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Factive

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Gemifloxacin Mesylate

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Factive (gemifloxacin mesylate) is a prescription antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections affecting the lungs and respiratory tract.

Factive contains gemifloxacin, an antibiotic that belongs to a class of medications called fluoroquinolones. These medications work by preventing bacteria from multiplying, helping your body fight the infection.

Factive is used to treat certain respiratory infections caused by bacteria that are susceptible to gemifloxacin. These include community-acquired pneumonia and acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.

Unlike medications that simply relieve coughing or breathing discomfort, Factive targets the bacteria responsible for the infection.

Factive is intended for adults aged 18 years and older. Your healthcare provider will determine whether this antibiotic is appropriate based on your symptoms, the type of bacterial infection, medical history, and other treatment options.

Treatment of Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP)

Factive is used to treat mild to moderate community-acquired pneumonia caused by certain susceptible bacteria.

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a lung infection that develops outside a hospital or other healthcare setting.

Pneumonia occurs when bacteria or other infectious organisms enter the lungs and cause inflammation in the tiny air sacs called alveoli.

These air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, making it more difficult for oxygen to pass into your bloodstream.

Common symptoms of bacterial pneumonia include coughing, fever, chills, chest discomfort, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.

Factive may be prescribed for pneumonia caused by susceptible strains of the following bacteria:

  • Streptococcus pneumoniae: A common cause of bacterial pneumonia. Factive is active against certain susceptible strains, including some multidrug-resistant strains.
  • Haemophilus influenzae: A bacterium that can cause respiratory infections, particularly in people with underlying lung conditions.
  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae: A bacterium associated with atypical pneumonia, which may cause persistent coughing, fever, and fatigue.
  • Chlamydia pneumoniae: A bacterium that can cause respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia.
  • Moraxella catarrhalis: A bacterium that may cause pneumonia, particularly in people with chronic respiratory disease.
  • Klebsiella pneumoniae: A bacterium that can cause certain types of bacterial pneumonia, sometimes leading to more serious respiratory infections.

By targeting these bacteria, Factive helps treat the underlying infection and allows the inflammation in your lungs to improve.

During successful treatment, symptoms such as fever, coughing, chest discomfort, and fatigue may gradually decrease.

However, the time needed for recovery depends on the severity of your infection, your overall health, and whether the bacteria respond to treatment.

Factive only treats pneumonia caused by susceptible bacteria. It does not treat viral pneumonia caused by influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or other viruses.

Your healthcare provider may recommend additional testing, such as a chest X-ray, sputum culture, or blood tests, to help evaluate your infection. 

Treatment of Acute Bacterial Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis (ABECB)

Factive is also used to treat acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis in adults when other suitable treatment options are unavailable.

Chronic bronchitis is a long-term respiratory condition that causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air into and out of your lungs.

People with chronic bronchitis often experience a persistent cough that produces mucus, along with wheezing, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath.

An acute exacerbation occurs when these symptoms suddenly become worse than usual.

Some exacerbations are caused by bacterial infections, while others may result from viruses, air pollution, or other respiratory irritants.

Factive may be used when a bacterial infection is responsible for the worsening symptoms.

Bacteria that may cause acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis include:

  • Haemophilus influenzae: Can contribute to increased mucus production, coughing, and worsening respiratory symptoms.
  • Haemophilus parainfluenzae: May cause bacterial respiratory infections in people with chronic bronchitis.
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae: Can cause infections that increase inflammation in the airways.
  • Moraxella catarrhalis: A common cause of respiratory infections in people with chronic lung disease.

By preventing these bacteria from multiplying, Factive helps control the infection and may improve symptoms such as increased coughing, mucus production, and breathing discomfort.

However, Factive is not recommended as a routine first-choice treatment for acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics can cause serious and potentially disabling side effects, including tendon inflammation or rupture, nerve damage, and nervous system reactions.

For this reason, Factive should generally be reserved for bacterial bronchitis exacerbations when no suitable alternative antibiotic is available. 

How Does Factive Work?

Factive contains gemifloxacin mesylate, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that works by interfering with bacterial DNA replication.

Bacteria need to copy and repair their genetic material to grow, multiply, and survive.

Gemifloxacin targets two important bacterial enzymes involved in these processes: DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV.

By blocking these enzymes, Factive prevents bacteria from properly managing their DNA, eventually causing bacterial cell death.

