Indications
Noroxin is a prescription antibiotic drug used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections and prostatitis. It contains an active ingredient called norfloxacin. Norfloxacin belongs to the class of drugs known as fluoroquinolone antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth.
Noroxin should be used only to treat bacterial infections and not for viral infections like the common cold or flu. Before using Noroxin or any other medication, consult your doctor or healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you.
Uses and Dosage
Norfloxacin is available in tablet form and should be taken orally as directed by your doctor, typically twice a day (every 12 hours). Take the tablet with a full glass of water and avoid having any food or dairy products (such as milk or yogurt) within 2 hours before or 1 hour after taking Norfloxacin.
To ensure its effectiveness, take Norfloxacin at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking other products that may lower its effectiveness, such as quinapril, sucralfate, vitamins/minerals (including iron, zinc), and products that contain magnesium, aluminum, or calcium (such as antacids, didanosine solution, calcium-enriched juice), among others. It is advised that you speak with your pharmacist about all the products you take.
Norfloxacin may increase and/or make the effects of caffeine last longer, so avoid taking large amounts of caffeine (such as coffee or energy drinks). For the best results, take this antibiotic at the same time every day. Continue taking Norfloxacin until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Noroxin (Norfloxacin):
- Back pain
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Lightheadedness
- Muscle and joint aches
- Nausea
- Rectal pain
- Stomach cramps
- Sweating
- Vaginal itching or discharge
Serious Side Effects of Noroxin (Norfloxacin):
- Anxiety
- Bruising near a tendon area
- Burning
- Convulsions (seizures)
- Depression
- Hallucinations
- Headaches with or without blurred vision
- Hear or feel a snap in a tendon area
- Inability to move or bear weight
- Lightheadedness
- Nervousness
- Nightmares
- Numbness
- Pain
- Paranoia
- Restlessness
- Suicidal thoughts or acts
- Swelling
- Tears or inflammation of tendons including the back of the ankle (achilles), shoulder, hand or other tendon sites
- Tendinitis or tendon rupture
- Tingling
- Tremors
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Weakness
Form and Strength
Noroxin (Norfloxacin) is available in the following forms and strength:
Norfloxacin: Tablet
- 400 mg
- 800 mg
Caution
- Norfloxacin may cause tendinitis (inflammation of a tendon) and tendon rupture (tearing of a tendon), especially in people over 60 years old, in those taking corticosteroid drugs, and in those who have received kidney, heart, or lung transplants.
- Norfloxacin may cause peripheral neuropathy (damage to the nerves that transmit information between the brain and spinal cord), which can lead to pain, burning, tingling, numbness, weakness, and sensitivity to light touch.
- Norfloxacin may cause central nervous system (CNS) effects, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, convulsions, and tremors.
- Norfloxacin may cause photosensitivity (an abnormal skin reaction to sunlight), which can lead to a rash, redness, itching, and blistering.
- Other side effects of Norfloxacin may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain or discomfort, headache, fever, chills, rash, and itching.
- Norfloxacin may cause gastrointestinal effects, such as constipation, gas, and bloating.
- Norfloxacin may cause allergic reactions, such as facial swelling, difficulty breathing, and hives.
- Norfloxacin may cause liver and kidney problems, which can lead to jaundice, abdominal pain, and changes in urine output.
- Norfloxacin may interact with other drugs, such as antacids, sucralfate, and iron supplements, which can reduce its effectiveness.
- Norfloxacin may not be safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it may harm the developing fetus or infant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Noroxin cause tendon damage?
Yes, in rare cases, Noroxin can cause tendon damage, particularly in people over the age of 60, those taking corticosteroids, and those with kidney, heart, or lung transplants.
Should Noroxin be taken with food or on an empty stomach?
Noroxin can be taken with or without food, but it should not be taken with dairy products, as they can reduce its effectiveness.
Can Noroxin be used to treat other types of infections?
Yes, Noroxin can be used to treat other types of infections caused by certain bacteria, such as gonorrhea and pneumonia.
Can Noroxin be taken by children?
Noroxin should not be taken by children, as it can cause damage to developing bones and cartilage.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Noroxin?
Avoid alcohol while taking Noroxin, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and nausea.
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