Factive (Gemifloxacin Mesylate)

Description

Indications

Gemifloxacin is indicated for the treatment of pneumonia. It may also be employed in the management of bronchitis, although alternative therapeutic options should be considered before utilizing gemifloxacin for this particular condition. Belonging to the class of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, gemifloxacin operates by effectively eradicating bacterial pathogens responsible for causing infections.

Uses and Dosage

Gemifloxacin is administered orally in the form of tablets. Generally, it is taken once daily for a duration of 5 to 7 days, with or without food. The duration of treatment is contingent upon the specific infection being treated, as determined by your healthcare provider. Adherence to a consistent dosing schedule is advised, taking gemifloxacin at approximately the same time each day.

Concomitant consumption of gemifloxacin with dairy products such as milk, yogurt, or calcium-fortified juices should be avoided individually. It is acceptable to take gemifloxacin alongside a meal that includes these foods or beverages.

The tablets should be swallowed whole with an ample amount of water, without being split, chewed, or crushed.

During the initial days of gemifloxacin treatment, notable improvement in symptoms is expected. If there is no improvement or if symptoms worsen, contact your doctor.

Completing the entire prescribed course of gemifloxacin is essential, even if you start to feel better. Unless specific serious side effects occur, discontinuation of gemifloxacin should not be done without consulting your doctor. Premature cessation or skipping of doses may result in incomplete eradication of the infection, potentially leading to antibiotic resistance in bacteria.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• diarrhea
• nausea
• stomach pain
• vomiting
• unusual tiredness

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• severe diarrhea
• rash
• hives
• itching
• peeling or blistering of the skin
• fever
• swelling of the eyes, face, mouth, lips, tongue, throat, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• hoarseness or throat tightness
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• ongoing or worsening cough
• yellowing of the skin or eyes; pale skin; dark urine; or light colored stool
• extreme thirst or hunger; pale skin; feeling shaky or trembling; fast or fluttering heartbeat; sweating; frequent urination; trembling; blurred vision; or unusual anxiety
• fainting or loss of consciousness
• sudden pain in the chest, stomach, or back

Caution

Prior to initiating gemifloxacin treatment, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any known allergies to gemifloxacin, other quinolone antibiotics, or any other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can elicit allergic reactions or other complications.

Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have diabetes, joint or tendon issues, kidney problems, mental or mood disorders, a specific muscle condition (myasthenia gravis), nerve problems, a seizure disorder, blood vessel problems, high blood pressure, or certain genetic conditions (Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome).

Gemifloxacin has the potential to cause a heart rhythm condition known as QT prolongation. In rare cases, QT prolongation can lead to serious (and occasionally fatal) fast or irregular heartbeat, as well as other symptoms requiring immediate medical attention, including severe dizziness and fainting.

The risk of QT prolongation may be heightened if you have certain medical conditions or are taking medications that can also cause QT prolongation. Having low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood can increase the risk of QT prolongation. This risk may be further amplified if you are using specific medications (such as diuretics or “water pills”) or if you are experiencing conditions like severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.

This medication may rarely lead to significant changes in blood sugar levels, particularly in individuals with diabetes. Monitor your blood sugar regularly as instructed and share the results with your doctor. Be vigilant for symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst and urination, as well as symptoms of low blood sugar, such as sudden sweating, shaking, rapid heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling in the hands or feet. Carrying glucose tablets or gel to address low blood sugar is recommended as a good practice. In the absence of these reliable sources, rapidly raise your blood sugar by consuming a quick source of sugar such as table sugar, honey, candy, fruit juice, or non-diet soda. Promptly notify your doctor about any reactions or the use of this product. To prevent low blood sugar, maintain regular meal schedules and avoid skipping meals. If any reaction occurs, your doctor may need to switch you to an alternative antibiotic or adjust your diabetes medications.

This drug may induce dizziness. Alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate this effect. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you can do so safely.

The use of this medication may heighten sensitivity to sunlight. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience sunburn or observe skin blisters or redness.

Gemifloxacin may diminish the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine. Inform your healthcare professional about the use of gemifloxacin before receiving any immunizations or vaccinations.

Children may have a higher risk of joint or tendon problems when using this medication. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Older adults may face an increased risk of tendon problems, QT prolongation, and a sudden tear or rupture in the main blood vessel (aorta).

During pregnancy, this medication should only be used if clearly necessary. Consult your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits.

This drug is excreted in small amounts into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Factive is available in the following forms and strengths:

• gemifloxacin tablet:
  • 320mg

FAQ

What generation is Factive?

Factive is a fourth generation, oral fluoroquinolone antibiotic used in the therapy of mild-to-moderate respiratory tract infections caused by susceptible organisms.

Can Factive treat urinary tract infection?

Factive is a flouroquinolon with an excellent in vitro activity against many community acquired bacteria which cause respiratory or urinary infections.

Resources

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548790/#:~:text=Gemifloxacin%20is%20a%20fourth%20generation,infections%20caused%20by%20susceptible%20organisms
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20077882/#:~:text=Gemifloxacin%20is%20a%20flouroquinolon%20with,cause%20respiratory%20or%20urinary%20infections
3. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604014.html
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-91447/factive-oral/details
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/gemifloxacin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20064025?p=1
6. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/factive.html