Bacterial infection

Factive Antibiotic

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Factive is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is used to treat adults 18 years or older with bronchitis or pneumonia (lung infections) caused by certain bacteria (germs). It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Factive is an antibiotic that is meant to only treat bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu).

How do I take Factive?

Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily with or without food, or as directed by your doctor. Swallow whole. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Antibiotics always work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take Factive at evenly spaced intervals. Continue to take the medication 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. Speak with your doctor if your condition does not improve.

Does Factive have any side effects?

This is not a complete list of side effects reported with Factive. Speak with your doctor for a more complete list.
Some common side effects with Factive include:

  • rash – if you get a rash, stop taking Factive and contact your doctor asap
  • diarrhea
  • nausea
  • headache
  • vomiting
  • stomach pain
  • dizziness
  • change in the way things taste in your mouth

Some signs of rare but serious side effects include:

  • a rare heart problem known as prolongation of the QTc interval central nervous system problems including body shakes (tremors), restless feeling, lightheaded feelings, confusion, and hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there)
  • tendon problems including tendonitis or rupture (“tears”) of a tendon
  • phototoxicity (making your skin sunburn easier)
  • Factive and other quinolones may cause joint problems (arthropathy) in children

Is there anything my doctor should know before I use Factive?

Before taking Factive (gemifloxacin), tell your doctor or pharmacist:

  • If you are allergic to it; or to other quinolones such as ciprofloxacin, gatifloxacin, levofloxacin, or moxifloxacin; or if you have any other allergies.
  • Your medical history, especially of: brain or nervous system disorders (e.g., cerebral arteriosclerosis, tumors, increased intracranial pressure), heart problems (e.g., cardiomyopathy, slow heart rate, torsades de pointes, QTc prolongation), history of seizures, kidney disease, liver disease, muscle/joint/tendon problems, untreated mineral imbalance (e.g., low potassium or magnesium).
  • If you are breast-feeding or going to be breast-feeding. It is not known if Factive passes into breast milk.

What do I need to know before using Factive?

  • Factive may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution when driving or using machinery.
  • Limit alcoholic beverages.
  • Factive may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths or sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
  • If you have diabetes and are taking insulin or oral anti-diabetic drugs (e.g., glyburide), you may experience changes in blood glucose levels due to infection or use of Factive(gemifloxacin). Monitor your blood glucose frequently while using this medication and notify your doctor if you experience symptoms of high or low blood sugar. Symptoms of high blood sugar include increased thirst and urination. Symptoms of low blood sugar include dizziness, hunger, sweating and fast pulse.
  • Caution is advised when using Factive in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its side effects (e.g., tendon problems, especially if they are also taking corticosteroids drugs such as prednisone).

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