Blocks Bacterial DNA Gyrase

DNA gyrase is an enzyme that helps bacteria manage the twisting and coiling of their DNA.

During bacterial replication, DNA must be unwound and copied so that new bacterial cells can form.

Gemifloxacin interferes with DNA gyrase, preventing bacteria from properly controlling their DNA structure during replication.

This disrupts an essential process required for bacterial survival.

By interfering with DNA gyrase, Factive helps stop susceptible bacteria from reproducing and contributing to the infection.

Inhibits Topoisomerase IV

Topoisomerase IV is another bacterial enzyme involved in DNA replication and cell division.

After bacterial DNA has been copied, topoisomerase IV helps separate the newly formed DNA molecules so they can be distributed into new bacterial cells.

Gemifloxacin blocks this enzyme, interfering with the separation of bacterial DNA.

As a result, bacteria cannot complete normal cell division and replication.

Kills Susceptible Bacteria

Factive is a bactericidal antibiotic, meaning it kills susceptible bacteria rather than simply slowing their growth.

By disrupting DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, gemifloxacin causes damage to bacterial DNA and interferes with essential cellular processes.

These effects prevent the bacteria from surviving and multiplying.

As the bacterial infection comes under control, your body’s inflammatory response may gradually decrease, allowing the affected lung and airway tissues to recover.

How Does Factive Help Treat Respiratory Infections?

Factive works against susceptible bacteria responsible for certain respiratory tract infections.

Its antibacterial action helps:

  • Reduce Bacterial Growth: Prevents susceptible bacteria from multiplying in the lungs and airways.
  • Treat the Underlying Infection: Targets the bacteria responsible for bacterial pneumonia or certain chronic bronchitis exacerbations.
  • Support Symptom Improvement: As the infection responds to treatment, fever, coughing, and respiratory discomfort may gradually improve.
  • Reduce Infection-Related Inflammation: Controlling the bacterial infection can help decrease inflammation in affected respiratory tissues.
  • Support Recovery: Effective treatment allows your body to recover from the infection and restore normal respiratory function.

Factive does not directly open the airways like a bronchodilator or immediately stop coughing like a cough suppressant.

Instead, its primary role is to eliminate susceptible bacteria contributing to the respiratory infection.

How Long Does Factive Take to Work?

Factive begins acting against susceptible bacteria after you take the medication.

However, noticeable improvements in your symptoms may take several days.

Some people may begin experiencing reduced fever, coughing, or chest discomfort within the first 48 to 72 hours of effective antibiotic treatment.

The time needed for improvement depends on the type of infection, the bacteria involved, the severity of the illness, and your overall health.

For community-acquired pneumonia, recovery may take longer even after the bacteria have been controlled. Symptoms such as fatigue and coughing can persist while the lungs heal.

Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate treatment duration.

The usual adult dosage is 320 mg once daily, with a treatment course of five or seven days depending on the infection and the bacteria involved.

Do not take additional tablets or extend treatment without medical advice.

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, become worse, or include increasing breathing difficulties, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Important Information About Factive

Factive is intended to treat bacterial infections and should not be used for viral illnesses such as the common cold, influenza, or viral bronchitis.

Taking antibiotics when they are not needed can increase the risk of antibiotic resistance and unwanted side effects.

Factive belongs to the fluoroquinolone antibiotic class, which carries important safety warnings.

These medications can cause serious reactions involving the tendons, nerves, muscles, joints, and central nervous system. Some reactions may be prolonged or potentially irreversible.

Factive may also worsen muscle weakness in people with myasthenia gravis and should be avoided in patients with this condition.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney disease, a history of tendon problems, seizures, nerve damage, heart rhythm disorders, or other significant medical conditions.

Factive helps treat certain bacterial respiratory infections by blocking enzymes that bacteria need to copy and repair their DNA. Using the medication only when appropriate and following your healthcare provider’s instructions can help treat susceptible infections while reducing unnecessary antibiotic exposure.

Factive is a prescription antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections affecting the lungs and respiratory tract, including community-acquired pneumonia and acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, where approved.

Factive belongs to a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It works by preventing bacteria from copying and repairing their DNA, eventually causing bacterial cell death.

Factive is available as an oral tablet that is usually taken once daily, with or without food.

The recommended dosage and treatment duration depend on the type of bacterial infection, your kidney function, medical history, and response to treatment.

