Indications
Factive generically known as Gemifloxacin mesylate is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic medication used to treat various bacterial infections. It is prescribed to adults over the age of 18 for treating bronchitis, pneumonia, and bacterial sinusitis. It belongs to a class of antibiotics that work by inhibiting the growth and spread of bacteria.
Factive works by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in bacterial DNA synthesis, replication, and repair, ultimately leading to bacterial death. Specifically, Factive targets the DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes, which are essential for DNA replication in bacteria. By inhibiting these enzymes, Factive prevents bacteria from multiplying and spreading, allowing the body's natural immune system to eliminate the remaining bacteria.
Uses and Dosage
Gemifloxacin is an oral tablet that should be taken by mouth with or without food, as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, the medication is taken once daily, and the dosage and treatment length are based on your medical condition and how you respond to treatment. While taking the tablet, Swallow the tablet whole and drink plenty of fluids, unless your doctor advises otherwise. This is usually prescribed once daily or as prescribed by your physician.
Make sure to take the tablet at least two hours before or three hours after taking other products that may interfere with its effectiveness. To achieve the best results, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times each day, and try to take it at the same time every day to help you remember. Even if your symptoms disappear after a few days, continue taking Gemifloxacin until you have finished the full prescribed amount. Stopping the medication too soon may cause a relapse of the infection. Consult with your pharmacist to identify all the products that may interfere with Gemifloxacin.
Side Effect
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
Form and Strength
Factive (Gemifloxacin Mesylate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Gemifloxacin Mesylate: Tablet
- 320 mg
Caution
- Factive should not be used in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity to gemifloxacin, other quinolones, or any of the ingredients in the medication.
- Factive should be used with caution in patients with a history of seizures, liver or kidney disease, myasthenia gravis, or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, as these conditions may increase the risk of adverse effects.
- Factive may interact with certain medications, including antacids and other drugs that contain magnesium, aluminum, calcium, or iron. Patients should be advised not to take Factive within 2 hours of these medications to avoid reduced absorption.
- Factive is a pregnancy category C medication and should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. It is not known whether Factive is excreted in human milk, so nursing mothers should use caution while taking this medication. As with all medications, follow your healthcare provider's instructions and discuss any questions or concerns with them.
- Factive may cause photosensitivity reactions, so patients should be advised to avoid excessive sunlight or UV light exposure and to use protective clothing and sunscreen while taking this medication.
- Factive may cause serious and potentially life-threatening adverse reactions, including anaphylaxis, serious skin reactions, and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Patients should be monitored closely for signs of these adverse reactions.
- Factive may cause QT prolongation, which can lead to an increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with a history of QT prolongation, arrhythmias, or electrolyte imbalances should use caution while taking this medication.
- Factive should not be used in children under the age of 18 years old, as the safety and efficacy of the medication in this population have not been established.
- Factive may interfere with certain medical tests, including urine glucose tests, so patients should inform their healthcare provider that they are taking this medication before undergoing any medical tests. As with all medications, follow your healthcare provider's instructions and discuss any questions or concerns with them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drink alcohol while taking Factive?
Alcohol should be avoided while taking Factive, as it may increase the risk of certain adverse reactions.
Can I cut my Factive medication in half?
If you need to divide this medication, ask for assistance from a pharmacist.
Does Factive cause insomnia?
Yes, this medication may cause trouble sleeping.
What is the route of administration for gemifloxacin?
Gemifloxacin mesylate is a synthetic broad-spectrum antibacterial agent for oral administration.
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