign of an allergic reaction.
Prescription is used for:
Take Gatifloxacin by mouth, with or without food, usually once daily, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage and duration is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Drink plenty of fluids while using this drug unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Take Gatifloxacin at least 4 hours before taking any drugs that contain magnesium or aluminum. Some examples include quinapril, certain forms of didanosine (chewable/dispersible buffered tablets or pediatric oral solution), vitamins/minerals, and antacids. Follow the same instructions if you also take bismuth subsalicylate, sucralfate, iron, and zinc. These medications bind with gatifloxacin and prevent its full absorption. Antibiotics work best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals (at the same time every day). Continue to take Gatifloxacin 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, which may result in a relapse of the infection. Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
No Prescription:
Gatifloxacin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Gatifloxacin belongs to a class of drugs called quinolone antibiotics. This antibiotic only treats bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or overuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness
Prescription Side Effects:
Change in the amount of urine;
Diarrhea;
Dizziness;
Easy bruising/bleeding;
Fainting;
Fast/irregular heartbeats;
Headache;
Heart palpitations;
High blood pressure;
Labored breathing;
Mental/mood changes (including depression rare thoughts of suicide);
Nausea;
New signs of infection (eg fever persistent sore throat);
Numbness/tingling/weakness of arms/legs;
Persist or worsen;
Persistent nausea/vomiting;
Seizures;
Stomach pain;
Swelling of the ankles/hands/feet;
Uncontrolled movements (eg tremors);
Vaginal inflammation;
Vision changes;
Vomiting;
Yellowing of eyes or skin;
Prescription Recommended Dosage:
ADULTS
Acute Sinus Infections
The usual dose is 400 milligrams taken once a day for 10 days.
Bacterial Complications of Chronic Bronchitis
The usual dose is 400 milligrams once a day for 5 days.
Complicated Urinary Tract Infections, Kidney Inflammation, or Skin Infections
The usual dose is 400 milligrams taken once a day for 7 to 10 days.
Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections
You may be prescribed 200 milligrams once a day for 3 days. Alternatively, you may be given a single dose of 400 milligrams.
Gonorrhea
The usual treatment is a single dose of 400 milligrams.
Pneumonia
The usual dose is 400 milligrams taken once a day for 7 to 14 days.
Patients with poor kidney function may need smaller doses.
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