Take Factive exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not increase your dose, take additional tablets, or continue treatment longer than recommended.

How to Take Factive Tablets

Follow these steps to take Factive safely and correctly:

  1. Follow your prescribed dosage: Take the amount of Factive recommended by your healthcare provider. The usual adult dose is 320 mg once daily.
  2. Take the tablet by mouth: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet unless your pharmacist confirms that doing so is appropriate.
  3. Take with or without food: Factive can be taken with meals or on an empty stomach. If you experience mild stomach discomfort, taking it with food may help.
  4. Choose a consistent time: Take Factive at approximately the same time each day. Following a regular schedule helps you remember your medication and maintain consistent antibiotic exposure.
  5. Drink enough fluids: Stay adequately hydrated during treatment unless your healthcare provider has recommended limiting your fluid intake.
  6. Separate certain medications and supplements: Some products containing minerals can reduce the amount of gemifloxacin absorbed into your bloodstream. Follow the recommended spacing instructions.
  7. Follow the prescribed treatment duration: Take Factive for the number of days recommended by your healthcare provider, even if you begin feeling better before the treatment course ends, unless you develop a serious reaction or are instructed to stop.
  8. Monitor your symptoms: Contact your healthcare provider if your infection does not improve, becomes worse, or you experience unusual side effects.

Recommended Dosage and Treatment Duration

The usual recommended adult dosage of Factive is 320 mg taken orally once daily.

Treatment duration depends on the type of bacterial respiratory infection being treated.

Bacterial infection Usual adult dosage Treatment duration
Community-acquired pneumonia 320 mg once daily 5 or 7 days, depending on the bacteria involved
Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis 320 mg once daily 5 days

Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage if you have significantly reduced kidney function.

Do not change your dosage or extend your antibiotic treatment without medical advice.

Important Tips When Taking Factive

Take Factive at the Same Time Every Day

Factive is generally taken once every 24 hours.

Taking the medication at approximately the same time each day helps maintain consistent antibiotic levels in your body.

You can choose a time that works with your daily routine, such as breakfast or dinner.

If you have difficulty remembering your medication, consider using a daily reminder or medication schedule.

Avoid taking extra tablets to make up for doses you have missed.

Take Factive With or Without Food

You can take Factive with meals or on an empty stomach.

Food generally does not have a clinically important effect on the absorption of gemifloxacin.

If the medication causes mild nausea or stomach discomfort, taking it with a meal may make it easier to tolerate.

Swallow the tablet whole with water, and maintain adequate fluid intake throughout treatment.

Separate Factive From Certain Medications and Supplements

Some medications and supplements contain minerals that can bind to gemifloxacin in your digestive tract.

This may reduce the amount of antibiotic your body absorbs and make treatment less effective.

Products that may interfere with Factive include:

  • Antacids: Products containing magnesium or aluminum, commonly used for heartburn and indigestion.
  • Mineral Supplements: Supplements containing zinc, iron, or other minerals that may interfere with antibiotic absorption.
  • Multivitamins: Certain multivitamins contain zinc or other minerals that can reduce gemifloxacin absorption.
  • Sucralfate: A medication used to treat certain stomach and intestinal ulcers.
  • Didanosine Products: Certain formulations containing buffering agents may interfere with gemifloxacin absorption.

Factive should generally be taken at least 2 hours before or 3 hours after antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, sucralfate, didanosine buffered formulations, or supplements containing zinc or iron.

These spacing instructions help prevent interactions that may reduce the effectiveness of the antibiotic.

Tell your healthcare provider or pharmacist about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take.

Your pharmacist can help you determine the appropriate timing for each product.

Complete the Prescribed Antibiotic Treatment

Continue taking Factive for the full treatment period prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms improve after a few days.

Feeling better does not always mean the bacterial infection has completely cleared.

Stopping antibiotics earlier than prescribed may allow surviving bacteria to multiply, causing symptoms to return.

However, if you develop a serious side effect, do not continue taking Factive simply to finish the treatment course. Stop the medication and seek medical advice immediately when appropriate.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

If you forget to take Factive, take the missed dose as soon as you remember.

However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed tablet and continue with your usual dosing schedule.

Do not take two tablets together or take extra medication to make up for a missed dose.

If you are unsure whether to take a missed dose, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

How Long Does Factive Take to Work?

Factive begins working against susceptible bacteria after you take the medication.

However, it may take a few days before you notice a clear improvement in your symptoms.

Some people begin to experience reduced fever, coughing, and chest discomfort within 48 to 72 hours of effective treatment.

Recovery from pneumonia may take longer, particularly if you have other respiratory conditions or a more severe infection.

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or become worse, contact your healthcare provider.

Seek urgent medical attention if you develop severe difficulty breathing, worsening chest pain, or confusion.

Important Safety Precautions

Factive belongs to the fluoroquinolone antibiotic class, which can cause serious side effects in some individuals.

Stop taking Factive and contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience tendon pain or swelling, burning or tingling sensations, numbness, unusual muscle weakness, or significant changes in mood or thinking.

These symptoms may indicate serious reactions involving the tendons, nerves, or nervous system.

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics may also cause severe allergic reactions and potentially serious diarrhea associated with Clostridioides difficile infection.

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of your face or throat, or other signs of a severe allergic reaction.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney disease, tendon problems, myasthenia gravis, seizures, or heart rhythm disorders before taking Factive.

Always take Factive exactly as prescribed. Following your recommended dosing schedule, separating the antibiotic from interacting supplements, and reporting serious side effects promptly can help support effective treatment while reducing medication-related risks.

Common Side Effects of Factive (Gemifloxacin Mesylate):

  • Blurred vision
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Headache
  • Insomnia or trouble sleeping
  • Lightheadedness
  • Nausea

Serious Side Effects of Factive (Gemifloxacin Mesylate):

  • Chest pain
  • Fainting
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Oral thrush
  • Severe dizziness
  • Signs of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (persistent diarrhea, stomach pain or cramping, blood, or mucus in the stool)
  • Signs of kidney problems (changes in urine output)
  • Signs of liver problems (persistent nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowish eyes, and skin)
  • Signs of tear or break in the aorta (sudden or severe pain in the chest or stomach, shortness of breath, cough)
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding

Factive (Gemifloxacin Mesylate) is available in the following forms and strength:

Gemifloxacin Mesylate: Tablet

  • 320 mg

Before taking Factive, tell your healthcare provider about any medical conditions, medication allergies, and prescription or over-the-counter products you use.

Factive is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial respiratory infections, including community-acquired pneumonia and acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, where approved.

Although Factive can effectively treat susceptible bacterial infections, it may cause serious side effects in some people. These reactions can affect the tendons, nerves, muscles, heart, and central nervous system.

Some fluoroquinolone-related reactions may occur soon after treatment begins and may continue even after the medication is stopped.

Your healthcare provider will determine whether Factive is appropriate based on your infection, medical history, and available treatment alternatives.

Allergic Reactions and Hypersensitivity

Do not take Factive if you are allergic to gemifloxacin, other quinolone or fluoroquinolone antibiotics, or any ingredient in the medication.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, or moxifloxacin.

Allergic reactions may occur after the first dose or during treatment.

Possible symptoms include:

  • Skin Rash: Redness, itching, or raised patches may develop on your skin.
  • Hives: Raised, itchy bumps may appear suddenly.
  • Facial Swelling: Your lips, eyelids, face, or tongue may become swollen.
  • Breathing Problems: You may experience wheezing, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing.
  • Dizziness: Severe allergic reactions may cause lightheadedness or fainting.

In rare cases, Factive may cause anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that requires emergency treatment.

Stop taking Factive and seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of your throat or tongue, or other signs of a severe allergic reaction.

Tendon Inflammation and Tendon Rupture

Factive may increase the risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture.

Tendons are strong tissues that connect muscles to bones. Tendinitis occurs when a tendon becomes inflamed, while tendon rupture occurs when a tendon partially or completely tears.

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics can damage tendons, particularly the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle. However, tendons in the shoulder, hand, or other parts of the body may also be affected.

Tendon problems can develop within hours or days of starting treatment and may occur several months after completing the medication.

The risk is higher in adults over 60 years old, people taking corticosteroids, and individuals who have received kidney, heart, or lung transplants.

Warning signs include:

  • Sudden tendon pain or tenderness.
  • Swelling around a joint or tendon.
  • Difficulty moving the affected area.
  • A snapping or popping sensation near a tendon.
  • Sudden weakness or difficulty bearing weight.

If you experience tendon pain, swelling, or inflammation, stop taking Factive immediately, avoid exercising the affected area, and contact your healthcare provider.

Seek urgent medical attention if you suspect a tendon rupture.

Peripheral Neuropathy and Nerve Damage

Factive may cause peripheral neuropathy, a condition involving damage to nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral nerves help control sensation, movement, and certain automatic body functions.

Damage to these nerves may cause unusual sensations or muscle weakness, particularly in the hands, arms, feet, and legs.

Possible symptoms include:

  • Tingling: A pins-and-needles sensation in your hands or feet.
  • Numbness: Reduced feeling or loss of sensation.
  • Burning Pain: Unusual burning or sharp nerve pain.
  • Muscle Weakness: Difficulty moving or controlling certain muscles.
  • Sensitivity Changes: Difficulty sensing touch, temperature, or pain normally.

Peripheral neuropathy may begin soon after starting Factive and can sometimes become permanent.

Stop taking Factive and contact your healthcare provider immediately if you develop tingling, numbness, burning pain, or unexplained weakness.

Do not restart the medication unless your healthcare provider determines that it is safe.

Seizures and Central Nervous System Effects

Factive may affect the central nervous system, which includes your brain and spinal cord.

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics have been associated with seizures and other neurological or psychiatric reactions.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have epilepsy, a history of seizures, or another condition affecting your nervous system.

Factive may also cause central nervous system reactions in people without a previous history of neurological problems.

Possible symptoms include:

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness.
  • Tremors or unusual shaking.
  • Difficulty sleeping.
  • Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness.
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating.
  • Hallucinations or unusual changes in perception.
  • Seizures.

Certain medications, including some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may increase the risk of central nervous system effects when taken with fluoroquinolones.

Stop taking Factive and seek immediate medical advice if you develop serious changes in thinking, behavior, or neurological symptoms.

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience a seizure.

Myasthenia Gravis

Factive should not be used by individuals with a known history of myasthenia gravis.

Myasthenia gravis is a condition that causes muscle weakness because communication between nerves and muscles is disrupted.

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics, including gemifloxacin, may worsen muscle weakness in people with this condition.

In severe cases, worsening muscle weakness can affect the muscles responsible for breathing and swallowing.

Symptoms may include increasing muscle fatigue, drooping eyelids, double vision, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath.

Because these complications can be life-threatening, Factive should be avoided in patients with myasthenia gravis.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have this condition so that a different antibiotic can be considered. 

Kidney Disease

Tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney disease or reduced kidney function before taking Factive.

Your kidneys help remove gemifloxacin and its breakdown products from your body.

If your kidney function is significantly reduced, the medication may remain in your system longer than expected.

This can increase antibiotic exposure and potentially raise the risk of side effects.

Your healthcare provider may assess your kidney function using blood tests before prescribing Factive.

For adults with a creatinine clearance of 40 mL/min or less, the prescribing information recommends reducing the usual dosage to 160 mg once daily.

Do not adjust your medication without medical advice.

Tell your healthcare provider if you receive dialysis or have experienced kidney problems while taking antibiotics.

Liver Disease

If you have liver disease, tell your healthcare provider before taking Factive.

Although gemifloxacin does not generally require dosage adjustments solely because of liver impairment, your healthcare provider should still review your medical history.

In rare cases, fluoroquinolone antibiotics have been associated with liver injury.

Symptoms of possible liver problems include:

  • Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes: Also called jaundice.
  • Dark Urine: Urine may appear unusually dark.
  • Persistent Nausea: You may experience ongoing stomach discomfort.
  • Abdominal Pain: Particularly pain in the upper right side of your abdomen.
  • Unusual Fatigue: You may feel significantly weaker or more tired than normal.

Stop taking Factive and contact your healthcare provider immediately if you develop jaundice or other signs of significant liver injury.

Your healthcare provider may recommend additional testing to evaluate liver function.

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Deficiency

Tell your healthcare provider if you have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency before taking Factive.

G6PD deficiency is an inherited condition that makes red blood cells more vulnerable to damage from certain medications, infections, and other triggers.

Some antibiotics may increase the risk of hemolysis, a condition in which red blood cells break down faster than the body can replace them.

Although the risk varies between medications, caution is appropriate when prescribing gemifloxacin to someone with G6PD deficiency.

Possible symptoms of hemolysis include sudden fatigue, weakness, pale skin, yellowing of the eyes, dark urine, and shortness of breath.

Tell your healthcare provider about any previous episodes of hemolytic anemia or unusual reactions to antibiotics.

Seek prompt medical attention if you develop symptoms suggesting red blood cell breakdown.

QT Prolongation and Heart Rhythm Problems

Factive may affect the electrical signals that control your heartbeat.

In some people, gemifloxacin can prolong the QT interval, a measurement of the time your heart takes to reset electrically between beats.

A prolonged QT interval may increase the risk of serious abnormal heart rhythms, including a potentially dangerous arrhythmia called torsades de pointes.

Factive should generally be avoided in people with known QT prolongation, uncorrected low potassium or magnesium levels, or those taking certain antiarrhythmic medications.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of irregular heartbeat, fainting episodes, heart disease, or electrolyte imbalances.

Possible symptoms of an abnormal heart rhythm include:

  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
  • Unusual fluttering in your chest.
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness.
  • Fainting or nearly fainting.
  • Sudden weakness or chest discomfort.

Certain heart rhythm medications, including amiodarone, sotalol, quinidine, and procainamide, may increase the risk of QT-related complications.

Other medications that affect heart rhythm may also require caution.

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience fainting, a persistent irregular heartbeat, or chest pain during treatment.

Your healthcare provider may recommend an electrocardiogram (ECG) or electrolyte testing if you have relevant risk factors. 

Drug Interactions

Factive may interact with certain medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products.

Some interactions can reduce the amount of gemifloxacin absorbed into your bloodstream, while others may increase the risk of side effects.

Products that require special attention include:

  • Antacids: Products containing magnesium or aluminum may reduce gemifloxacin absorption.
  • Iron and Zinc Supplements: These minerals can bind to the antibiotic in your digestive tract and make it less effective.
  • Multivitamins: Multivitamins containing certain minerals may interfere with antibiotic absorption.
  • Sucralfate: This medication, used to treat certain stomach ulcers, may reduce the amount of gemifloxacin absorbed.
  • Heart Rhythm Medications: Certain medications may increase the risk of QT prolongation.
  • Corticosteroids: Oral or injected corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may increase the risk of tendon injury.
  • Warfarin: Factive may affect blood-clotting test results and increase bleeding risk in some patients taking warfarin.

For interacting antacids and mineral supplements, take Factive at least 2 hours before or 3 hours after these products. Follow specific instructions for sucralfate and other prescribed medicines.

Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can help you establish a medication schedule that reduces the risk of interactions.

Do not start, stop, or change another medication without medical advice. 

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before taking Factive.

The safety of gemifloxacin during pregnancy has not been adequately established.

Older prescribing information classified Factive as a pregnancy category C medication. However, this letter classification is outdated and has been replaced by more detailed information about pregnancy-related risks.

Because information about gemifloxacin exposure during human pregnancy is limited, your healthcare provider will determine whether treatment is necessary and whether a better-studied antibiotic is available.

Factive should generally be used during pregnancy only when the expected benefits justify the potential risks.

If you are breastfeeding, tell your healthcare provider before starting treatment.

It is not known whether gemifloxacin passes into human breast milk in clinically significant amounts.

Your healthcare provider will consider the importance of antibiotic treatment, potential risks to your baby, and whether another antibiotic would be more appropriate.

Do not stop breastfeeding or discontinue a prescribed antibiotic without discussing your options with your healthcare provider.

Photosensitivity and Sun Exposure

Factive may increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

This reaction is called photosensitivity.

Photosensitivity can make your skin more likely to develop sunburn-like symptoms after exposure to sunlight or artificial UV sources.

Possible symptoms include:

  • Skin Redness: Exposed areas may become unusually red or inflamed.
  • Burning Sensation: Your skin may feel hot, painful, or irritated.
  • Itching: Sun-exposed skin may become itchy or uncomfortable.
  • Blistering: Severe reactions may cause fluid-filled blisters or peeling.

To reduce your risk, avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds while taking Factive.

Wear protective clothing, seek shade when possible, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

If you develop a significant sunburn-like reaction or unusual skin rash, stop taking Factive and contact your healthcare provider.

Serious Skin Reactions

Factive may cause skin rashes, and some reactions can be serious.

Gemifloxacin has been associated with a higher frequency of rashes in certain patient groups, particularly younger women.

Although many reactions are mild, serious skin reactions require immediate medical evaluation.

Possible warning signs include:

  • A widespread or rapidly spreading rash.
  • Skin blistering or peeling.
  • Painful sores inside your mouth.
  • Fever accompanied by a rash.
  • Swelling of your face or other unusual allergic symptoms.

Stop taking Factive and contact your healthcare provider immediately if you develop a new skin rash.

Seek emergency medical attention if the rash is accompanied by blistering, peeling skin, mouth sores, or difficulty breathing.

Clostridioides difficile-Associated Diarrhea

Factive may cause antibiotic-associated diarrhea, including an infection caused by Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile).

Antibiotics can disturb the normal balance of bacteria in your intestines.

When beneficial bacteria are reduced, C. difficile may multiply and release toxins that cause inflammation in the colon.

This condition may develop during antibiotic treatment or several weeks after the medication has been discontinued.

Possible symptoms include:

  • Frequent watery diarrhea.
  • Persistent abdominal cramps.
  • Fever.
  • Nausea or loss of appetite.
  • Blood or mucus in the stool in severe cases.
  • Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness or reduced urination.

Mild stomach discomfort or occasional loose stools may occur with antibiotics. However, persistent or severe diarrhea should not be ignored.

Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you develop frequent watery diarrhea, significant abdominal pain, or fever.

Do not use anti-diarrheal medication without medical advice if C. difficile infection is suspected.

Blood Sugar Changes

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics may cause changes in blood sugar levels, including hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

These reactions may be more concerning in people with diabetes, particularly those using insulin or medications that lower blood glucose.

Symptoms of low blood sugar may include sweating, shaking, sudden hunger, dizziness, confusion, and weakness.

High blood sugar may cause increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.

If you have diabetes, your healthcare provider may recommend checking your blood glucose more frequently while taking Factive.

If you develop symptoms of low blood sugar, follow your prescribed hypoglycemia treatment plan and seek immediate medical advice. Severe confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness require emergency treatment.

Use in Children and Adolescents

Factive is not recommended for children and adolescents younger than 18 years of age.

The safety and effectiveness of gemifloxacin have not been established in this age group.

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics may affect developing joints and cartilage, and their use in younger patients requires careful consideration.

Factive is intended for adults aged 18 years and older when prescribed for an appropriate bacterial infection.

Do not give Factive to a child or teenager unless a qualified specialist has specifically evaluated the situation and determined that treatment is appropriate.

Medical Tests and Laboratory Monitoring

Tell your healthcare provider about Factive before undergoing medical tests or laboratory investigations.

Depending on your medical history, certain tests may be recommended during treatment.

For example, your healthcare provider may monitor kidney function if you have existing kidney disease or take medications that affect your kidneys.

People taking warfarin may require additional blood tests to monitor their international normalized ratio (INR), which measures how long blood takes to clot.

Patients with diabetes may need more frequent blood glucose monitoring because fluoroquinolone antibiotics can cause changes in blood sugar levels.

Although certain antibiotics can interfere with some laboratory tests, interference with urine glucose testing is not a well-established, routine warning specific to Factive.

If you are scheduled for any medical testing, tell your healthcare provider and laboratory staff that you are taking gemifloxacin.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Contact your healthcare provider if your respiratory symptoms do not improve, your infection becomes worse, or you develop unusual side effects during treatment.

Stop taking Factive and seek immediate medical advice if you experience tendon pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, serious changes in mood or thinking, or a new skin rash.

Seek emergency medical attention if you develop difficulty breathing, swelling of your throat, fainting, seizures, severe blistering skin reactions, or symptoms of a serious heart rhythm problem.

Factive should only be used for bacterial infections when your healthcare provider determines that treatment is appropriate. It does not treat viral illnesses such as the common cold or influenza.

Factive can effectively treat certain bacterial respiratory infections, but it carries important risks that require careful use. Following your prescribed dosage, checking potential drug interactions, and recognizing serious side effects can help reduce treatment-related complications.

Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Factive?

It is generally best to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Factive. Factive is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial respiratory infections, including community-acquired pneumonia and acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis. Although alcohol does not have a well-established direct interaction with gemifloxacin, drinking alcohol may worsen some side effects associated with the medication. These side effects may include dizziness, nausea, headache, stomach discomfort, and difficulty concentrating. Alcohol may also contribute to dehydration and interfere with your recovery from a bacterial infection. If you are already experiencing fatigue, fever, or breathing discomfort, drinking alcohol may make you feel worse. Avoid alcohol if you experience dizziness, nausea, or other side effects while taking Factive. If you are unsure whether drinking alcohol is safe with your medical condition or other medications, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Can I Cut My Factive Medication in Half?

Do not cut, crush, or split Factive tablets without first consulting your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Factive contains gemifloxacin mesylate and is typically available as a 320 mg oral tablet. The usual adult dosage is 320 mg once daily, although people with significantly reduced kidney function may require a lower dose. Factive tablets are film-coated, and the standard 320 mg tablet is not intended to be divided routinely. Splitting an unscored tablet may result in uneven pieces, making it difficult to take an accurate dose. If you have trouble swallowing tablets or need a lower dosage, ask your pharmacist whether a suitable alternative is available. Do not divide a 320 mg tablet to create a 160 mg dose unless your healthcare provider or pharmacist has specifically confirmed that this is appropriate. Always take Factive according to your prescribed dosage. Changing the tablet or taking an inaccurate dose may reduce treatment effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.

Does Factive Cause Insomnia?

Yes, Factive may cause insomnia or difficulty sleeping in some people. Factive belongs to a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones, which may affect the central nervous system. These effects can sometimes interfere with normal sleep patterns. Some people may experience difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, or feeling restless while taking the medication. Other nervous system-related side effects may include dizziness, headache, anxiety, agitation, and unusual dreams. Not everyone who takes Factive will experience sleep problems. However, certain individuals may be more sensitive to its effects. If you develop mild insomnia during treatment, maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid caffeine late in the day. Your healthcare provider may also recommend changing the time you take Factive. Do not change your dosage or stop treatment without medical advice unless you develop a serious reaction. Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you experience severe insomnia, confusion, hallucinations, significant anxiety, or unusual changes in mood or behavior. These symptoms may indicate a more serious central nervous system reaction.

What Is the Route of Administration for Gemifloxacin?

Gemifloxacin mesylate is administered orally, meaning it is taken by mouth. Factive is available as a film-coated oral tablet containing 320 mg of gemifloxacin. The medication belongs to a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones and is used to treat certain bacterial infections affecting the respiratory tract. The usual recommended dosage for adults is 320 mg taken once daily, although your healthcare provider may adjust the dose based on your kidney function and other medical factors. Factive tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. You can take the medication with or without food. After swallowing the tablet, gemifloxacin is absorbed through your digestive tract and enters your bloodstream. It then reaches tissues affected by susceptible bacteria, including the lungs and respiratory tract. Gemifloxacin works by blocking bacterial enzymes called DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. These enzymes are essential for bacterial DNA replication and repair. By interfering with these processes, Factive kills susceptible bacteria and helps control the infection. Take the medication at approximately the same time each day and follow the prescribed treatment duration. Certain antacids, vitamins, and mineral supplements can reduce gemifloxacin absorption. Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can explain how to separate these products from your antibiotic dose. Factive is an oral antibiotic and is not administered as an injection, inhaler, or topical medication. Follow your healthcare provider’s dosing instructions to help ensure safe and effective treatment. 

REVIEWS

Additional Information Book
Generic name:

Gemifloxacin Mesylate

Formulation:

Tablet

Strength(s):

320mg

Quantities Available:

50

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How to Order

How much Factive can I order at once from a Canadian pharmacy?

When ordering Factive (gemifloxacin mesylate) from a Canadian pharmacy, you can typically purchase up to a 90-day supply at one time, which is common for prescription medications to ensure adequate management of chronic conditions without frequent refills.

Here’s what you need to know:

Dosage and Quantity: Factive is commonly prescribed in a dosage of 320 mg, taken once daily. For a 90-day supply, this means you would order 90 tablets (90 days x 1 tablet per day).

Do you sell gemifloxacin mesylate?

Yes, we sell gemifloxacin mesylate on our website. You can enjoy low prices when you order through us. To purchase gemifloxacin mesylate, you will need a valid prescription from your healthcare provider. We require this prescription to dispense the medication safely and appropriately. You can submit your prescription by mailing it to us, faxing it, or uploading it through your online account.

Do you offer shipping of Factive (gemifloxacin mesylate) to the United States?

Yes, we ship Factive (gemifloxacin mesylate) to both the United States and Puerto Rico.

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Online Pharmacies Canada has provided information from third parties intended to increase awareness and does not contain all the information about Factive (Gemifloxacin Mesylate). Talk to your doctor or other qualified medical practitioners for medical attention or advice, or if you have any concerns about Factive (Gemifloxacin Mesylate).